(Please find what Windsurf UK has to say about the new Evo 83 in their
next issue, )
Starboard Evo 83
At a Glance
Evolved from the 80 for the new season, the 83 now incorporates a single
concave throughout much of its hull length, intended to improve its
speed and release by extending the rocker flat, without compromising the
board's turning potential. Short and wide, it has a rounded plan shape
and comes available in either Wood or D-Ram construction. Like the 74
tested last month, the 83 comes as standard with superb fittings,
including easily adjustable and comfortable straps, uni-directional
fish-scale pads with integrated heel bumpers, and a high performance CNC
milled G10 fin.
Ride and Handling
One of the quickest in the group onto the plane, the 83 accelerates
smoothly feeling balanced and lively underfoot. Displaying great
versatility and range, the rider can determine the manner in which they
sail, either locked in and driving every last bit of energy into the
hull, or sailing at half speed with an upright stance. Stable and
forgiving for the less experienced, it is also very user-friendly in
severe conditions, its thin tail maintaining contact with the water and
instilling a sense of control whilst others on boards of a similar size
would be struggling. As such it is more than capable of fulfilling the
role as a coastal freeride board.
For a testride call 2nd wind sailboards 93172916
Manoeuvres
It is in manoeuvres and more precisely, on the face of a wave, that the
83 really comes alight though. Extremely capable in the turn, it simply
goes round as if on rails, cutting a smooth accurate arc that will have
the most hardened wave rider salivating at the lips. What is more is
that it is not in the slightest critical to technique, responding to
either front or back-foot pressure and holding its speed superbly in
both tight and drawn-out arcs. With such ability through the turn, the
pilot is then compelled to push themselves, whereby the 83 lends a
helping hand once again, holding as much power and grip as you dare to
drive in, and firing you back up the face for aerials before you even
realise what's going on! As a one-only wave-riding machine for carrying
sails up to 5.8m and making the most of any wave environment, they don't
come much better than this stunning board.
For: Early planing, turning potential, fittings and user-friendliness.
Against: A stunningly versatile wave board that we just can't fault!
Verdict
The 83 amazed us with its ease and practicality, not to mention its
dynamite performance on the wave face. As a one-only wave board with a
massive wind range, it will enable riders of any ability to make the
most of a wave environment.
