Frequently asked questions for Helmets
FAQ’S for Helmet
It is important to choose a helmet that will fit you perfectly. Here are a few steps to help you find the helmet of the right size.
Step 1 – Use a measuring tape or string and measure around the head – above the eyebrows /ears (area usually the helmet covers). Make a note of the measurement.
Step 2 – Visit our store and ask for the preferable helmet of your size (as noted).
Step 3 – Try the helmet on and secure it with chin straps. The helmet should touch all parts of your head. Make sure there aren’t any gaps between pads and they are touching the cheeks directly.
Step 4 – Move your head up/down or left/right and check if the helmet doesn’t move independently or slip over your cheeks.
Step 5 – Open the straps, pull the helmet up. If getting in and out of the helmet is not requiring too much effort you have found the right fit,
Step 6 – Do a 10 seconds wear-check to see if the helmet is comfortable and safe to wear for a long duration.
Always try a helmet before buying.
To prolong the longevity of your helmet, it is important to store it safely when it is not in use. Here are the steps that you need to follow in order to store it properly:
Place the helmet in a padded helmet bag, or a helmet hook on the wall. If you do not have dedicated helmet hooks or a shelf in your garage to place your riding accessories, you can also use the carton that came with the helmet.
Make sure to store the helmet in shade away from moisture or excessive heat.
Cleaning the helmet at least once every 3-4 months prevents the deposition of dirt and grime, as well as prevents malodor. Here is how to clean the helmet both inside and out.
Steps for internal cleaning (optional):
Please check the helmet specifications to see whether the inner paddings and linings are detachable. If the inner parts are not detachable, do not apply force. You can start with the steps for external cleaning.
- Gently remove the inner padding and lining from within the helmet and soak in a warm water for 20-30 minutes. Do not use any detergent, or chemical solution in the water to prevent it from absorbing any strong odour.
- Gently wash off the paddings and liners with a rolling motion of the wrists.
- Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent damage
- Dry in shade
Steps for external cleaning:
- Use a damp cotton cloth to wash off the grime without applying too much pressure to prevent scratches.
- Allow the helmet to dry off naturally. Do not place the helmet directly under the sun or dry using a hot air blower or hair dryer to prevent any damage to the plastic parts.
- Once dry, use a soft cotton or microfiber cloth to wipe off any water stain from the surface.
Finally, put everything back together once the parts are dry. If you choose, you may apply a little amount of wax to polish the helmet, however this step is completely optional.
EPS stands for expanded polystyrene, which is a crushable foam also known as Styrofoam or commonly called thermocol.
It is used as a helmet inner lining with the outer shell (made of ABS, fibre-glass or carbon fiber) and is normally covered with a layer of fabric lining and padding.
EPS is very light in weight and responsible for absorbing the impact. It is what protects you in the event of a crash or impact on the helmet.
Though helmets do not have an ‘expiry date’, it is good to change your helmet every 3-5 years, depending on your usage, maintenance, wear and tear of the helmet. As the materials used and several components of the helmet, Parts like inner lining, belts, EPS and polycarbonate shell will have gradual decay due to more usage or passing time. Some of the other reasons to consider for changing your helmet are:
- If you had a crash or impact at speed of more than 80 Kmph. The damage to the helmet would be severe, even it doesn’t appear externally.
- If you have deep scratches on the decals; streaks that do not disappear with cleaning or rubbing.
- If you have unglued air vents or damaged clips, frayed and worn straps, etc.
Apart from the above, some factors like prolonged exposure to UV rays, bad weather can also impact the life of the helmet. A well-maintained helmet that hasn’t seen a lot of action should probably be replaced after a maximum of five years of ownership; as safety should not be compromised.
If you have been in a crash, major or minor, it is strongly recommended that you replace the helmet immediately with a new one. Dropping the helmet frequently may degrade its safety features over time. If the helmet hits the ground at speed, it may lead to some deterioration to its structural integrity and you should replace it immediately.