Windsurf Magazine FSW 101 (2006) Another top test !!!

18th Jan 2006 @ 07:44:36 PM

At a Glance The Freestyle Wave 101 from RRD is the second largest in a five-board line-up, designed to excel in any role and environment, from flat water to waves. With a smooth round outline, it looks very much like a large wave-board at first glance, although closer inspection reveals a lot of rocker flat before a steep increase in nose rocker, which starts in line with the shoulders. Shorter and more compact than its predecessor, it retains the bevel in the tail for improved slide and tight transitions. Produced in CHK (custom made using High Modulus Kevlar fibres) sandwich technology, the 101 boasts bright bold graphics and a polished finish on the hull, giving it a visually stunning appearance that oozes quality and style. Ride and Handling Up and on the plane with little persuasion, the 101 is exceptionally comfortable and smooth underfoot – a feeling consistent with all the RRD boards we’ve tried so far this year. This is partly due to the design itself but also due to the dual density contoured deckpads that cushion the ride over chop superbly. Releasing well and driving off the fin, the nose of the 101 rides high as if hunting, giving it quite a lively yet poised stance in the water, feeling ready to be thrown into the next manoeuvre at any time. Set up with outboard straps there is plenty of feedback from the fin to load the board and push it to a respectable speed, and although we certainly don’t feel it’s a true blaster by nature, the 101 can comfortably be used for straight-line work, coming into its own when the sea state becomes more testing. Manoeuvres It’s when you start playing around on the FSW that you begin to realise what it’s all about. Exhibiting the qualities akin to a large wave board, it seems to instinctively engage an edge as it is banked into a turn, holding a smooth yet precise arc. Get forward and drive it into the turn with more aggression, and it will respond with a fearsome level of grip, the rider really feeling the rails as they slice through the water. In freestyle, the 101 surprised us with its ability, popping energetically and sliding predictably on its wide shoulders, providing good control through the trickiest part of the transition. With its smooth comfortable gliding style, unwavering composure and controlled response, the 101 is one of the most versatile boards we have ever used, making it a very practical all-round board for intermediates and experts alike. For: Smooth riding style and incredible versatility. Against: Flat-water freeride sailors may find the ultimate top speed slightly lacking.

FSW101 2006 FSW 101 2006