Need a new helmet?

Stop being cheap, ditch it and get a new one! Any blow or impact will lessen its protective value - and it doesn't have a lot to start with.

A motorcycle helmet should be discarded after a fall of 1m onto a hard surface and that's designed to take a high speed impact.

Just remember a £10 cycling helmet provides the same protection as a £50 one.

I will definitely look for crash replacement as a feature on the next helmet. Thanks for the suggestions

What about one of these (http://www.bikeradar.com/road/gear/category/protection/helmet-standard/p...) for £30 to get through the winter, not a lot of money if you take another spill on the ice.

It's my right to bring fact into an unprovable statement. But thanks.

Just in case you wanted some more helmet safety data. Here in the US there's a bike helmet safety institute (consumer non-profit) with more detailed recs on different scenarios where it's best to replace your helmet.

http://www.bhsi.org/replace.htm

Basically, if your helmet shell has visible damage after a crash the protective foam is likely crushed or cracked underneath so it won't be able to protect you in a subsequent crash. Apparently if you drop your helmet on pavement or other hard surfaces you can crack the foam too

Hope this helps. I always worry about wiping out on slippery leaves and ice but have been lucky so far [knocking on wood].

'My Kask Mojito possibly saved me a long stay in hospital or worse'

FTFY.

I had a similar crash in November. My Kask Mojito saved me a long stay in hospital or worse. I have to say the service I have received from Velo Brands the Kask importer has been brilliant. You send them the damaged helmet and they send you a replacement for half price.

Although the Mojito was brilliant, I upgraded to the Vertigo for an extra £20. The comfort and fit of the Kask helmets is superb. They may not be lightest, but they are worth every penny.

Cheers

Dave

I've been much happier and more comfortable riding since I got a Specialized Propero 2. The fit is fantastic, and it's on securely without really felling like I'm wearing anything.

Also, it's red and looks a lot like the pro helmets, both of which are proven by science to make you faster.

The polystyrene should deform to absorb some of the impact, even if you can't see it. If you are going to wear one there is no point wearing a faulty one.

@Miles253 - unless you're replacing your current one with the same or similar model then the most important thing is the fit. The head shape varies between brands, Bell fit me nicely (as does a mate's Kask) but Giro and Met don't feel as good.

Try on as many as you can, don't worry about the colour to begin with. When you've narrowed it down you might want to check those models online - remember, shops can't carry stock of every size of each model in all colours.

After reading this i suddenly realize i need a new helmet too...(slight thread hijack sorry!) any suggestions for <£100?

What moo said.

Definitely replace.

Check with the brand too.. Some manufacturers will give you a huge discount on a replacement helmet if you hand in your old damaged one. For example Specialized are known for their crash replacement policy.

I agree, don't take any chances with your helmet.

Yes definately - its not worth the risk of hidden damage.