Some time ago, we presented the Freeride Allround FoilAxis BSC 970 HERE presented. Compared to this all-rounder, which is optimised for comfort and control, theAxis HPS 980 The HPS is aimed at all those who are looking for a fast foil with a high aspect ratio for accelerating and jumping. The abbreviation "HPS" stands for "High Performance Speed" - a label that raises hopes on the one hand, but could also put off less experienced wingers. We tested how much performance the foil actually delivers and what compromises you have to make.
High-quality components, slimline wing design - the Axis HPS 980 on land:
The slim wing design ("High Aspect Ratio") of the HPS 980 makes the eyes of sporty wingsurfers light up at first sight. Axis developed the Black Fuselage to accommodate the thinly profiled front wing, which has a surface area of 1323 cm2 and a wingspan of 98 centimetres. This longitudinal member is compatible with all other HPS front wings and also the smaller sizes of the "Pump & Glide" series. Our test set included the Black Fuselage "Short" with a length of 70.3 centimetres and an 80 mm aluminium mast. Axis offers the Black Fuselage in other lengths on request.
The components of the Axis HPS 980 are of above-average quality. Both the connection of the mast to the mounting plate and to the fuselage impress with a perfect fit and high rigidity. The fuselage has been widened in the front area, which provides a large contact surface for the wing and allows it to be fixed with four screws - this is intended to take the edge off the high leverage forces during landings. Another clever feature is that the screw lengths to be used are printed directly on the wing - a good reminder during assembly.
On the water:
As is usual for a slim performance foil, the take-off speed is slightly higher than with thicker profiled foils, such as the previously tested Axis BSC 970. The Axis HPS 980 therefore requires a little more pumping when starting off, but then lifts off smoothly and - compared to other performance foils of this size - quite early. The acceleration is powerful and the foil reaches a good top speed, which encourages small funraces as well as jumps and freestyle tricks.
On a straight line, the HPS Foil with the tested "short fuselage" is already very stable, both around the longitudinal axis ("roll axis") and the transverse axis, the wing is so stable in the water that any reasonably experienced wingsurfer can handle it well. In manoeuvres, the Axis HPS 980 requires more pressure to steer into the turn due to its rather generous wingspan of 98 centimetres and the stretched wing shape. The foil is less fond of really tight hooks, whether on the wave or in manoeuvres. Instead, one of the foil's absolute strengths is its planing characteristics; in manoeuvres, the foil continues to fly endlessly at almost undiminished speed even without pulling the wing. This strength also comes into its own on small swells; even knee-high lines are enough to enjoy long flights.
Conclusion:
The Axis HPS 980 is a very high-quality foil with a wide range of uses, from sporty freeriding and freestyle to surfing long swells. Even less experienced wingfoilers need not be put off by the name "High Performance Speed", as the foil also shines with good controllability and, in relation to the surface area, a very early take-off. Ideally, the HPS 980 should be combined with flatter profiled and therefore faster wings in order to fully utilise its high speed potential.
Speed; gliding properties; accuracy of fit
Higher price
