Articles

Sydney Scooter Expo and the National Scooter Rally

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 04:07:00 GMT

Flexvision will be exhbiting the full range of Nannini goggles and glasses at the Sydney Scooter Expo.

http://nationalscooterrally.org/

Flexvision will be exhibiting at ODMAFair 2011

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 04:17:00 GMT

Australia's premier optical event!

There will be over 120 exhibitors at ODMFair this year, which will be held from 5-7 August at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Center, conveniently located in the heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour.

Its been 2 years since the last ODMAFair and a lot has changed for Flexvision. We now have an expanded product range and will be exhibiting the following lines:

Switch-it rimless frames
Nannini motorcyle and skiing goggles
Ferrari motorcyle and skiing goggles
Nannini optical frames and reading glasses
eyeCard emergency-use magnifiers

Come by and see us at Stand 288.

HelmetLok now available through Flexvision

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 03:32:00 GMT

HelmetLok is a great little invention to protect your helmet, jacket and other riding gear from theft while you are away from your bike.

While most bikes have some sort of built-in gear lock, its often in an awkward position or difficult to use, or requires yet another key. The great thing about HelmetLok is that its a programmable 3 digit combination lock and you can attach it to any part of any bike.

Here is a great review of the product and we will post links to other reviews as we get them.

Click here to purchase online or look for us at various trade and bike shows around NSW, ACT, VIC and QLD.

And remember... lock it, don't lose it!!!

Trade Shows in and around NSW and ACT

Mon, 09 May 2011 10:18:00 GMT

We are taking all the products on the road to various trade shows in and around NSW and ACT. Come on down and see the products up close.

Future shows:

Ironfest

Lithgow Showgrounds, Lithgow NSW. Saturday 14th and 15th May. http://www.ironfest.com.au

Thunderbolt Rally

Dungog Showgrounds, Dungog NSW. Saturday 21st May.

We have recently attended the following shows:

Barry Sheene Festival of Speed

Eastern Creek Raceway, Eastern Creek, NSW. Friday 1st, Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd April. http://www.barrysheene.com.au/

50+ Home Leisure and Lifestyle Show

Rosehill Rosecourse, Rosehill NSW. Friday 8th, Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April. http://www.homeleisureandlifestyleshow.com.au/

Auto Italia

Old Parliament House, Canberra, ACT. Sunday 17th April. http://www.autoitaliacanberra.com/

Bankstown Custom Motorcycle Show

Bankstown Paceway, Banktown, NSW. Friday 22nd April. http://www.hardnfast.com/motorcycle-show/bankstown.html

Festival of Sporting Cars

Eastern Creek Raceway, Eastern Creek, NSW. Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th April. http://www.fosc.com.au/

Brass Monkey Rally

Rydal Showgrounds, Rydal, NSW. Saturday 7th May. http://www.bikersaustralia.com.au

Even Brad Pitt wears them!!!

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 03:09:00 GMT

From the Daily Mail Online. See Brad Pitt wearing Compact 1 reading glasses.

Of course, the article completely gets it wrong and refers to the Nannini Compact 1 reading glasses as "wire-framed specs".
However, this does show that anyone can suffer from presbyopia and need reading glasses once they reach their mid 40's.

1950's Italian Police Motorcycle Drill Team Display

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:36:00 GMT

Okay so its not really to do with glasses or goggles, but it looks really cool anyway!!! I wonder just how many bikes got bent while they were rehearsing?

Switch-it coming to Australia and New Zealand

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 06:37:00 GMT

Switch-it is designed by EBM Design, founded in Passau, Germany in 1982. The brand was launched in 2006 with just 20 frame styles, and 5 years later there are 350 styles available, and the brand is available all over the world.

The temples & bridge slide in horizontally and lock in place on the injection-moulded stainless steel mounting rails. Make style changes in seconds without any tools required!

Switch-it frames are available in a huge range of materials, widths, sizes, styles, colours, patterns, effects, finishes and lens shapes. The full catalogue is currently approximately 350 frames, and 100 of these are available in Australia. The catalogue will be expanded over the next two years. See Switch-it.cc

Switch-it is sold in over 3,000 independent optometrist in Germany (30%+ market penetration), and the frames are distributed in Austria and Switzerland. Over 10,000 shipments are dispatched monthly from the Passau headquarters. Di Rego Vision SpA, Italy, manufactures them under license and new licensee manufacturers have been signed for the Americas and Asia.

Be one of the first people in Australia and New Zealand to get your hands on these amazing optical frames.

eyeCard now available in Australia and New Zealand

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 02:40:00 GMT

eyeCard is the reading solution that is always on hand. The size of a credit card (85 x 50 x 2mm) and weighing only 5 grams it is perfect for the person who depends on reading glasses, but finds they have forgotten them elsewhere.

Patented by the Lindberg Design Group in Sweden and manufactured in Italy by Nannini. eyeCard is the “one size fits all” dioptric power that works perfectly for people who normally use reading glasses with powers between + 1.00 and + 4.50. Clear focusing for each individual is achieved simply by adjusting both the position of the eyeCard on the nose and the distance to the object being viewed.

This exciting new product will be available in Australia and New Zealand from September 2010. RRP AUD$19.95/NZD$26.95 inc. GST.

See EyeCard.The reading glasses that are with you at all times, in all places.

Breaking News!!! Ferrari Goggles by Nannini

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 04:49:00 GMT

For more than 60 years, Ferrari has symbolised motoring excellence and has given its millions of fans around the world some amazing cars and incredible racing victories. With a similar rich history, for the past 50 years, Nannini has been producing exquisite racing goggles in the best tradition of Italian craftsmanship.

Now a new range of Ferrari goggles has been created using the highest quality materials and technological expertise in a partnership between Maranello and Modena's finest craftsmen - Ferrari and Nannini.

Produced exclusively in Italy by selecting the best leather, then hand-sewing and manually assembling the goggles using machinery in the Modena workshops that have created Nannini glasses for over half a century.

Two lines of goggles: Scuderia and Classic - Inspired by the world of Formula 1 racing and by the elegance of classic 1950’s cabriolets. Designed to satisfy the discerning needs and desires of all those who love the iconic Maranello car maker. Indispensable in a convertible, on a motorbike or scooter, whether driving on a race track or on the open road. For use on ski slopes, and for all those thrill-seeking moments that are distinguished by the excitement of speed.

This exciting new range will be available in Australia and New Zealand from November 2010. RRP from AUD$299/NZD$375 to AUD$599/NZD$750 inc. GST.

Announcing the Nannini N-Red Special Edition Collection

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 06:31:00 GMT

Flexvision is pleased to announce that the new Nannini N-Red Special Edition Collection is now available in Australia and New Zealand. RED - the colour of passion, fire, energy, speed, strength, sensuality, style... Italy: Modena. The region around Modena where Nannini islocated is known as the "the capital of engines", as it is home motor-sports icons such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani and Ducati. The best selling Nannini goggles and glasses have been recreated as aspecial edition collection with the unique N-Red logo. Take a ride with us in this world made with the newest materials and technologies, but with unique retro styling, all brought together by the colour of Modena's passion for the engine: RED.

Available in 5 styles of goggles and glasses for every motoring, riding or racing need: N-Route, N-Flash, N-Wind, N-Spirit, and N-Light. The N-Red Collection is a complete range for every style and vehicle, with all the comfort and safety that Nannini always provides, whether it be for leisure driving, commuting or racing.

Priced from RRP AUD$119 to AUD$219. Available from leading optometrists and motorcycle retailers.

See N-Red for the full collection.

How Often Should You Have an Eye Exam?

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 06:30:00 GMT

When it comes to looking after ourselves, there are various check ups we must take in order to keep ourselves up to date with the current condition of our body and also allow us to adopt the necessary measures we need to help us deal with any changes. Just as we should ensure we visit the dentist and our doctor regularly, the same can be said for our eyes. Most eye car experts will recommend that you have a complete eye exam every one to three years depending on your age and whether you already wear corrective glasses or contact lenses.

However, different risk factors can also greatly change the times in which you should leave between each eye exam and this will also change between children and adults. Children will require regular eye exams in order to detect any vision problems they may have been born with which could potentially affect their learning and development. Educational experts say that up to 80% of a child’s learning is presented visually and so in order for a child to get the best from their learning, any potential issues with their sight must be identified as soon as possible and treated accordingly. Some experts believe that a child should have their first eye exam at the age of six months, then at the age of three and then again before they begin school. However, those children who have no risks to their eyesight should then only require an eye exam every two years until they reach the age of eighteen. When it comes to risk factors, however these can greatly affect the times which should be left between each eye exam. These can include:

A history of a premature birth or being born at a low weight
Whether the mother experienced any infections or conditions during the pregnancy including rubella, herpes, AIDS, etc
Delays in the child’s development
Being born with turned or crossed eyes
Any family history of eye disease
Any other physical illnesses or diseases

Any child who does have to wear glasses for any form of eye issue should have their eyes checked annually in order to keep track of their eyes development and progress through using corrective eyewear.

As we reach adulthood, there are different reasons as to why we will require having regular check-ups for our eyes. Seniors will need regular eye exams in order to avoid slightly threatening diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts which will affect their overall ability to see. However, for adults of a younger age, experts believe that an eye exam every 2 years until the age of around 60 will be sufficient enough to keep track of the health and condition of our eyes. However those who have any of the following risks should ensure they have more frequent eye exams:

Any family history of eye disease such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc
If they have diabetes or suffer from high blood pressure
If they have a visually demanding job role which may be hazardous to the eyes
If they have had any eye surgery/injuries in the past; and
If the individual is taking any medications which have a known side effect which affects the eyes

If an adult is already wearing glasses and/or contact lenses, they will be advised by their optometrist to have an eye exam once a year.

When it comes to looking after our eyes, the simplest thing we can do is to ensure we attend any eye examinations we are due. In the event you are unsure when you are required an eye exam, simply enquire with your optician about when your next exam is due. By taking this simple measure, you will be making one big help to keeping your eyes healthy.

What is Presbyopia?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:04:00 GMT

They say that the eyes are the window to the soul. For some, this is something which they truly believe, for others; it is something which they may feel is a little too deep. However, one thing is for sure, our eyes are one of the most precious parts of our bodies-allowing us to view and experience the world. It is for this reason that when our sight is compromised, it can often be an extremely terrifying experience.

Presbyopia is a condition which is caused by the body’s natural aging process. As we become older, we will find that our body will deteriorate in various, gradual ways. Presbyopia will begin with the individual finding it harder to read small lettering at a close distance, or will struggle to sit in front of a computer for a long period of time. Due to the techniques the individual may adopt in order to read text, such as holding small print at arm’s length in order to read it, the condition is often referred to as ‘short arm syndrome’. As an adult approaches their middle life, around the age of 40, the eyes lens will gradually become thicker which will reduce its flexibility. As this thickness increases, the lens of the eye will start to have difficulty changing its focusing distance affecting how the eye can view small text.

As stated above, the typical symptoms will begin with the individual finding it hard to read smaller print, resulting in the print being placed at a further distance from the eye. However, symptoms can also include a great need for lighting in order to read and complete small intricate work such as sewing, the feeling of their eyes being strained after short periods of time reading and experiencing difficulty in identifying the contrast between small pieces of text. For many, this may be a difficult time as they may see the deterioration of their eyes as a sign that they are deemed as ‘old’, but in actual fact presbyopia is a very common condition which can sometimes start early in some individuals based on their personal and work lives. There are wide ranges of ways in which an individual can live with the condition such as wearing reading glasses, wearing contact lenses and in other cases, even opting for laser surgery.

Some current eyeglasses wearers may think that they will not experience presbyopia as they already experience problems with their sight, but this is simply not true. Astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness differ from presbyopia as they relate to the shape of the eyeball and are often caused by genetic and environmental factors rather than the body’s aging process. Those who currently wear glasses and/or contact lenses may find that as they become older they may require bifocal glasses which will help them address their sight impairment on the top portion of the lens, and the issues their eyes have from presbyopia at the bottom. Looking out of the lower portion of the lens will help correct the vision problems they experience from presbyopia, but wearers will see a clear marking on their glasses lens where the different strengths of lens meet. However, the simple alternative for most presbyopia suffers is ready readers or reading glasses, which quickly and cheaply solve the vision problem.

Many often worry once their eyes start to experience aging, but with the many advances in ophthalmology allow for us to not only deal with these changes in our bodies but also open us up to a range of possibilities to better our lives and our sight.

The Best Motorbike Movies Ever

Tue, 25 May 2010 15:39:00 GMT

For many years, the film industry has been responsible for exposing us to worlds we never knew before. Whether we are following a story of fact or fiction, the stories in which we live alongside the characters have for many, helped craft love and passion for other areas. In terms of the genre of action films, cinema has helped create great excitement within many movie goers. The genre of motorbike films has been extremely popular for many decades and to some, is seen as a pivotal genre within the American film industry. The films which have evolved from this genre have not only helped to begin the careers of many well known actors today, but have also gone down in history as some of the best pieces of cinema to date. Motorcycle lovers will all have their own ideas of what constitutes as the best motorbike film which will be determined by the story of the film, the actors within the roles and most importantly-the models of bikes which are featured. However, below, are some of the ultimate motorbike movies of all time.

Thought of by many as the ‘quintessential biker movie of all time’, Easy Rider was an instant cultural phenomenon after its release in 1969. Featuring Peter Fonda as ‘Captain America’ and Dennis Hopper as his sidekick ‘Billy’; Easy Rider sees the two characters travel through America on their Choppers searching for freedom following the rise and fall of the hippie movement. Filmed with a fantastic soundtrack and some stunning backdrops, it was the films presentation of how America is best explored on a motorbike which struck a chord with viewers all across the globe. With the Captain America and the Billy bikes both built by bike builder Ben Hardy, this is must see for any lover of a classic film, as well as a chance to see some beautifully crafted motorbikes.

Next, is everyone’s favorite wartime/motorbike movie - The Great Escape (1963). Although already a legend within the film world, it was Steve McQueen’s portrayal as a POW in wartime Germany that catapulted him to legendary status. Although not featured throughout the entire film, McQueen’s escape on his Triumph TR6 to this day has remained one of the most memorable film sequences of all time-regardless of whether his character, Hilts was able to make it over the border or not! His characters determination to escape and his gutsy attempts to break free whilst coolly riding his motorcycle (nearly all stunts were performed by McQueen himself) helped to make this a film which will forever be on the all time greatest motorbike movie listings.

Marlon Brando’s The Wild One (1953), is seen as one of the original biker movies, portraying the story of Johnny Stabler, the leader of the Black Rebels Motorcycle Club. Based on real life 1947 Hollister event, but portrayed in a much tamer way within the film, The Wild One tells the story of Johnny’s life within the BRMC before falling in love with a local town girl but his happiness is short lived by his psychotic rival who threatens to end his happiness. Filmed within traditional black and white films, Brando’s 650cc Triumph Thunderbird is a joy for all motorbike lovers to see, especially when viewed in action in this brilliant classic.

Again starring Peter Fonda, The Wild Angels (1966) started a new brand of motorcycle movies with this tale of an outlaw biker gang led by Fonda. Following an incident with the police, one of the gang lands himself in hospital before being set free by his fellow gang members. However, this all ends in tears when the member in question, ‘Loser’, dies from his wounds which results in a biker funeral. As well known for the lawsuit which followed the film by the real life Hell’s Angels on an account of defamation of a real life character as it is for the film itself, the film began Fonda’s association with the biking genre as well as helping to break down some of the boundaries in cinema at the time thanks to its slightly sinister subject manner.

Finally, there is The Glory Stompers (1968), which again saw Dennis Hopper working within the biker genre. Following his character Chino as a member of the Blacks Souls Motorcycle Club, viewers watched as Chino kidnaps a young girl after beating her boyfriend up and then being left with the decision whether to kill her or sell her to “some high-class Mexican friends of ours.” With a performance from Hopper not to be missed, The Glory Stompers is a great tale about a rough and ready motorcycle gang who go to war against their rival gang, allowing for plenty of motorbike riding along the way!

Following the beginnings of the genre with the above films, the genre of motorbike movies has grown, allowing motorbike lovers everywhere to view these beautiful pieces of machinery in all its glory. So if you have missed any of the above films, get yourself down to your local rental store and experience the beauty of these pieces of history on your screen.

How to Get a Motorbike License in Australia

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 06:59:00 GMT

Being able to ride a motorcycle can be a daunting but yet extremely exciting ability. You are provided with the freedom to ride your motorcycle and experience the thrills and joys which can come from traveling the open roads on your bike; but with this comes a certain level of responsibility. As with any automobile, it is imperative that all riders are aware of the responsibility which comes from being on the roads to ensure not only the safety of themselves, but also the safety of other road users. This is why in order to be able to ride a motorcycle, it is vital you have a motorbike license.

Obtaining a motorcycle license will begin with the individual in question preparing themselves and learning how to ride a motorcycle. Within Australia, an individual must firstly apply for an R-E learner’s permit before they can begin to have motorcycle lessons, but can only do so once they have reached 16 years of age. Once you hold a full R-E class permit, you will be able to apply for an R class permit but you will be unable to complete the practical text for this until you have been in possession of your R-E license for at least 12 months.

A learner’s permit may be a small step into fully obtaining your motorcycle license, but with it the individual will be finally able to have riding lessons. A learner’s permit will allow the individual to learn with a licensed riding instructor who holds a similar or higher license than the license in which you are applying for. However, it will also enable them to learn with someone who has a current driver’s license and has held this for over 4 years, or if you are learning to ride a moped; you can also learn with someone who has held an R-N, R or C class license for over two years. During your lessons, your instructor must accompany you at all times on either another motorcycle or whilst riding in a sidecar connected to your motorcycle. In the event that you are applying for an R-E class license, you can only ride motorcycles which have an engine capacity which does not exceed 250cc, and must display your ‘L’ plates at all times.

The time in which you are ready to take your motorcycle theory test will differ with each learner, but your instructor and your own personal feelings on whether you are ready or not will help you decide when is the correct time. If you are applying for an R-E class license, you will need to sit a theory test, but this is not required when applying for an R-N or R class license. The test consists of 15 multiple choice questions which will cover a wide range of topics related to road rules when riding a motorcycle. In order to pass this test you will need to have a score of 12 or more. If you are applying for an R-E license, you may also have to sit a road rules theory test which consists of 30 multiple choice questions. In order to pass this, you will need to have a score of 24 or more.

Following the success of your theory test, you will then need to ensure you have as much practice as possible in order to be able to gain your motorcycle license. Once you and your instructor feel you are ready, you can take your practical riding assessment. This is something which you should only do when you feel completely sure that you know how to handle the motorcycle and will be able to answer any questions which may come up during your assessment. By ensuring you are prepared you will not only have a greater chance of passing and obtaining your license; but will also be much closer to enjoying the thrill of riding your own motorbike.

Once you have your license in hand you are ready to hit the open road, but make sure you are properly kitted out with a helmet, riding glasses or goggles, a sturdy jacket and clothing, and appropriate footwear.

Bankstown Motorcycle Show Friday 2nd April 2010

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 23:29:00 GMT

Flexvision is proud to announce that we will be exhibiting Nannini's hand-made Italian motorcycle goggles and riding glasses at the Bankstown Motorcycle Show. We will be in the trade stalls area in the car park. The full range of Nannini Motor products will be on display and available for purchase. Dealer inquiries are also most welcome.

The Show will be held from on Friday 2nd April at the Bankstown Paceway (178 Eldridge Road, Bankstown). Opening hours are 10:00am to 8:00pm. See you there!!!

http://www.hardnfast.com/motorcycle-show/bankstown.html