JP-Australia Funster 160 ASA with centreboard
The JP double lies on the beach like a double lotty. The brochure specifications for length and width differed only by an invisible millimetre and no other difference can be seen with the naked eye - apart from equipment details and, of course, the blade. This seems to be an opportunity to directly compare two almost identical shapes with and without the centreboard.
On land: A pad several millimetres thick covers the entire deck, the nose is additionally reinforced with a cap. There are numerous strap options, the foremost of which are particularly useful for intermediates. The fairly short fin fits well with the centreboard set-up. For frequent planing in stronger winds, a fin of around 46 to 50 centimetres would be more suitable.
On the water: Compared to the Fun Ride, the Funster has all kinds of useful accessories on board - the full-length deck pad, carrying handle, bow protection cap and centreboard - but this is also reflected on the scales and is noticeable on the water. In displacement mode, the centreboard provides noticeable support when going upwind, and even those with less surfing experience can get back upwind quickly.
However, the difference is not as great as between the two Fanatic boards. The wide board is very stable both lengthways and crossways and carries even 80-kilo beginners safely, and there is also enough room to turn on the almost 2.60 metre long board. With the solid protective equipment, you don't have to worry about the board and can have a go. And, as we all know, the best way to practise is relaxed. However, if glide surfing is at the top of your list of priorities, you should think very carefully about doing without the features and take a look at the Fun Ride. Because even in good planing conditions, the weight disadvantage always makes the Funster feel noticeably slower, the board planes later, doesn't accelerate quite as quickly and therefore builds up a little more sail pull before it really gets going freely and quickly. Even in the foremost loop positions, you can glide in a relaxed manner, with the best controllability and without being overwhelmed by the board.
Volume*: 161 L Weight**: 13.7/15.9 kg Length*: 259.5 cm Width*: 80.0 cm Price: 1249 euros
* = surf measurement; **hull/incl. straps, fin, centreboard
Web: www.jp-autralia.com
