Parts in danger: Newmen Vario handlebars, Ion protector waistcoat & Bliz goggles in a practical test

Admittedly, there are more and more good MTB products on the market - but some parts are better left alone. In order to maximise safety and the riding experience, BIKE regularly carries out practical tests. In this article, we take a close look at the Newmen Vario handlebars, the Ion protector waistcoat and the Bliz goggles to find out whether they can withstand the rigours of a demanding trail ride.

Screw game: The Newmen VariGrip system

The idea is simple: one handlebar, different lengths. As the name suggests, the VariGrip system can be adjusted from 710 to 760 millimetres for cross-country riders or from 760 to 810 millimetres for enduro and gravity riders. Adjustment is made via two threaded pieces laminated into the handlebars and grip. In practice, you simply turn the grip to the desired position and then fix it in place with an Allen key.

>> Newmen Evolution SL 318.2 and Newmen Advanced in test <<

The different widths are discreetly marked on the handlebars. Important: The system only works with the in-house grips. The changeover is quick and uncomplicated. I first rode the handlebars wide, then medium narrow and finally narrow - until I found my personal ideal width: 760 millimetres.

Short & sweet:

My conclusion

The Newmen Vari Grip handlebar is a clever system for finding the perfect handlebar width. If you already know your preferred width, you don't really need the Vari Grip handlebars. Available with either 10 mm (XC), 20 mm or 40 mm rise, diameter: 31.8 millimetres - unfortunately only in carbon.
Laurin Lehner, BIKE tester

Guardian angel: Ion Arcon HD Pro

Ion presented his first work this spring: the Arcon HD Pro chest and back armour. The back protection complies with the Level 2 CE standard, as does the Evoc chest and back protector. It is particularly noteworthy that the REZRO material used is completely biodegradable. The upper body protection was developed in close collaboration with freeride star Nico Vink. The photo also shows Vink's signature model. The protector is also available in black, which is easier to combine in terms of colour than the purple version.

The Arcon HD Pro with its robust hard-shell elements, the so-called Power Slide Caps, and a weight of 1369 grams initially seems clunky. But this feeling quickly disappears after the first descent. The protector is easy to adjust and offers a secure fit. The ventilation is also efficient. What is remarkable about the Ion is that it fulfils the Level 2 CE test standard for both the back and chest areas >> available here for 209,95 Euro.

My conclusion

A successful premiere! This chest and back protector impresses with its functionality and is the only one in the test that fulfils the stricter standards for both chest and back. It is easy to handle and impresses with its good design. Only the high weight reduces the wearing comfort a little. Otherwise excellent!
Laurin Lehner, BIKE tester

>> Protector waistcoats in a practical test: Ion, Evoc, Poc & Ekoi <<

Peep lens: Bliz P001 glasses

There are a number of glasses for bikers - most of them are outrageously expensive. However, some brands manage to offer glasses at fair prices. One such brand is the Scandinavian label Bliz. The new model P001 is available in two sizes: L and XL - in line with the trend for large sunglasses. There is a total of 17 lenses in different tint categories to choose from. I opted for filter category 1, which I regretted on sunny days. Although the manufacturer promises 100 per cent UV protection even with this subtle tint, it is not advisable to look directly at the sky. In the forest or on overcast days, the slight contrast enhancement with a yellowish tint was convincing. The frame makes a solid impression and sits firmly on the face. The nosepieces can be adjusted to fit wider noses. In short: solid frame, comfortable lenses, fair price. Nevertheless: better try them out - and better from filter category 2. Unfortunately, there are no self-tinting lenses for this model >> available here for 89,95 Euro.

>> 0.6 seconds - one of the fastest self-tinting glasses? <<

• Visibility and UV protectionThe lenses offer excellent UV protection and effectively reduce glare, resulting in clear vision.
• Tested glasses: Coral/Orange Mirror Blue, Cat. 1
• Made in: China
• Adjustment options: Temples and nose bridge mouldable.

My conclusion

The frame looks high quality and is in no way inferior to more expensive models. The glasses sit firmly on the face and provide effective protection against stones, dust and midges. The selected lenses with a subtle category 1 tint provide a pleasantly high-contrast view - but do not offer sufficient protection in summer. You should definitely opt for a darker tint here. Too bad: Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not offer photochromic (self-tinting) lenses.
Laurin Lehner, BIKE tester

>> Parts in danger! Helmet, rain jacket & seat angle correction in the test <<