Products 16 Jul 2010

Review: 2010 PodMX K700 Knee Braces

MotoOnline.com.au rides with and rates PodMX’s latest off the shelf K700 Knee Braces in our latest product test.

The PodMX K700 Knee Brace continues the brand's tradition in first class knee protection.

The PodMX K700 Knee Brace continues the brand's tradition in first class knee protection.

Off the shelf knee brace technology has made huge step forwards in recent years, giving dirt bike riders worldwide the option to purchase first class protection straight from local dealers.

At the forefront of that technology and perhaps proving the most innovative of the lot is PodMX, an Australian company that has its braces distributed worldwide by FOX.

PodMX braces were first introduced a few years ago and updated to this latest and greatest K700 brace this year using feedback from some of the world’s best motorcycle racers.

Team riders include Josh Grant, Justin Barcia, Grant Langston, Tye Simmonds, Lawson Bopping, Luke Arbon and Stefan Merriman, just to name a few. And if you’re wondering what knee brace Cam Sinclair relies on when he does his double backflips, yep, it’s the K700!

The PodMX knee braces feature a patented Polymer Hinge System that uses Synthetic Ligaments so it functions just like a human knee – making them the most natural fitting braces I’ve ever worn.

You’ll notice when you slide the brace on that the Self-Tracking Patella guard stays positioned in-front of your knee without touching it, which PodMX claims is to transfer the impact throughout the brace rather than directly into your kneecap.

Improvements from a comfort perspective on the K700 compared to the original PodMX braces are definitely led by the slimness of the Carbon Composite Frame.

The size of the K700 is incredible, fitting underneath your riding gear comfortably and also proving ultra light weight at just 595 grams per brace!

Even though they are off the shelf and aren’t custom fitted, you’ll be pumped to know that there’s plenty of adjustability featured, including extension stops and hinge inserts, hinge pads, and the strap length.

PodMX products are lab tested for strength, fatigue, stiffness and safety compliance, then going on to test riders for some real world testing as prototypes. After that, they’re fully developed and released to the public.

The four Velcro straps are improved for this model and feature rubber ends to assist with tightening, however once in a one I have found them to work loose after a long day of motos.

At $579.95 per brace you’ll be paying a premium price for off the shelf knee protection, however once you wear them once you’ll never want to ride without them again.

PodMX knee braces are at a level now where comfort is phenomenal for anybody who wishes to try them on, its just a shame that you can’t show them off on track after you pull your pants up and over them!

The styling of the K700 braces are high quality, as can be seen from this inside image.

The styling of the K700 braces are high quality, as can be seen from this inside image.

FEATURES:
• Inspired by the human body, the patented Polymer Hinge System uses
Synthetic Ligaments that function like a human knee, to provide durable and
secure natural motion.

• Low-profile Carbon Composite Frames provide a strong, lightweight, rigid
shell without compromising feel for the bike.

• Interior Strap loops capture your leg to resist rotational forces and brace
migration.

• Self-Tracking Patella guard stays positioned in-front of your knee and
transfers impacts through out the brace and away from the knee itself.

• Anti-bacterial moisture wicking frame liners, condyle pads & strap pads keep
you cool and comfortable.

• Available off the shelf in five sizes – each micro–adjustable for a custom fit.

The PodMX K700 Knee Braces feature four Velcro straps to tighten on your leg, plus an exceptional red internal liner.

The PodMX K700 Knee Braces feature four Velcro straps to tighten on your leg, plus an exceptional red internal liner.

PURCHASE DETAILS
Available colours: Carbon/Red
Price: $579.95 per brace
Sizes: S-XXL
Distributor: Monza Imports
www.monzaimports.com.au

PLUS POINTS:
+ Compact size
+ Carbon styling
+ Outright comfort

MINUS POINTS:
– Straps can work loose

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