On land:The most noticeable change is certainly the shortened nose, which makes the new FSW significantly shorter and more compact. The board is supplied with a 30 cm long centre fin (power box), but can be optimised for wave use with a thruster set-up (not included!). The edges in the tail area have also been made thinner to improve turning. The strap positions reflect the intended range of use - a far inboard position for tricking and riding small waves is complemented by a moderately outboard position for accelerating.
On the water:We were able to test ride the board in typical bump & jump conditions on the Baltic Sea. The great thing is that the feel-good factor of its predecessor is also immediately apparent in the new model: Climb on, glide off and chase the board across the water. The gliding position is free, but without the board flying over the water in an uncontrolled or fidgety manner, even less experienced riders will immediately feel safe. In manoeuvres, the RRD can handle all radii - chasing through long race jibes with a lot of speed and grip on the edge works just as well as a tight radius against a small swell, even if you have to put a lot of pressure on the tail if the board is equipped with the long single fin. The great turning ability is probably also a result of the comparatively narrow tail and can be further increased for use in small waves with a thruster set-up. We recommend a centre fin with 20-22 cm and outer fins with ten to 12 cm.
surf conclusion:The all-rounder of the seas! Its performance, control and jibing qualities are top-notch, making it the perfect board for anyone who wants to cover the widest possible range of conditions with one board. Even a basic freestyle trick or a turn in the surf of the Baltic Sea are possible at any time.
RRD Freestyle Wave V4 96 LTD
Sizes:84/90/96/104 litresLengths: 228/229/234/234 cmWidths: 58/60/64/64 cmFinns:MFC Powerbox 25/28/30/32 cmPrices: 2349/2099 (LTD/Wood-Edition)Info: www.robertoriccidesigns.com
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
