hi
Iam looking at getting a freestyle freeride board i sail in bump and jump conditions 15 to 25knt winds the kinetic gladiator 115 ltr seems to be a contender for me, does anyone out there have any experience with this board.
cheers tristan

I have a 115. It is ok in 15-20 knots with 7.5-8.0 (I am 90kg)... Don't want to put you off, but I don't think it would make a good bump and jump board.

TJB

An alternative to the Gladiator if you want a bit more bump and jump/wave but want similar volume is the Exocet Cross.

I bought the Exocet Cross 117 last October and have never looked back. As I push the scales at around the 110kg mark I always appreciate the extra volume. This board is nothing short of brilliant - planes through lulls, handles side-shore slop, half-mast waves fantastically, gibes easily and handles sails up to the 8m mark (apparently). This board certainly gives me more time on the water!

I am so happy with the Exocet I have just traded my 95l Fanatic for the 105l Exocet Exowave. This will now be my "small board" for days pushing the 30+knts.

If you are after a great all round with a bit of volume check it out. Apparently the Starboard Aero 117l is also very similar, and by reviews in windsurfingmag.com it is better suited to the slightly ligher sailor.

I'm on my Gladiator 115 whenever I can get out on the river, or Leighton. It's fast, real smooth and easy to jibe. I can sail it with anything between an 8.5 to a 6.3, that's 12 knots to 25 knots (gusting to 30) with my 95 kilo weight.

It's one hell of a board, and I expect to have it for quite some time.

Mark DeFriest
AUS 376

Great choice Tristan, I've had the 100 for over a year now and love it. Just does everything fantastic. The only board in my area faster, is a 90 Gladiator. I've been sailing 14 years, and everthing went up a notch with the Gladiator !
When the time comes, it'll be another Gladiator.

Cheers,
Bob.