Vega Recalls More Than 30,000 Motorcycle Helmets

The popular motorcycle gear manufacturer Vega Helmet Corp. is recalling more than 30,000 of its XTS helmets after it was found that the gear may not adequately protect riders in the event of a crash. According to Motorcycle.com, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tested several extra-large helmets earlier in the year and found they didn't meet national safety standards, leading to the recall.

Vega investigated the problem itself after being notified by the NHTSA, and found that the danger comes from changes made to the helmet's outer shell and interior in 2011, The Wall Street Journal reports. However, Vega does not know how many of the items were impacted by the change, so all helmets are being recalled and replaced in the interest of safety, as the faulty design could increase the risk of injury to riders, the news source reports.

The affected motorcycle helmets are mostly large, extra-large, and double extra large sizes that were produced between May 2011 and October 2012. All of the helmets will be replaced free of charge by the manufacturer.

Anyone who has purchased an XTS Half Helmet in size L, XL or XXL with a manufacturing date between May 2011 and October 2012 should contact Vega by email at CustomerService@VegaHelmet.com, by phone at (425) 656-0683, or contact the dealership from where the helmet was purchased.

The recall is expected to start in late January.

For more information read this Press Release from Vega: Vega XTS Helmet Recall Information