It’s important to take precautions when biking. Riding a bike is a great way to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors. It also has some risks, such as exposure to UV rays, dehydration, and even an increase in risk of accidents. One of the most effective ways to reduce these risks is by wearing a helmet.
But how long do bike helmets last? There are many factors that affect the lifespan of your helmet, including where you live and how often you use it. Here are some ways to prolong the life of your helmet!
How long do bike helmets last?
There is no one “right” answer to how long your bike helmet should last. A few factors come into play when determining the life of your helmet, including how you use it, and how often you clean it. How Often Should You Clean Your Bike Helmet? This is an important factor to consider! The main reason your helmet gets dirty is due to the sweat, oil, and dirt that comes from your skin.
Some helmets can be cleaned with no problem, but others need to be cleaned often to keep the inside in pristine condition. The right temperature, solution, and tools will help you keep your helmet clean! Another factor that contributes to the lifespan of your bike helmet is where you live.
What affects the lifespan of a helmet?
You should also be aware of the temperature. High temperatures could cause your helmet to crack. An excessive amount of heat exposure could affect its ability to protect you from dangerous injuries. When in doubt, take it off!
To increase the longevity of your helmet, you should always take it off. You should wear it only when you are in an active mode of transportation and you have complete control of your bike. If your helmet is on the pavement, you could possibly receive an injury.
Repair or replace? If you’re unable to remove your helmet, and have a broken strap, you might want to consider replacing your helmet, especially if you use your bike for a lot of activities. It’s wise to invest in a high quality helmet, as it can go a long way in preventing serious injuries.
Make your helmet last longer
There are some general tips that will help you keep your bike helmet in top shape. You should avoid purchasing used bike helmets. They are often covered with small nicks or scratches that could potentially cause head injuries or cause other problems.
People should also be especially cautious about helmets with dark colors. UV rays from the sun can cause damage to the lenses of dark helmets. Another good way to keep your helmet looking and feeling its best is to clean it regularly.
Some smart bike helmets also include a goggle wipe for quick cleaning, although you can also use water to wipe away any dirt or dirt particles you may find. When in doubt, replace your helmet every six to twelve months.
Other ways to keep your bike safe
1. Clean it often. Before cleaning your bike, make sure that the tire is not flat or the chain is clean and greased. This will keep dirt and grime from getting inside the frame.
2. Choose the right gear. Ensure that your bike’s brakes, gears, and chain are working smoothly.
3. Properly tighten your handlebars. While not used daily, they should always be securely locked so that they do not fall while you’re cycling.
4. Don’t let air out of your tires. The air in your tire expands when the temperature rises and then contracts when it gets cooler. Check to make sure your tires are inflated to the proper pressure for the environment where you are cycling.
5. Replace brake pads regularly. Brake pads are the thick pads on the wheels that the bike uses to stop.
Conclusion
Before you give up on your helmet because it’s starting to look faded, here are a few simple ways to maintain its lifespan and keep your helmet in great shape. These are some basic, cost-free ways to keep your helmet safe and protecting you!
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