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I just recently picked up a new Shoei X-11 in solid black to replace my Arai Phil Read RX-7RR4 helmet. I’m not one of those guys that likes lightning, flames, bullets, etc. coming out of my head via graphics, but the Read Replica was a nice middle ground because it was not plain, yet still custom. The helmet was old enough and I thought it was time…especially after the rave reviews about the X-11 quietness.

Anyway, this was the second helmet I have sold on ebay. This particular helmet was in excellent condition and the new cost was around $450 when I bought it. I damn near got the same price as new (NOTE: if you plan on turning a helmet, get one that is rare). The other helmet I sold on ebay was a different story. It had been crashed-tested…hard. It was an Arai Haga Quantum F and was the recipient of meeting Mr. asphalt in the bowl at Grattan Raceway in Michigan. I was the proud new owner of a nasty concussion.

I put this helmet on ebay for $40 (my price point to keep it as a trophy / reminder). I was very straight forward and honest in the auction ad using the words “concussion”, “head injury”, “crash-tested”, “practice helmet for air-brushing”, etc. It went for $205…yes, you read that right…$205…and the recipient LOVED it.

As a free-market guy, I think that if your honest about the details of the helmet and someone is willing to buy it, then no big deal. I know that helmets are recommeded to be replaced every five years:

The five year replacement recommendation is based on a consensus by both the helmet manufacturers and the Snell Foundation. Glues, resins and other materials used in helmet production over can affect liner materials. Hair oils, body fluids and cosmetics, as well as normal “wear and tear” all contribute to helmet degradation. Petroleum based products present in cleaners, paints, fuels and other commonly encountered materials may also degrade materials used in many helmets possibly degrading performance. Additionally, experience indicates there will be a noticeable improvement in the protective characteristic of helmets over a five year period due to advances in materials, designs, production methods and the standards. Thus, the recommendation for five year helmet replacement is a judgment call stemming from a prudent safety philosophy.

That, and I also know that they are garbage once crashed or even dropped. I just wonder if either the buyers do not know the info or simply don’t care.

What say you? Heh - should I be wrought with guilt?