I was a bit perplexed at being advised to replace it after 2-3 years, so I e-mailed Evans Cycles to query this. Their response (after the preamble about welcoming customer feedback and all that stuff):
"With regard to the expected lifespan of a helmet, 2-3 years is a reasonably conservative estimate. Most manufacturers recommend replacement at between 3 and 5 years, but this is highly dependant on conditions of use; as you may have read, the polycarbonate shell of the helmet deteriorates over time under exposure to UV radiation, and in addition the gas used to inflate the foam interior can leak very slowly over time and these factors combine to reduce the protective capability of the helmet to an unsafe level.
In addition, any impact can invisibly damage the foam interior structure, which is why all manufacturers suggest replacing a helmet that has experienced any significant impact."
So, there y'go, 3 to 5 years. Ish. I can live with that.
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