Test : K2 Moto 84 (2010 edition)

Testing

Design

The 2010 edition of the M84 skate combines 3 major colors: black, white and red. Its looks are simpler than on the Mach 90 which obviously benefited from extensive design attention.
White fabric delicately adorned with red lines. The skate name appears in stylish letterings on the sides.

Flexibility, rigidity, support

Forward flex is easily accessible, providing for efficient push. It looks like this skate entices to a slight forward tipping, this effect is accentuated by the height of the shoe at the back of the calf, which raises higher than on the Mach 90 (approx. 1cm higher), even though the cuff itself is of the same size.
This somewhat restricts the bakwards flex, which is not really detrimental to skating unless you are a fan of extreme forward legsplits.
This high backside provides a good support feeling. Skating feels more precise, more reactive, with better support than with the Mach 90. The structure seems to wrap the foot more extensively. Lateral support appears to be without a flaw.

Comfort

Here too, one has to recognize K2’s experience. The M84, as most skates of the brand, is truly comfy, with generous foam thickness all around.
Only restriction would be the height of the back, which may be felt while skating, but that is only a minor annoyance.
In contrast to the Mach 90, there is no need to overtighten the laces for a good support sensation.

Fastening

The fastening system is the same as for the other models of the brand: laces on the foot, velcro strap on the instep and micrometric clasp on the cuff. Laces slide well and tighten evenly.
The velcro strap secures the foot inside the shoe without impeding movement like a rigid clasp might, even though it would generally offer more efficient and precise support.
Finally, the rigid micrometric clasp completes the fastening to the shin. As with the Mach 90 model, we recommend you select a size fitting closely to your foot in order to benefit from maximum skating precision: the foam liner will settle as time goes by.

Frame

The skates in this model range are fitted with a frame made of 2 stamped plates rivetted to the shell. This is not the most efficient system for transfering the push; since the frame is made of multiple parts… but it proves quite adequate for short and mid-range fitness skating.

Bearings

K2 has fitted the Mach 90 with Twincam ILQ7 bearings, a tried-and-approved reference on the marketplace, amply adequate for fitness skating. No deterioration of the bearings was noticeable for weeks of trial. Spacers are inserted inside the bearings, so you’ll need a « pusher » tool to remove them.
Please note : this frame will only accept wheels up to 84mm max diameter.

Wheels

Original mount by K2 is with 84mm diameter 80A shore wheels.
Might as well say that these wheels are not very hard and will erode rapidly, so it is wise to avoid T-stops.
That tenderness provides for rolling comfort, at the expense of some reactivity. It is clearly a model designed for fitness skating.
Wheel erosion is rapid but very even. No material gaps was noticeable and degradation is quite homogenous.
It offers good grip on dry ground but will be lacking on the wet.

Hardware

K2 mounted 6mm axes on the skates, quite good enough for fitness skating. These are hollow axes into which a screw fits at the other end, not simple threaded axes like on speedskates.
K2 wisely gave them a square shoulder on the end opposite to the screw, which inhibits the axis rotation as you work the screw so that you only need one tool on the screw end.

Reliability

The Moto 84 skate showed no signs of degradation during our tests, except for the wheels which did not appreciate our T-stops. We even did some slides and rolling-down steps, the structure stood up to this reckless treatment.

Finishings

Finishings are very clean, as often with K2 skates. Inside seams are inconspicuous, external ones are flawless. Glue joints between the shoe and the polyurethane structure show no defect.

Braking

The brake pad is effective from its very first use as with the Mach 90 model. No problem there.

Conclusion

K2 delivers a skate that is enjoyable both for urban skating and mid-range fitness skating. It is easy on the foot, thanks to its light weight, adequate support and excellent comfort.
In comparison to the Mach 90, beginners will appreciate its reassuring support thanks to the higher-rising cuff. Good value for money, a no-worry solution for beginners and intermediate skaters alike. Wheels are a bit too tender and will erode rapidly. A second mount with harder wheels will be a natural option.

Strengths and weaknesses

Plus + Excellent comfort + Nice finishing + Good value for money + Better support than the Mach 90

Minus – Wheels erode rapidly – Frame with 2 stamped plates lacks rigidity and responsiveness

Marks

Flex/rigidity		08/10
Foot support		08/10
Fastening		08/10
Comfort		09/10
Frame		07/10
Bearings		09/10
Wheels		07/10
Hardware		08/10
Finishing		08/10
Value for money		08/10
	OVERALL MARK :	80%

Technical characteristics

Recommended usage : Midrange fitness skating on cycle paths Users
Users : Men
Boot : Soft/hard Softboot
Fastening : laces, velcro strap and micrometric buckles
Sizes : 36,5 to 49
Frame : riveted 2 stamped aluminium plates – V02 design
Brake : pad
Max wheel diameter : 84 mm
Wheels : K2 84mm 80A
Spacers : Aluminium
Bearings : Twincam ILQ 7
Mass : 1425 gr for size 40,5
Recommended Public Price : 159 Euros

Photos

Useful links

K2 Web Site Text : Alfathor
Translation: Hub
Photos : K2 and Alfathor