On 2002-08-22 21:11, Anonymous wrote:
Dwight, thanks for the info. Why do you think 4 little fins have much effect on speed? When I am powered, Usually just the back fins are really in the water. The fins are small and are nothing like the monster blades used by some screaming fast windsurfers. I have certainly heard this before from others, but was wondering if someone had some rationale why. I have a mess of fins on my boards and have never tried popping some off. I would assume that you would have to edge more if you have fewer fins. Doesn't this increase drag alot? How about a sharp edge (eg: Slingshot) as opposed to a softer rail. I am interested in the Underground. I have seen you comment on it before. My recollection is that you got it a bit wider thatn is standard. Big difference?
Thanks,
Gary
Yeah I did order mine wider than standard. I was looking for max light wind performance. Two years ago I owned a Hana Crew with 7 fins. I recently tried my friends Hana to see if my memories of the board were still correct. Yep it’s slow, and you can hear the fins making noise.
When I tried a Slingshot I was shocked at how slow it was too. I suggested the owner try it with only 4 fins. Now he and the other local SS riders use 4 fins. They say it’s faster and more fun.
I also agree a directional could be even faster, but you said TT, so I’m restricting my recommendations to those.
For what it’s worth, I’m thinking about going shorter on my light wind wave tray. The 157 feel’s long and clumsy to me. I just heard Martin Vari is getting a 110 WT. I guess the trend in boards is getting shorter and shorter. I really like the feel of the 147 length. It’s true running length is 138, so it feels like a 138 when you ride it. I may get a wide 147 and sell the 157.
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Dwight on 2002-08-22 22:01 ]</font>
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Dwight on 2002-08-22 22:02 ]</font>