Windsurf Magazine 72 - 79 lt board test - Hardcore Wave S 2006

17th Oct 2005 @ 01:05:51 PM

At a Glance:
The Hardcore Wave series has been in RRD’s line-up for a number of years now, with this, the latest model coming steeped in a pedigree of classic wave specialist shapes.
The second largest of a four-board line-up, the Small packs in 75L, most of which is distributed between the front straps and mast-track. Very rounded in plan-shape, with a highly domed pin-tail and tucked rails that thin down dramatically in the rear, it is a particularly attractive and dedicated looking
wave design, although its new livery goes some way to playing down its aggressive nature. Produced in the latest sandwich technology, it is finished superbly, with contoured deckpads, excellent DaKine Primo straps and a 21cm Maui Fin Co fin.

Ride and Handling:
On the water the RRD quickly rose onto the plane, responding well to the delivery of power and requiring little technical expertise to release fficiently. Fast and lively in a straight-line, it provides ample response to captivate even the most forceful pilot, yet nevertheless has an easy tempered nature
about its stance, its tail maintaining contact with the water at all times without sticking, whilst the rider’s feet are held comfortably in the straps, conveying a sense of control and security. The deckpads also help to enhance
this feeling of composure, absorbing much of the harsh feedback from rough sea states and allowing the sailor to concentrate solely on their own performance. As such the Hardcore has very impressive wind range, with the immediacy and speed to make the most of less than ideal conditions, yet retaining its manners and ease to handle severe environments.

Manoeuvres:
The best way to describe the Hardcore Wave’s character in the turn is with the word ‘smooth’. It is supremely smooth through the bottom turn, providing masses of potential to explore. Easy to initiate, the board simply
glides through the arc as if on rails, never for a moment hinting of spinning out or stalling on its shoulders. More versatile and userfriendly than its predecessor, it adapts effortlessly to any rider style, from tutoring the
inexperienced through to satisfying the most ardent or demanding professional sailor, holding its speed in the tightest of turns, ready for an explosive top turn. With speed, energy and control on its side, it is also an
excellent proposition for charging around in search of ramps, boosting impressive aerials whilst feeling light and manageable in the air.

For:
Ease, versatility and endless performance potential. Fittings and finish

Against:
We are struggling to fault it in any way!

Verdict:
With masses of wind range, control, ease and the highest performance oozing from every fibre of this Hardcore Wave’s form, it has incredible user appeal and as such comes very highly recommended.

Windsurf Magazine testing the Harcore Wave