Thanks to the friendly people at Windsurf and Snow I had a chance to try out the new 84 JP Freestyle Wave Pro Edition today.
Wind was 15-20 knts with the occasional higher gust. Location Botany Bay (pretty flat). I was on a 5.4 and after winter eating now border on being fat (read 100+ kg).
First impression was that the board feel biggers than the 84 moniker suggests. The board got going surprisingly quick and immediately felt free and loose. There doesn't seem to be much of a semi planing state actually. As soon as the board get's going it accalerates and feels very fast. It should be possible to use sail sizes up to 6 sqm with this board.
I tried a number of different radius turns. With medium to wide turns the board just glides through the entire turn without much effort. It doesn't seem to be as sensitive to getting the balance right as last years board either. It's also quite easy to snap the board around very tight turns. I haven't checked the rocker but it would interresting to try this board in some actual waves.
Overall this is a real improvement over last years board. You also notice the 1 kg weight reduction of the Pro Edition on the water. I assume the loose feel while riding and jumping is due to the weight loss. The new kevlar constuction provides a very stiff over feel.
Damn... now I need upgrade my 93 FSW from last season. Anyone interested in a 93 FSW in presten condition?
Note to self: must loose some of that winter fat.
PS: I am taking the board back tomorrow... so pop into the shop over the weekend. I am sure Chris or Sam will let have a go on it... not that I think these boards will sit for long in the shop.
