Been investigating Shinn for my next board and thanks all for the great posts and info about Shinn on this forum.
Am seeking advice which board to choose from: Dundee or Monk 2012.
I am an intermediate kiter, not looking to do kiteloops or unhooked jumps, but do like jumps and tricks (backrolls, slides etc). I weigh 90kg, length 1.87m.
Am leaning towards Dundee, as it's a true freeride board. Size 135x44, or do you reckon the 133x42 is perhaps better for me...? Am I limiting myself too much with the Dundee and thus should pick the Monk since it's the x-over?
Before ordering I would love to hear from you all who have ridden these boards. I live in Netherlands and can't test them, but the reviews here on this forum have convinced me Shinn is the brand I want.
I am the same weight as you and after a demo i have ordered the 135 x 44 Dundee. I am replacing a North X-Ride 135 x 39 and i didnt feel i was riding a big board when using the Dundee.
The wind was low and offshore so not a good test but the board felt great so i am taking a chance and ordering - i was also able to chat with Mark Shinn about the board and i think i have made the right choice.
I don't think you will be limiting yourself - both board will do what you want but just in a slightly different way. The Monk is a freestyle board; however the type of freestyle it is designed for is high speed/power agressive riding and although the new Monk Forever does have improved mid-range it is still designed to be ridden like your hair is on fire!
I've not ridden a Dundee yet ( have ridden every other Shinn board) but if it is an improved Luigi II then it is definitely more relaxed in it's approach and handling - not to say it is dull but just a different feel, in fact feel is what this board delivers with a great connection to the water it handles very precisely and will still do everything you want of it.
Thanks all for the great feedback. Shinn Dundee it will be. Can't wait to get that board onto the water...!
Still deliberating which size would be best....135x44 or 133x42. Since I weigh 90kg and want to use the board in low range as well, I am leaning towards the 135x44.