SDG Speed Mini, Top Fuel Smith Sport Optics - Dirt Rider Tested

Smith
Top Fuel Goggle
Smith released its Fuel line of goggles a few years ago, so if you are a new-product junkie, you might wonder why we are just now doing a test. The reason is Smith updated the face foam on its upper-end goggles (Top Fuel, Fuel TI, Warp Star and Warp TI), and that makes them much-better goggles. For 2005, it also added an "Articulating Outrigger Positioning System," which is designed to improve the fit within the helmet's eyeport. The original Fuel was a favorite of many of our testers, so an improved version is worth noting.

The Fuel is a pretty conventional style of goggle. Most of the previous Smith models were a little out there designwise. The rather large-framed Violator was the company's most-popular model for years, and the Warp, with its more-extreme outrigger strap attachment and unique shape, created a lot of buzz when it was released in the late 1990s. The Warp is still available and is a good choice for riders who like that model's aggressive look and high airflow. For those who prefer a more-conventional style and fit, the Fuel series is a great choice. Smith's tear-off system works well, and its Roll Off's system, which is available for the Fuel series, still sets the standard for nasty conditions. The frame is on the small side, which may be a concern for some, but it allows the product to fit well into pretty much any helmet.

I liked the new articulated strap attachment. It allowed the frame to float a little more and therefore provided a snugger fit. The new three-layer face foam was what really improved this goggle, however, and it offered two advantages over the previous foam. First, it was much more comfortable. The previous Smith "no-sweat" foam worked well at keeping sweat out of your eyes but was a little thin and stiff, which made it slightly harsh on the face. The second advantage was the sweat-absorbing properties. The added foam sponged more sweat and, more important, somehow locked it in and did not spray out on those inevitable heavy impacts. Most goggle companies have made big improvements in face foam over the past few years, and this latest version from Smith puts its performance right in the mix with the best on the market. Suggested retail is $47.95 for the Top Fuel and $57.95 for the Fuel TI (in a blue, Graphite or red frame with a matching mirrored lens). -Sean Finley

SDG
Speed Mini
In the last few years, the adult minibike scene has blown out of control. Honda dealers are selling CRF50Fs faster than they can stock them, and more aftermarket companies are producing trick parts to squeeze better performance out of the tiny fun bikes. With performance demands growing every day, the price to have a relatively trick 50 is absurd; it can range from $3500 to $6500. So it came as no surprise when the guys at SDG, being avid minibike enthusiasts, decided to join the frenzy. Over the years, SDG has become known for building seats for mountain bikes and motocross bikes. Now it's aiming to build a complete minibike that is adult-ready, competitive and affordable.