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The Radar EV Heater It is not a traditional new MTB design, but it does offer features that are important on tours, trails and fast descents: extensive coverage, a lightweight frame and contact points designed to provide a better grip when you’re sweating.
A taller windscreen for a better view ahead
The key difference from previous radar optics is the taller EV Heater windscreen. It extends further upwards and is designed to restrict the field of view less when riders lift their heads or adopt a low, active riding position.
On a mountain bike, this is particularly important on steep sections and fast descents. Anyone looking to find the right line on rocky trails will want as little of the frame as possible in their upper field of vision. The large visor can also be a welcome feature on longer e-MTB rides, as it keeps wind, dust and flying insects away from your face over a wider area.
Anyone looking for a pair of large-frame glasses for off-road use will find what they’re looking for in our An overview of cycling sunglasses for mountain bikers Other models and factors to consider when buying.
A secure fit, even when the going gets rough
Oakley focuses on the Radar EV Heater a frame made from O-Matter, as well as Unobtainium nose pads and temple tips. According to the manufacturer, this material is designed to provide a better grip in damp conditions. Two interchangeable nose pads are also included to help you adjust the fit to your nose.
When it comes to actual cycling, however, the following still applies: a good pair of glasses must work with your own helmet. Particularly with large lenses, the forehead area, helmet visor and temple position can all come into contact. That’s why it’s worth trying them on with your helmet, ideally in your usual riding position.
Face width also plays a role. Oakley specifies the Radar EV Heater in XL with a lens width of 138 millimetres. For narrower faces, the large frame can therefore quickly appear too overpowering.
Prizm lenses: Choosing the right tint is key
The Radar EV Heater is available with a range of Prizm lenses, depending on the model. The technology is designed to enhance contrast and detail. For mountain bikers, this can be helpful in changing light conditions in the forest, when moving from sun to shade, or on rocky terrain.
However, it is not just the model name that matters, but the lens chosen. Those who mainly ride in sunny conditions and on open alpine routes need a different tint to riders who mainly ride in the woods or in rapidly changing light conditions. For all-rounders, photochromic cycling glasses could be an interesting alternative.
Conclusion: An eye-catching radar variant with potential for trail riding
The Oakley Radar EV Heater combines the retro-inspired look of the Radar series with a significantly taller visor. This makes it particularly appealing to motorcyclists who prefer as unobstructed a field of vision as possible, whilst also offering plenty of protection from wind, dust and insects.
Before making a purchase, mountain bikers and e-bike riders should check three key points in particular: Do the wide lenses fit the face? Do the glasses go well with your helmet and visor? And is the chosen lens tint suitable for your preferred lighting conditions? If you can answer these questions in the affirmative, Oakley’s Radar EV Heater offers you a striking pair of performance glasses that aren’t just for road cycling.
Better visibility from the lower link position
The elongated and taller visor shape is the key difference within the model. When looking forwards from the lower handlebar position, the upper field of vision remains less restricted. This can be useful on fast descents, in a tight peloton or when checking your line through bends. The wide-field design also covers the area in front of the eyes more extensively than more compact cycling glasses.
Provides particularly good grip in any situation
The frame is made from lightweight O-Matter plastic. The Unobtainium nose pads and temple tips are designed to improve grip in damp conditions. This is important for long training rides and races, as the glasses need to stay as securely in place as possible despite sweat, head movements and rough tarmac. However, the individual fit remains crucial: face width, helmet system and riding position all influence whether pressure points develop or the glasses come into contact with the helmet.
Optimal contrast in changing light conditions
The Prizm lens is designed to bring out contrasts and details more clearly within the field of vision. On a road bike, this applies, for example, to uneven surfaces, road markings, wet patches or the transition between sun and shade. However, the most suitable tint depends on the route and the weather. A dark lens is more suitable for bright days, whilst riders need a suitably tailored alternative for changing light conditions.
The editorial team’s conclusion
The Radar EV Heater combines the Radar design with a taller visor and cycling-specific retention elements. It is aimed at cyclists who prefer an unobstructed field of vision and extensive coverage. Before buying, it’s worth trying it on with your own helmet. This allows you to check whether the frame, visor height and contact points suit your personal riding position.
Matthias Borchers
Editor