Rider: 100 kgs, beginner - intermediate
Weather: 11 - 25 knots (But predominantly 11 -16 Kts)
I presently have a great light wind board, but am now looking for one board that I can put in the travel bag to cover a wide range of conditions. (I’m living in Asia, and generally have to travel to kite, so can only take one board with me due to weight limitations) I’ve got two kites, a 16M and an 11m, which at my present ability level, gives me a wind range of roughly 11-27 Knots. Most of the time I’m battling the lower end of the wind range, so would like a board that has good light wind capability and upwind performance, but that can also be ridden up towards the higher end of the wind range without getting too sketchy. I realise everything is a compromise, so any opinions on a good ‘all round’ board that meets the majority of these specs, would be appreciated.
The following boards have popped up on the radar so far:
Nobile T5 140
Underground FLX 138
Airush Switch 144 (or 138?)
Thanks!
Im a little lighter and kite in HK most of the time so similar conditions to you . I use the 2008 underground 135 flx. Found it got going earlier than my 137x44 crazy fly raptor . Its pretty flat and seems to plane very fast creating more apparent wind etc etc . Have had it out in 35knts in Cape Town and Mauritius and still had a ball. The 138 will probably be to big for an all round board.
good luck
Best all round beginner to intermediate board this year would be the Nobile 555 09 in my opinion. If you kite in 11-16 mostly then the 140 is ideal and it will still handle 25 no worries.
The 555 has been excellent in chop, upwind ability is awesome, plains early, still plenty of tip flex for advanced riding and the toeside is really good. Have used in surf and flat water and it will handle both with no hassles.
Not bias as far as brands cause we can and do stock all the suggestions you mentioned, but the 555 has been a stand out for us this year.
Have ex demo 140 if you want more info email me.
George
i`m 90+ and ride an aboard z series board very similar to the noble 555 and both are brilliant boards mine is 136cm x 41 wide.rockets up wind and pops huge.the only down side to this board is the spray you get in the face when its choppy.mine is a 08 model so the o9 may have fixed this ask your local shop for a demo if they have one .
cheers.
Another vote for the '09 Nobile 555.)
It's got enough pop to be fun when your powered, it's soft enough on your knee's you can ride it in chop, and it holds power really well.
Only other board that springs to mind which is a little stiffer is the 666 EXT (or is the XT?) - the light wind 666, although i'd steer away from it if you ride in nasty chop as it can be harsh on the knees.
Thanks to all for your recommendations.
I just picked myself up a Nobile T5 140, and am very happy with it so far. 
Now I just need the wind Gods to help me get out on the new board a bit more!
Burls
