In addition to the Spitfire model (HERE is a test) manufacturer Axis has a foil for ambitious wingfoilers in its programme with the ART V2. The test reveals the differences and which model is better for you.
On land
The ART V2 front wings are available in three sizes, the specifications of 999, 939 and 879 refer to the span in millimetres. The 999 we tested has an actual surface area of 1038 cm2 and, typical of the ART V2 line, a high aspect ratio of 9.9. The slim profile and high aspect ratio should make the foil very efficient. We have combined the front wing with the Axis Black Short Fuselage (69.9 cm) and two different stabilisers - the 350 Progressive and the 300 Progressive.
As usual with Axis, the workmanship of the ART V2 is also impressive across the board. The wings sit precisely on the fuselage and the screw lengths are printed on the spot to avoid confusion. To reinforce the connection between the mast and fuselage, a flat connecting piece is inserted into the mast and the connection itself is secured with two thick M10 bolts. The mounting plate of the mast allows the screws to be inserted from the side to save time when mounting the foil on the board. The plate also has additional holes to allow the foil to be pushed far forwards or backwards in short boxes. Axis always includes matching covers for the wings in the scope of delivery - these are also necessary, as the ART V2 has razor-sharp wing tips that are better not to come into contact with on land.
On the water
The Axis ART V2 requires experience and a feel for the foil when starting off. If you go too high too soon, you will quickly sink back to the surface of the water, as the speed at which the foil is stable is significantly higher than with the Spitfire and BSC models. Therefore, when pumping up, first get up to speed and then take off with gentle pressure on the tail. Once in the air, the ART V2 accelerates powerfully to top speed. In general, the speed level of this foil is impressive and even a touch higher than that of the Axis Spitfire, for example. However, the ART V2 also needs to be stabilised with more sensitivity; the foil is certainly not a stable cruiser. Our clear recommendation in this respect is the 350 stabiliser, which we also tested. 300 Progressive We found the back wing to be noticeably too small. Pleasing: Even at high speed, the foil hardly develops a tendency to push uncontrollably towards the water surface, but remains easy to control.
The radii are surprisingly smooth; despite the generous wingspan of almost one metre, the ART V2 can be steered through all manoeuvres with just a little pressure. Although the radii are not as tight as those of the Spitfire, foil 360s, jibes and turns are still excellent. The absolute strength of the ART V2 is undoubtedly its glide. Even on knee- to waist-high swells, you can fly along almost endlessly. The foil also reaches a high speed, allowing you to overtake swells from behind and pump yourself onto the next wave face.
Axis ART V2 - the conclusion
The ART V2 convinces as a very fast foil with the best glide. Endless rides on swell waves are possible with it - if you like downwinders, this is the ideal overall package. However, in order to utilise its potential, you should be able to start, pump and jibe safely, as the ART V2 is particularly demanding when starting off. As an all-round foil for freeriding, jumping and occasional downwinders, the sister model Spitfire and, above all, the smaller sizes of the Axis BSC line appear to be much more balanced.
Glide, speed, equipment
Sharp wingtips
Suitability for foil beginners
Axis ART V2 - technical data
- Test model: Axis ART V2 999
- Front wing area: 1038 cm2
- Front wing span99.9 cm (aspect ratio 9.9)
- Back wing area: 180 cm2
- Wingspan back wing: 35.0 cm
- Fuselage (aluminium): Black Series Short (69.9 cm)
- Mast (aluminium): 82 cm
- Price test set: 1744 Euro
- Weight set (own measurement): 4.31 kg
- Contact: To the website
- Scope of delivery: Cover, screws, tools
- Special features: -
