|
|
FEATURES: ON TEST: SMITH PIVLOCK V90 MAX
Philip Booth
December 23, 2009
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
STORY
Introduced earlier this year, the Smith Pivlock V90 Max features a new interchangeable lens system that Smith has termed Pivlock. The Pivlock system is intended to create a lightweight, single lens design that allows for quick switching out of lenses.
TECH
The Smith Pivlock V90 Max is designed to be extremely light and features rimless construction. The Pivlock V90 Max feature Smith's proprietary, Pivlock lens integration system, which allows for quick swapping of lenses, temples and the nosepiece. Smith uses their hydrophilic Megol rubber compound in the tips of the Grilamid TR90 temples and on the nosepiece to provide a secure fit. The lenses on the Pivlock V90 Max feature 7 base lens curvature along with Smith’s Sweat Seal Hydrocoating. The Pivlock V90 Max is available in Black, Brown Crystal, Gunmetal and Smoke frames. Lens options include Brown Mirror, Platinum, Gray, Brown, Ignitor and Clear Mirror.
RBA SAYS
The replaceable lens system was easy and quick to use and we liked the minimal design that includes just the temples, nosepiece and one-piece lens. This design makes for a lightweight set of glasses but also makes swapping and cleaning a snap. The optics on the Smiths is first rate with no distortion within the visual field. This is especially impressive considering the large size and coverage of the Pivlock V90 Max. We were also impressed with the increased visual field the open frame design provides compared to conventional framed glasses. The Pivlock V90 Max one-piece lens provides good protection from wind, road grime and even the rain. Perhaps the best aspect of the Pivlock V90 Max is their lightweight and comfort. The minimal frame design keeps the weight down to a scant 25-grams. Every tester that rode the Pivlock V90 Max liked how light they felt. Wisely, Smith didn’t sacrifice usability to save a couple extra grams and included hinged temples. The hinges allow for easier storage and for the glasses to be place in a jersey pocket if needed. Smith’s Megol rubber compound on the temples and nosepiece kept the glasses comfortably in place.
The styling of the Pivlock V90 Max received mixed reviews with some testers loving the large single lens Euro look, while other testers were not as taken and would prefer a more sports specific design. One drawback to the Pivlock V90 Max is its large lens touched the cheeks of some of our test riders faces. (The standard Pivlock V90s have a smaller lens profile for smaller riders.) The lens also sits close to the rider’s face, which we prefer but seemed to increased fogging in cold and humid conditions. Good coverage, Pivlock system, flawless optics and lightweight feel make the Smith Pivlock V90 Max a solid choice.
PRICE: $139.00(3 Lenses) $119(1 Lens)
INFO: www.smithoptics.com
BONUS POINTS: Optic quality, Lightweight and Pivlock system |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|