I am getting back into sailing after a few years out.Live in Newcastle near Lake Mac.
Previously ridden slalom wave boards (Prosail from Cronulla - Ken Dures shaper)many moons ago.
Currently about 90kg.
Need some advice not looking for latest and greatest just need to get back on the water.
Can waterstart,gybe etc.
Thinking of buying Bic techno with sailworks 8.5 and 5.8 kit or Mistral flow with KA 5.8 kit.

Please help !!

Halfahenry

Go with the flow ........and sink!

If you only want to go out over around 15-18 knots, fine with 105 and 5.8m2, 'cause that's what you'll need.

Get both boards and you will get out in anything. The Bic is a great all-round board and IS fun, and will handle some pretty strong wind with your weight and experience. It would be a better board for you if you only want 1 board for all conditions.

Good luck and welcome back!

I have a Tiga FreeX 152 litre which is identical to the Bic Techno only yellow/orange with a full rear deck pad - loved the board in my earlier days - positive is that theyre almost indestructible (except for the nose!) due to plastic skin. But have since got a 2006 Kinetic Gladiator 115 litres. The board is 250 long by 68 wide - so its as wide as the Techno giving early planing; but being shorter, lighter etc. makes it much more maneuverable. The Gladiator handles about 5.2 - 9 metres. They recommend 8.5 - but I put my 9 metre V8 on it and it works fine - so one board carries a wide wind range/ strengths. I have pretty much fallen in love with this board - its just well balanced; easy to ride; fast - pretty much all the things you could want. I am just over 100 kgs. and there is enough reserve volume in it for me. The 152 litres of the Techno/FreeX is almost overkill, as it is much more than you will need as the wind picks up. Dont get me wrong - I still have my FreeX, and keep it for very light wind days when I can practice tricks on it etc.- but once you try a Kinetic Gladiator you will never look back!

I got a second hand Techno 283 a couple of years ago when I took up the sport.I still drag it out with an 8 meter sail when it's a bit light,great board and I'll never sell it as it's another excuse to get out on the water when there is not enough wind for my smaller gear.Also a great board to loan out to family and learners to try and experience that planning high.