QLD
51 posts
most of my paddling has been in the surf but am considering getting into a race board and wondering whether the Fanatic 12'6" x 30" or the 12'6" x 27 3/4" would be the best choice and whether carbon is worth the extra money. I am 5"9" and 82kg and want it for fitness and to race maybe later on. Any other recommendations would be appreciated.
QLD
1205 posts
At 82kg, you should be fine on the 27 3/4" width. It's faster and lighter than the wider version and a great all around race board for flatwater and surf. It only comes in Carbon so that makes the construction and easy choice.
Try to demo one if you can to make sure it suits before you buy it.
WA
846 posts
I agree with Ali Cat, the 27 3/4 would be the right board for your weight. The 12'6 x 30 is not a slow board if you are over 90kg, in fact it is one of the fastest, stable race boards on the market for the heavier paddler.
VIC
1299 posts
I can agree with the 12'6 being a fast board for us bigger lads. I am loving my new one.
WA
354 posts
Hi KiteSUP,
Both boards are fast but it depends a lot on your weight. I think less than 75kg and the 12'6" narrow is as fast as they get. For me at 90kg, the narrow isn't as fast as other boards. When I see lighter riders paddling it hard, it's a force to be reckoned with!
I have renewed enthusiasm for the 12'6" x 30.5" after giving it a good hard paddle recently, the Carbon one boggies big time and for a heavier rider is much faster than the narrow and definately more stable.
Both are good for training, but for ultimate speed and racing, you really need to demo both boards with a GPS watch on to be sure as both bow's are very different and they give the feel of speed differently from each other.
Cheers,
DM
QLD
1287 posts
hi mate,
both 12'6 fanatics are good boards, it just depends on what your looking at doing??
I paddled the 12'6 X 30 carbon last season and its a great stable down-wind racer,
where as the new 12'6 x 27 1/4 is a more flat water raceboard.
saying that its quite nice in a down wind situation, but is far more work and far less stable.
As ali said, try and demo some, there is also a few of both for sale in the buy and sell.
(1 major plus i found the 12'6 X 30 carbon has over the 12'6 x 27 1/4 is that its far stronger, the new 12'6 race needs to be looked after)
enjoy.
and welcome to the team red family
QLD
51 posts
thanks everyone will get out their and demo them
