Our guide on inserting a new cartridge covers the quick version of getting back on the road after a deployment. This guide goes a level deeper, into the internal piston, spring and key-ball reset that happens on the mechanical system before the new cartridge goes in. It is worth reading if you want to understand exactly what you are doing at each step, rather than just following the short version.
The process is straightforward, but it does need to be done correctly. An improper reset can stop the airbag working next time. Take your time, and if anything feels off, stop and contact us or Helite before riding. Helite also keeps explanatory videos at my.helite.com.
What you will need
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The Allen key supplied with your airbag.
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A new Helite cartridge of the same size as the one you are replacing.
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A few minutes somewhere clean and well lit.
Before you start: a safety caution about the key-ball
During this process you are putting the spring back under tension and seating the key-ball. The system is designed to fire when the key-ball is released. Work calmly, hold the key-ball firmly when the instructions tell you to, and do not connect the lanyard or tug on the key-ball until the reset is finished and a new cartridge is fitted.
Step by step
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After deployment, the key-ball has been ejected and the spring is visible. Unscrew the empty CO2 cartridge and remove it.
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Using the supplied Allen key, loosen the bearing cap. Do not unscrew it fully, just enough to let you move the piston back into place.
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Push the piston back using the Allen key or your finger. Make sure the notch on the piston lines up in front of the hole where the key-ball sits.
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Put the key-ball back in its location. The ring around the ball should sit flat. Start screwing the bearing cap back on by hand while you hold the key-ball firmly in place.
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Finish tightening the bearing cap with the Allen key, still holding the key-ball. The bearing cap should make contact with the cylinder. Do not overtighten, and do not force or damage the parts.
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Fit a new CO2 cartridge and screw it in fully, without force. Make sure it is tight enough and not going in at an angle.
If the cartridge will not screw in easily without real force, you may have cross-threaded it. Unscrew it and start again until it threads in smoothly.
What is normal after a deployment
A few things are expected and not a fault. While inflated, the airbag rises high around the neck, and it can be tricky to get your helmet off in the first few seconds. As you work through the reset, any remaining gas escapes gradually through the decompression hole, and the final release of pressure is felt for about 5 to 10 seconds before the airbag fully returns to its normal shape. This is separate from the 5 to 7 minutes the airbag stays supportively inflated right after a fall, which we cover in our guide on reusing your airbag after an accident. The 5 to 10 second figure describes the last bit of residual pressure escaping once you have already begun the reset.
When to get it checked instead
Reset the vest yourself only if it came through the deployment intact. Take it to an authorised dealer if you notice damage to the garment during deployment. Serious damage to the airbag garment may not be repairable, so it is worth a professional look before you rely on it again.
If you have questions about which Helite model suits your riding, get in touch with our team at contact@helite.co.nz
Frequently asked questions
Can I reactivate a Helite airbag myself?
Yes. The mechanical system is designed to be reset by the rider. You reset the piston and key-ball with the supplied Allen key, then fit a new cartridge. If you are unsure at any point, contact your dealer.
What do I need to reset my airbag?
The Allen key that came with the vest and a new Helite cartridge of the same size as the one you used. No other tools are required.
Why won't my new cartridge screw in?
It is most likely cross-threaded. Unscrew it and start again, screwing it in gently until it threads smoothly.
How long does the airbag stay inflated, and how long does it take to fully deflate during the reset?
The airbag stays supportively inflated for around 5 to 7 minutes after a fall. During the reset itself, the last bit of residual pressure escapes over about 5 to 10 seconds as you work through the steps.
What if the vest was damaged when it deployed?
Do not reset and ride on a damaged garment. Take it to an authorised dealer for servicing. Serious damage may not be repairable, so have it checked first.