Looking to upgrade after 3 seasons on a LF 130 Drop.
Am looking at the Freeride 133x40 which has a 100% wood core. Have seen the recent discussion on the Tempo which sounds like an awesome board for pure freestyle.
My preferred riding is open ocean freeride so want something that can handle choppy conditions and take lots of punishment from botched landings and kiteloops and occasionally be called upon to go down the line on the odd wave.
Anyone got any comments (good and bad) on the Freeride?
EDIT: Weight 75kg : Current board size 130x40 : Usual conditions 18 - 25knts
What size are you? I use a 137x44 Tempo for mainly open ocean freeride. I'm 85kg. I find the wider board awesome in the waves and have ridden the odd wave without the power of the kite to assist me. Nice flex and rocker gives you good chop handling ability which you can specify on either the Tempo or Freeride.
As for bulletproof taking lots of punishment, I think either board will do just fine. You won't find many if any people who have broken a Cardboards and not had it replaced.
Hi Airhead,
that's my 138 x 41 freeride(foam core twin concave) light wind wave board in my avatar. Love the board. I'm also 75kg. Only use surfboard in xtra light wind(6'7"). Like you I was impressed by reviews of Tempo. I bought a 137 x 41 quad concave Tempo, thinking to upgrade the freeride. - NO GO - Freeride gets going & upwind significantly earlier. But with that bit xtra wind Tempo is very exciting to sail. So I've got 2 light wind boards & luv both.
You're not starting out, got enough wind, whether slashing waves or doing tricks it's a no brainer for you, go the Tempo.
cheers
COL
For outright speed and light wind kiting the Freeride is probably the pick.
If youre riding in choppy conditions, need a forgiving landing, love carving turns or trying new tricks, the Tempo is a dead set winner.
Hello Huey
I understand your problem. 1st, don't struggle, there is no wrong decision. You would be happy with either. To be honest, with the crap wind we've had the past year my Freeride has had by far the most use. It rips & you won't outgrow it. I'd much rather use it if it means I can get away with my small kite. The freeride would get going a good 1 knot earlier than the same size Tempo.
BTW the larger size Tempo wasn't available when I bought but I'd say that would be a good option also.
Cheers
COL
