Axis BSC 970 - the wingsurf all-round foil in the test

Manuel Vogel

 · 01.01.2022

Axis BSC 970 - the wingsurf all-round foil in the test
Photo: Marius Gugg
The Axis BSC 970 is designed to combine easy handling, speed and control. Read the test to find out for which target group this foil concept works.

Manufacturer Axis supplies all water sports segments with a wide range of foils. The BSC line - BSC stands for "Broad Spectrum Carve" - is intended to appeal to the largest target group and, depending on the selected wing size, can be used for prone surfing, kiting, wing foiling or SUP foiling. In general, the Axis foil range has a modular structure, and many front and rear wings, masts and fuselages can be combined.

Precise fit and high quality - the Axis BSC 970 on land:

We tested the Axis BSC 970, a foil with a 1572 cm2 front wing and a medium aspect ratio that combines easy handling with decent speed potential and is therefore recommended for both wingfoil beginners and advanced wingers.

At a measured 4.85 kilos, the BSC 970 is not light as a feather, but is within the normal range. However, the weight is more than acceptable given the above-average robustness of the workmanship. The 80 centimetre foil mast sits bombproof in the fuselage via a precisely fitting head and is fixed in place with long M8 screws.

The connecting piece to the fuselage is inserted into the mast, thereby stiffening the connectionPhoto: Manuel VogelThe connecting piece to the fuselage is inserted into the mast, thereby stiffening the connection

The connections between the wings and the fuselage also appear to be rock-solid and extremely precise - thick M8 Torx screws are also used here on the front wing. The carbon front wing sits on an aluminium fuselage that is widened at the front. The larger contact surface in this area is intended to better control the leverage forces that occur and improve durability during jumps and freestyle tricks.

The contact surface of the front wing has been widened, four screws fix the front wing to the fuselage

Another good idea: the screw lengths to be used are printed in the appropriate places, so there is no chance of confusion during assembly.

Compared to other foils on the market, the front wing of the BSC 970 - and therefore also the pressure point - sits a few centimetres further in front of the mast. This means that on most boards the Axis BSC 970 tends to be mounted in the rear third of the box. General tips for finding the right foil and strap position can be found here HERE .

On the water:

We tested the Axis BSC 970 with various boards (Kold-Shapes, Patrik, Naish) and wings (RRD, Ocean Rodeo, Vayu). In every case, we were impressed by the extremely predictable characteristics when taking off.

The take-off of the Axis BSC 970 is very predictable and harmoniousPhoto: Manuel VogelThe take-off of the Axis BSC 970 is very predictable and harmonious

When accelerating, the foil builds up pressure evenly, lifts off gently and remains stable even at low speeds, a characteristic that benefits both in manoeuvres and when pumping on small swells.

Around the longitudinal axis, the Axis BSC 970 is relatively directionally stable in the water in combination with the 400 rear wing. This means that it is not extremely playful in turns and other changes of direction, but requires a little more pressure. On the other hand, it offers a consistently good-natured ride in manoeuvres and is forgiving of the occasional misstep or load error. Our tip: If you like it a little more agile, you can also combine the foil with the slightly smaller rear wing (e.g. 390 or 370). The speed potential is absolutely impressive for foils of this type and size, jumps and first freestyle tricks are also easily possible with the BSC 970.

Even jumps are no problem with the BSC 970Photo: Manuel VogelEven jumps are no problem with the BSC 970

Of course, the speed potential of this foil is inevitably utilised in gusts, but fortunately the BSC 970 never has the tendency to rise uncontrollably.

Conclusion:

The Axis BSC 970 Foil has a high-quality finish and covers a wide range of use and wind conditions with a great combination of lift, control and speed. It is suitable for relaxed freeriding as well as for first jumps and tricks and for surfing moderate swell waves, making it ideal for a wide target group.

Accuracy of fit; Range of use; Easy to surf

Higher price

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