Inline fitness skates are similar to traditional recreational skates, with a few slight feature improvements for increased speed, comfort and stability on long trips. Consequently, fitness skates cost slightly more than traditional skates. One of the most prominent manufacturers of fitness inline skates is K2. In 2007, the men's K2 Moto 90 received a top rating from the Inline Planet website. The 2011 version of the skate is called the Mach 90.
Boot/Fit
K2 patented its Softboot technology in 1994 and, as of 2011, is still using it. Softboot technology makes for an exceptionally comfortable fit, which is anatomically designed for men. The outer boot is ventilated to help keep your feet cool, and the dual-strap design, plus laces, keeps your feet snug and secure. Both the older Moto 90 model and newer Mach 90 model offer similar boot design -- with the exception of differences in color.
Frame/Wheels
Both the Moto 90 and Mach 90 have large 90 mm diameter wheels that are built for speed. The hardness, referred to as durometer, of the wheels is 83A. This makes them ideal for outdoor use on pavement, concrete and other hard surfaces. The VO2 die cast aluminum frame is available in an 80 mm or 84 mm length for added flexibility. It also helps to keep the overall weight of the skate down.
Performance
The Moto/Mach 90 performs well during street use, according to InlinePlanet.com. The boot actually flexes near the heel to provide additional thrust during your stride. The 90 mm wheels are large enough to generate a fair amount of speed, and the TwinCam ILQ-9 bearings roll very well and require little maintenance. The editors at InlinePlanet.com especially liked how smoothly the Moto 90 handled rough pavement.
Who's it For?
The 2011 Mach 90, or earlier Moto 90, is for any man looking to get in shape by skating on any type of pavement. The cost, as of January of 2011, is about $210 for the Mach 90 and about $150 for its predecessor. This is not an ideal skate for beginners, due to the fact the bearings/wheels roll so well; however, intermediate-to-advanced skaters will enjoy the speed of the Moto/Mach 90 inline skate from K2.
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