As the question says... I know the new Snell ratings will come out this year (later in the year I believe), but is it advisable to just wait until then to purchase a new helmet? I've been using loaners for my few autocrosses and track days that I've done, but I need a helmet for the next few years when I plan to run a regular autocross and eventual track/NASA/CCA w2w.

I'm pretty sure I'll be waiting until the new SA05 helmets come out to purchase one, but do any of you have any other recommendations when purchasing at this odd time interval where the new 05 should be out soon to replace the 00 models? Will the leftover 00 models become great clearance deals? I'd just like to save money in the long run, and I know I'll be needing the SA rating.

For most auto-x clubs, helmets are good for 10yrs from the Snell sticker dates. My Snell 95 is expiring this year so I recently picked up a Bell Snell 00 M-rated helmet for auto-x for $50+shipping on ebay. The helmet is pretty nice and good for auto-x only. I wouldn't use it for any DE's or tracking though.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7983169249&category=6749&sspagename=WDVW

edit, I didn't fully read the post about needing the Snell SA rating. Yes, the SA rated helmets will be cheaper when the new ratings are out. I have even seen some at simpson helmets on clearance on ogracing.com

Well, if you can wait til about October (when the SA05 helmets can be sold), then I would wait and get an SA05.

But, as BJO said, the SA2000 helmets will be good until the *next* Snell rating comes out (2010-ish I would expect), so if you can find a good deal on an SA2000 you should be fine with it.

(FWIW, I'll be replaced my well-used SA95 helmet with an SA05 when they are available.)

Jim

Get a helmet now. You'll either be out of the sport or ready for a new helmet in 5 or 6 years.