Windsurf May 2008 freerace reviews
2008/09 Tushingham Lightning 7.0m
This sail has quite a freeridey nature as opposed to a full on freerace feel, it supplies good, smooth power to the sailor who can deliver this easily into a board for quick results. The power feels progressive and extremely user-friendly. Power is developed early when the sail is up to speed, feels very light in the hands, the drive coming from low down and central to the rider, encouraging a relaxed stance, rather than a racey locked-in one. The sailor never feels intimidated by power from the sail, rather than feeling solid, the power is smooth and always there. Any extra power from gusts is channelled cleanly to the sailor, which is then easily applied into the board for great acceleration. As it gets more powered and even over-powered, the sail seems to breathe, the leech working well and the drive in the sail staying constant and available. The sail has a very good natural range and can also be tuned further through downhaul and outhaul for an even wider wind range. In transitions the sail is very easy to handle: the foil slicing through the air in tacks, and rotating easily in gybes, the cams rotating so smoothly you hardly notice there presence, and the power coming on smoothly and progressively.
Verdict: Another incredibly wide-ranging sail from Tushingham, both for wind strengths and user groups, offering balanced, easily applied power and effortless handling.
Plus: Great natural range and user appeal, easy to rig and tune, and balanced handling in a straight line and in transition.
Negative: Hard to Fault, but more hardened freeracers looking for a solid, efficient foil might find the Lightning a little too smooth and easy for their tastes.
Cheers
2ndwind Sailboards
