The JP board achieves what would not be possible with any iSUP. It combines a 29 inch narrow centre section with a pointed, rounded bow from the racing development, with a low standing position and an expansive wide tail. All in all, this combines very good tipping stability with a top average speed. However, these board concepts with a lowered cockpit do not result in the lowest weights, even with the highest quality construction, as the surrounding rails mean a lot of additional surface area and therefore material usage.
However, this does not slow the GTS down. Standing just above water level, you can accelerate the board perfectly, maintain a high speed throughout and achieve very good results on the speedometer during sprints. You still feel like you're standing on the board between the fairly low board walls. This also makes you feel freer to climb far back for tight turns and this is achieved with very good tipping stability. Once loaded at the back, the GTS turns around the buoy really quickly and with very good stability - more stable than on any of the inflatables tested. This is really fun on the JP board. If you stop in the centre to turn around, the board at least turns properly. When handling it on land, 14 feet and a good 14 kilos seem a bit bulky, especially for smaller, more petite people.
Conclusion on the JP-Australia GTS Carbon 14'0" x 29":
An unusual outline for unusual riding characteristics for a very fast touring board and sports equipment with good tipping stability. Alternatively also available as the GT-S Biax for 1799 euros.
Average speed, top speed, tipping stability, load capacity.
Info:
- Price: 2690 Euro >> available here
- Length: 426.0 cm
- Width: 74.0 cm
- Weight: 14.4 kg
- Volume: 309 litres
