windtzu wrote:My question is the proverbial question - which size?
I saw a chart for size / weight: I weigh 158 lbs, so the 131 x 41 is the call.
I spoke with a Shinn rep who suggested that the one size up would be ideal - 133 x 42 for me, and that it would have a better low end and an equal high wind control as the North X-Ride 135 x 29 in thirty plus (mph winds). He also feels that I might find the 131 x 41 on the smaller side and give up too much range on the lower end. I find the North X-Ride suits my needs on the lower end and wonder what the comparison is range wise - apples to apples that is > this would give me a frame of reference. I tend to use my directionals when the wind is in the 10-15 mph range anyhow.
At 158lb/72kg I'd say your ideal was 40 wide if you ride powered, 41 if you ride all and frequent lighter winds. The 42 is my ideal all-round size and I'm 83kg, so I think that although it will go very early, the 42 may be pushing the upper side if you plan on taking power and speed on a regular basis.
windtzu wrote:Someone else mentioned that the 133 x 42 would be too big for my weight in high winds...another someone my size says it would work. ???
It would work, and it feels small for it's size, but it's not optimal unless you are shaky on your feet / in need of eeking out every last bit of lightwind performance for the majority of your riding...
windtzu wrote:Does 2 cm in length and 1 cm in width make that much of a difference? There does seem to be a much bigger difference comparing my X-Ride's 39 cm width to the Dundee's > different board design I suppose, so it's harder to compare.
The natural rangeis very big so the world will not end if you get the choice wrong. It's say the Dundee goes well for those who go 2 sizes over - it has such balance that it does very well with those who choose to ride boards that are a lot bigger than their weight demands...
It's short and has very flexible tips. The weight distribution is so even you can ride with a LOT of power for hours without ever feeling it. It's also why the width also feels less than the numbers when compared to other boards. All in all feels small, balanced and lively, yet remains very practical. Width makes the size, length is relevant to the stance (which on a freeride board like the Dundee does not need to be huge unless you are very tall), and has little effect on the planing ability/size.