Thinking about buying an efoil,either Fliteboard or lift

Are they a novelty thing that gets boring after awhile?.like a jet ski,or are they fun???

Lift have a folding prop so apparently on a swell you can surf,like a normal foil.

Ive heard Fliteboard are developing something so similar.

If anyone has any experience with them,I'd like to hear about it

thanks

Guys out here in LA like LIFT mostly. The folding prop helps, but you're still riding a heavy board. Also guys typically remove the prop guard once they're good which gives you 30% more battery life and feels much better they claim. It's still not going to be like prone boards. However, if you have a wave with a long open swell line it looks terribly fun. A couple of the guys have quit normal surfing and foiling and just e foil now.

Here's a fun clip pulled off a surfline camera. Man vs Machine. It shows an Efoil and how they work in the surf. They're not allowed near surfers or swimmers around here.

www.instagram.com/p/CI1KJXDDPsN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

No doubt anyone who has one, or are trying to sell them, will tell you how much fun they are.

I have no interest in them at all myself, they are never going to compare to a normal foil for actually riding a swell or wave due to the huge amount of extra weight from the battery and even a folding prop will create a lot of drag.

On a regular foil you can feel the drag when there is even 1 strand of ribbon weed on your foil.

IMO the extra weight and drag would go directly against what I love about foiling, however for someone who has never foiled before I have no doubt they would be a heap of fun, at least for a while.

Select to expand quote

Hdip said..
Guys out here in LA like LIFT mostly. The folding prop helps, but you're still riding a heavy board. Also guys typically remove the prop guard once they're good which gives you 30% more battery life and feels much better they claim. It's still not going to be like prone boards. However, if you have a wave with a long open swell line it looks terribly fun. A couple of the guys have quit normal surfing and foiling and just e foil now.

Here's a fun clip pulled off a surfline camera. Man vs Machine. It shows an Efoil and how they work in the surf. They're not allowed near surfers or swimmers around here.

www.instagram.com/p/CI1KJXDDPsN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Thx for the time and input Hdip

The clip was cool,I would think in oz the same rules as jet skis would apply to a efoil 90 meters from swimmers and surfers.

And I thought our breaks were crowded.

We get big east coast lows which create huge swell and they would be fun on an efoil

Select to expand quote

tightlines said..
No doubt anyone who has one, or are trying to sell them, will tell you how much fun they are.

I have no interest in them at all myself, they are never going to compare to a normal foil for actually riding a swell or wave due to the huge amount of extra weight from the battery and even a folding prop will create a lot of drag.

On a regular foil you can feel the drag when there is even 1 strand of ribbon weed on your foil.

IMO the extra weight and drag would go directly against what I love about foiling, however for someone who has never foiled before I have no doubt they would be a heap of fun, at least for a while.

I wing and sup foil,I'm not the greatest,but at 66yrs old, I fart and giggle and have a **** load of fun ,fall arse over head and still get up laughing .

I know what your saying,but Im retired and some days and high tide, the swell pushing in thru the river mouth,is just begging to be ridden

they're like me slow and fat,you can't paddle into them ,even a 14' has trouble, so my next thought was an efoil.

Im just trying to find out if people use them and for what purpose.

At 17k they're cheaper and easier then a jet ski.

thx, I appreciate the time and effort in the reply.

Just copied some of my comments on this from another thread

I've owned a Fliteboard for about 9 months and there are a few annoyances that most people are not aware of prior to buying an eFoil.

Firstly in WA (and several other states) according to the DoT because they have a motor, eFoils are classed as a 'vessel' meaning you have to legally get a HIN plate attached ($100) register them ($150pa) and display rego stickers

Secondly being that they are vessels, technically they have to abide by speed limits. So for example most of the Perth metro coastline has an 8kn limit from the beach - 200m offshore, which isn't even fast enough to get up and foiling.

Thirdly, although Fliteboard managed to get some concessions on boat safety equipment that align with windsurfers/kiters, the DoT overlooked the practical use case, and nearly all of the local councils (Cambridge/Cottesloe/Stirling) have local laws that say something along the lines of "a 'boat' can only be launched from a designated boat ramp" which translates to you not being allowed to carry this 25kg board down to any beach, walk into the water and have a session

Plus because this thing is an attention magnet that on a flat, clear day can be seen from kilometres away it's pretty hard to be discrete about using it! Especially since I am now a known entity hahaha!

Rant over

On the positive side, removing the prop duct gives you an increase of ~20% ride time/range and also speed (~50kph top) and most importantly the board handles much better. I'm 75kg on the 70L Pro board with the ~900sqcm Flyer wing I can solidly ride for over 65 minutes with 10% battery remaining for a total range of 25km on flat water. The board has tilt detection which effectively cuts the prop immediately when the mast hit's a certain angle which nobody could physically still be on the board and in theory before you've even hit the water

I've sessioned waves and like tighlines and others have mentioned the body positioning and the weight and drag make for a different feel which is definitely more cumbersome than pure foiling and you nearly always need to have the prop idling, (unless you're Keahi!) but you can just get off a wave, whip around, pull the trigger to punch back through and line up the next one.

I take it out in +20kn seabreeze open ocean wind chop regularly now and even though you could be on a kite or wing it was still surprisingly easy and fun. I've been having 90 minute sessions and running 25km downwinders lately

And on the flip side exploring places I wouldn't even consider riding when it is glassy is a pretty cool experience too.

And yes, you can tow other foils if you want to

Are they are hell expensive? Most definitely! But the build quality is great, their customer service is outstanding and not many brands stick by a 2 year warranty. I've accidentally hit turtles, reef and rocks, banged it manhandling it to and fro boats and dropped it, so I'm pretty confident in the durability.

Besides the stupid government limitations, the entire reason I bought it was to maximise my time on the water regardless of the conditions and I ride mine almost every day, so I don't regret it.

My suggestion would be to try before you buy have a demo at one of the many schools on the East Coast. Lift and Flite are well represented

Flite definitely have new wings coming out soon, as for the folding prop I am unsure if they will copy Lift although there is definitely demand for both that and a smaller 4'4"-ish sized board from them

Check out my Instagram page - instagram.com/paularityfromabove for some follow drone shots I've been putting up

Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Select to expand quote

paularity said..
Just copied some of my comments on this from another thread

I've owned a Fliteboard for about 9 months and there are a few annoyances that most people are not aware of prior to buying an eFoil.

Firstly in WA (and several other states) according to the DoT because they have a motor, eFoils are classed as a 'vessel' meaning you have to legally get a HIN plate attached ($100) register them ($150pa) and display rego stickers

Secondly being that they are vessels, technically they have to abide by speed limits. So for example most of the Perth metro coastline has an 8kn limit from the beach - 200m offshore, which isn't even fast enough to get up and foiling.

Thirdly, although Fliteboard managed to get some concessions on boat safety equipment that align with windsurfers/kiters, the DoT overlooked the practical use case, and nearly all of the local councils (Cambridge/Cottesloe/Stirling) have local laws that say something along the lines of "a 'boat' can only be launched from a designated boat ramp" which translates to you not being allowed to carry this 25kg board down to any beach, walk into the water and have a session

Plus because this thing is an attention magnet that on a flat, clear day can be seen from kilometres away it's pretty hard to be discrete about using it! Especially since I am now a known entity hahaha!

Rant over

On the positive side, removing the prop duct gives you an increase of ~20% ride time/range and also speed (~50kph top) and most importantly the board handles much better. I'm 75kg on the 70L Pro board with the ~900sqcm Flyer wing I can solidly ride for over 65 minutes with 10% battery remaining for a total range of 25km on flat water. The board has tilt detection which effectively cuts the prop immediately when the mast hit's a certain angle which nobody could physically still be on the board and in theory before you've even hit the water

I've sessioned waves and like tighlines and others have mentioned the body positioning and the weight and drag make for a different feel which is definitely more cumbersome than pure foiling and you nearly always need to have the prop idling, (unless you're Keahi!) but you can just get off a wave, whip around, pull the trigger to punch back through and line up the next one.

I take it out in +20kn seabreeze open ocean wind chop regularly now and even though you could be on a kite or wing it was still surprisingly easy and fun. I've been having 90 minute sessions and running 25km downwinders lately

And on the flip side exploring places I wouldn't even consider riding when it is glassy is a pretty cool experience too.

And yes, you can tow other foils if you want to

Are they are hell expensive? Most definitely! But the build quality is great, their customer service is outstanding and not many brands stick by a 2 year warranty. I've accidentally hit turtles, reef and rocks, banged it manhandling it to and fro boats and dropped it, so I'm pretty confident in the durability.

Besides the stupid government limitations, the entire reason I bought it was to maximise my time on the water regardless of the conditions and I ride mine almost every day, so I don't regret it.

My suggestion would be to try before you buy have a demo at one of the many schools on the East Coast. Lift and Flite are well represented

Flite definitely have new wings coming out soon, as for the folding prop I am unsure if they will copy Lift although there is definitely demand for both that and a smaller 4'4"-ish sized board from them

Check out my Instagram page - instagram.com/paularityfromabove for some follow drone shots I've been putting up

Paularity,

thanks for the time and effort put into the reply,

I intend to go up the Gold Coast for a trial run,they have both 5'7" and 5'

I like you ,want to spend more time on the water,bowls and golf don't suit me.

Im waiting for a reply from Maritime safety on the rules for an efoil.

I liked your instagram page.

thx again for your effort

Select to expand quote

juandesooka said..
Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Juandesooka,

Jet skis ,wave runners,in my opinion are noisy,and in oz you need an observer to tow in.So pretty hard during a week day to find another 2 people who want to tow in foil.We have a lot of trouble with over inked idiots, who have no respect for other surfers and marine animals who ride skis.

there has been a huge change in technology eg foling prop,shorter boards, more efficient wings.

Can they surf them,definitely, as previously stated they are heavy,but newer technology eg lighter batteries will make them close to a manual powered foils.

I thought ebikes were a cop out,to easy to ride,no real benefit,but I now see people who wouldn't have thought about riding out enjoying life ,losing weight and getting fitter ,healthier.

I have seen a YouTube video where an efoil towed a sup foiler into a wave.

Its just a toy to maximize my time on the water,but I wanted to know peoples thoughts on if you would use them all the time.

thx for your reply

NSW legislation, sorry it has not copied very well.


Motor powered hydrofoil board

In NSW these ed hydrofoil board is a power driven vessel that operates on a foil and keel system with a propeller and a choice of output power 'wing'. The vessel is designed to be operated by a person standing on the hull. The maximum speed of the vessel varies with the 'wing' type selected.In NSW these vessels are classified under the Marine Safety Act 1998 as a personal watercraft (PWC).Exemption from certain requirementsOperators of motor powered hydrofoil boards are exempt from certain requirements that ordinarily apply to operators of a personal watercraft in clause 140(1) of the Marine Safety Regulation 2016, given the lower risks associated with the use of these vessels.For more information, see NSW Government Notices dated 29 March 2019.The exemption to the regulation ceases to apply if a motor powered hydrofoil board operates at a speed above 25 knots, when the full requirements relating to PWC will apply.Use on NSW watersMotor powered hydrofoil boards are subject to the following special conditions under the exemption:They must not be operated in the Personal Watercraft Exclusion Zone (Sydney Harbour) unless a specific exemption is obtained.They must not be operated between sunset and sunrise.For the purposes of vessel registration, motor powered hydrofoil boards that require registration (engine size greater than 4.0 kilowatts) are classified as a vessel, not a personal watercraft. The owner and operator must ensure the vessel registration number is clearly displayed on each side of the vessel, in figures that are at least 50 millimetres high, and in a contrasting colour to the hull so that they are clearly distinguishable.Drivers/riders must wear an appropriate lifejacket for a PWC as specified in clause 120 of the Marine Safety Regulation 2016. Wearing highly visible clothing and lifejackets are strongly encouraged.Drivers/riders must hold a general boat driving licence if the vessel is operated at 10 knots or more.

See alsoLifejackets and safety equipmentExclusion and restriction zonesPersonal watercraft (PWC) restricted and ..
Look up for more information

Select to expand quote

warwickl said..
NSW legislation, sorry it has not copied very well.


Motor powered hydrofoil board

In NSW these ed hydrofoil board is a power driven vessel that operates on a foil and keel system with a propeller and a choice of output power 'wing'. The vessel is designed to be operated by a person standing on the hull. The maximum speed of the vessel varies with the 'wing' type selected.In NSW these vessels are classified under the Marine Safety Act 1998 as a personal watercraft (PWC).Exemption from certain requirementsOperators of motor powered hydrofoil boards are exempt from certain requirements that ordinarily apply to operators of a personal watercraft in clause 140(1) of the Marine Safety Regulation 2016, given the lower risks associated with the use of these vessels.For more information, see NSW Government Notices dated 29 March 2019.The exemption to the regulation ceases to apply if a motor powered hydrofoil board operates at a speed above 25 knots, when the full requirements relating to PWC will apply.Use on NSW watersMotor powered hydrofoil boards are subject to the following special conditions under the exemption:They must not be operated in the Personal Watercraft Exclusion Zone (Sydney Harbour) unless a specific exemption is obtained.They must not be operated between sunset and sunrise.For the purposes of vessel registration, motor powered hydrofoil boards that require registration (engine size greater than 4.0 kilowatts) are classified as a vessel, not a personal watercraft. The owner and operator must ensure the vessel registration number is clearly displayed on each side of the vessel, in figures that are at least 50 millimetres high, and in a contrasting colour to the hull so that they are clearly distinguishable.Drivers/riders must wear an appropriate lifejacket for a PWC as specified in clause 120 of the Marine Safety Regulation 2016. Wearing highly visible clothing and lifejackets are strongly encouraged.Drivers/riders must hold a general boat driving licence if the vessel is operated at 10 knots or more.

See alsoLifejackets and safety equipmentExclusion and restriction zonesPersonal watercraft (PWC) restricted and ..
Look up for more information

Thx Warwicki,

Interesting to see how you would attach registration numbers to the board.

Have you brought one yet??

If so,what's your opinion of them???

Further to above, I am now at session 8 on a Flightboard with prop guard removed for the last session.
I've had 2 sessions riding very small swells and one riding boat wake.
To over come drag I just run prop speed at swell speed to compensate for drag.
From my understanding folding props are not as efficient as normal props so a compromise.

With prop guard removed they are 10 times more fun ( well considerably more) and manouravable making carving on swell excellent.
Early days for me.
PS I kite and winging foil

When I first started foiling, I didn't know anyone who owned a boat. So would occasionally rent at a flat water place when no surf or wind was running. Taking out an efoil prior to winging or prone/SUP foiling helps for getting used to the strange sensation of popping up on foil. I think efoils have a place especially for beginners. Now that I've been winging and prone foiling - it will be 1 yr in August - I know more folks that own boats, that wing, prone, etc... Don't have a direct need now, so probably wouldn't use it as much.

Select to expand quote

warwickl said..
Further to above, I am now at session 8 on a Flightboard with prop guard removed for the last session.
I've had 2 sessions riding very small swells and one riding boat wake.
To over come drag I just run prop speed at swell speed to compensate for drag.
From my understanding folding props are not as efficient as normal props so a compromise.

With prop guard removed they are 10 times more fun ( well considerably more) and manouravable making carving on swell excellent.
Early days for me.
PS I kite and winging foil

Thx Warwicki,

I've read a number of your posts,yeah I know your a kiter and winger.

If you have time can you answer a few questions please.

Do you and will you use it if there is no wind???how much do you use it?

Are they something you'd get bored with???(mate paid $28k for a jet ski got bored with it sold it,couldn't find tow partners during the week,weekends got too busy)

What size board did you buy???

thx in advance

Honestly I think I'd rather just use an ebike for windless days. Water time is great but there are other ways to be in motion.

Select to expand quote

Fitzsup said..

juandesooka said..
Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Juandesooka,

Jet skis ,wave runners,in my opinion are noisy,and in oz you need an observer to tow in.So pretty hard during a week day to find another 2 people who want to tow in foil.We have a lot of trouble with over inked idiots, who have no respect for other surfers and marine animals who ride skis.

there has been a huge change in technology eg foling prop,shorter boards, more efficient wings.

Can they surf them,definitely, as previously stated they are heavy,but newer technology eg lighter batteries will make them close to a manual powered foils.

I thought ebikes were a cop out,to easy to ride,no real benefit,but I now see people who wouldn't have thought about riding out enjoying life ,losing weight and getting fitter ,healthier.

I have seen a YouTube video where an efoil towed a sup foiler into a wave.

Its just a toy to maximize my time on the water,but I wanted to know peoples thoughts on if you would use them all the time.

thx for your reply

Plus jet skis also require registration, fuel, maintenance and a trailer which also limits where you can launch them in a metro area and I agree they are pretty obnoxious! They definitely have their place and uses, but not really something you can ride solo

I've towed guys on 5' ding boards in flat water easily enough and we just used a ratchet strap haha!

www.instagram.com/p/CJANgMuD6sn/

If you do go Flite, I would recommend the Pro 5' board, sport (smaller) battery and getting the prop guard removal sleeve for the fuse for the best performance. I use both of their wings depending on the conditions, but the flyer most often

I don't believe Lift has an option for smaller batteries, but I would be on the 4'4" board with the folding prop for sure if I had one and their wing choices are currently more modular too which is cool

Here's some technical info from the app after my session yesterday when I was down winding the swell again

I can pump around and connect the dots on the lowest level 1 (out of 20) which when I'm foiling on a wave the efficiency of the motor is about 0.5kw of power required to keep you flying (of a maximum available 5kw power, so ~10%) and the prop is turning about 2k rpm (of a maximum peak 4650rpm so ~43%), the stall point is about 17kph on the flyer wing. Going directly upwind the output hovers around 1.3kw on level 4 with a similar average speed in both directions around 20-22kph

You can thumb through the different windows on the remote shows you things like remaining range etc.

Select to expand quote

paularity said..

Fitzsup said..

juandesooka said..
Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Juandesooka,

Jet skis ,wave runners,in my opinion are noisy,and in oz you need an observer to tow in.So pretty hard during a week day to find another 2 people who want to tow in foil.We have a lot of trouble with over inked idiots, who have no respect for other surfers and marine animals who ride skis.

there has been a huge change in technology eg foling prop,shorter boards, more efficient wings.

Can they surf them,definitely, as previously stated they are heavy,but newer technology eg lighter batteries will make them close to a manual powered foils.

I thought ebikes were a cop out,to easy to ride,no real benefit,but I now see people who wouldn't have thought about riding out enjoying life ,losing weight and getting fitter ,healthier.

I have seen a YouTube video where an efoil towed a sup foiler into a wave.

Its just a toy to maximize my time on the water,but I wanted to know peoples thoughts on if you would use them all the time.

thx for your reply

Plus jet skis also require registration, fuel, maintenance and a trailer which also limits where you can launch them in a metro area and I agree they are pretty obnoxious! They definitely have their place and uses, but not really something you can ride solo

I've towed guys on 5' ding boards in flat water easily enough and we just used a ratchet strap haha!

www.instagram.com/p/CJANgMuD6sn/

If you do go Flite, I would recommend the Pro 5' board, sport (smaller) battery and getting the prop guard removal sleeve for the fuse for the best performance. I use both of their wings depending on the conditions, but the flyer most often

I don't believe Lift has an option for smaller batteries, but I would be on the 4'4" board with the folding prop for sure if I had one and their wing choices are currently more modular too which is cool

Here's some technical info from the app after my session yesterday when I was down winding the swell again

I can pump around and connect the dots on the lowest level 1 (out of 20) which when I'm foiling on a wave the efficiency of the motor is about 0.5kw of power required to keep you flying (of a maximum available 5kw power, so ~10%) and the prop is turning about 2k rpm (of a maximum peak 4650rpm so ~43%), the stall point is about 17kph on the flyer wing. Going directly upwind the output hovers around 1.3kw on level 4 with a similar average speed in both directions around 20-22kph

You can thumb through the different windows on the remote shows you things like remaining range etc.

Paularity,
Thx once again for the effort,appreciating the time your putting in

Like your instagram page great shots

I'm up the coast next weekend,so will report back on the trial run

tyx again

Folding props.
I checked with the sailing forum experts and consensus is less efficient under power than fixed blade props but benefit when sailing.
Makes sense but there are variables but overall less efficient.

Battery technology is exploding. The future for efoils is great as they get lighter.
There is a video out there of a guy riding an efoil while carrying a surfboard, then he catches a wave and leaves the efoil.

www.instagram.com/p/CLKYrWag8js/?igshid=l72jzt20hwza

Select to expand quote

Hdip said..
www.instagram.com/p/CLKYrWag8js/?igshid=l72jzt20hwza

That's a class act

Select to expand quote

emmafoils said..
Battery technology is exploding. The future for efoils is great as they get lighter.
There is a video out there of a guy riding an efoil while carrying a surfboard, then he catches a wave and leaves the efoil.

With the advent of high aspect foils and lighter batteries,smaller boards where will it end

Tesla are building and testing smaller and super light weight,for home storage.

look at the exponential rise in ebikes,their batteries are getting smaller and more powerful

Select to expand quote

paularity said..

Fitzsup said..

juandesooka said..
Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Juandesooka,

Jet skis ,wave runners,in my opinion are noisy,and in oz you need an observer to tow in.So pretty hard during a week day to find another 2 people who want to tow in foil.We have a lot of trouble with over inked idiots, who have no respect for other surfers and marine animals who ride skis.

there has been a huge change in technology eg foling prop,shorter boards, more efficient wings.

Can they surf them,definitely, as previously stated they are heavy,but newer technology eg lighter batteries will make them close to a manual powered foils.

I thought ebikes were a cop out,to easy to ride,no real benefit,but I now see people who wouldn't have thought about riding out enjoying life ,losing weight and getting fitter ,healthier.

I have seen a YouTube video where an efoil towed a sup foiler into a wave.

Its just a toy to maximize my time on the water,but I wanted to know peoples thoughts on if you would use them all the time.

thx for your reply

Plus jet skis also require registration, fuel, maintenance and a trailer which also limits where you can launch them in a metro area and I agree they are pretty obnoxious! They definitely have their place and uses, but not really something you can ride solo

I've towed guys on 5' ding boards in flat water easily enough and we just used a ratchet strap haha!

www.instagram.com/p/CJANgMuD6sn/

If you do go Flite, I would recommend the Pro 5' board, sport (smaller) battery and getting the prop guard removal sleeve for the fuse for the best performance. I use both of their wings depending on the conditions, but the flyer most often

I don't believe Lift has an option for smaller batteries, but I would be on the 4'4" board with the folding prop for sure if I had one and their wing choices are currently more modular too which is cool

Here's some technical info from the app after my session yesterday when I was down winding the swell again

I can pump around and connect the dots on the lowest level 1 (out of 20) which when I'm foiling on a wave the efficiency of the motor is about 0.5kw of power required to keep you flying (of a maximum available 5kw power, so ~10%) and the prop is turning about 2k rpm (of a maximum peak 4650rpm so ~43%), the stall point is about 17kph on the flyer wing. Going directly upwind the output hovers around 1.3kw on level 4 with a similar average speed in both directions around 20-22kph

You can thumb through the different windows on the remote shows you things like remaining range etc.

Have taken the prop guard off in the above?

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warwickl said..

paularity said..

Fitzsup said..

juandesooka said..
Personally, I would never spend that kinda $ on this toy ... a waverunner for tow-in's would be way ahead. BUT if I had access to one I'd session the hell out of it!

First few years, they looked kinda lame, flash-y zip-throughs of Miami harbour real estate...not my cup of tea. Wave attempts were pretty weak, unable to stay in the wave and surf it.

Lately we are seeing more videos that make it look more enticing, what's not to like about this?
www.instagram.com/p/CJzvvdmFe1z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am unsure if this is a change in the technology or they are finally getting them in the hands of people who can use them to their potential. I guess the 2nd part of that question, if it's the latter, can regular folk actually surf these things or is next level skilled (and I am not talking about standing there on an unbreaking wave....but getting some stylish turning and top to bottom riding)

Middle-aged Canadian test-pilot standing by for demo and sponsorship offers.

Juandesooka,

Jet skis ,wave runners,in my opinion are noisy,and in oz you need an observer to tow in.So pretty hard during a week day to find another 2 people who want to tow in foil.We have a lot of trouble with over inked idiots, who have no respect for other surfers and marine animals who ride skis.

there has been a huge change in technology eg foling prop,shorter boards, more efficient wings.

Can they surf them,definitely, as previously stated they are heavy,but newer technology eg lighter batteries will make them close to a manual powered foils.

I thought ebikes were a cop out,to easy to ride,no real benefit,but I now see people who wouldn't have thought about riding out enjoying life ,losing weight and getting fitter ,healthier.

I have seen a YouTube video where an efoil towed a sup foiler into a wave.

Its just a toy to maximize my time on the water,but I wanted to know peoples thoughts on if you would use them all the time.

thx for your reply

Plus jet skis also require registration, fuel, maintenance and a trailer which also limits where you can launch them in a metro area and I agree they are pretty obnoxious! They definitely have their place and uses, but not really something you can ride solo

I've towed guys on 5' ding boards in flat water easily enough and we just used a ratchet strap haha!

www.instagram.com/p/CJANgMuD6sn/

If you do go Flite, I would recommend the Pro 5' board, sport (smaller) battery and getting the prop guard removal sleeve for the fuse for the best performance. I use both of their wings depending on the conditions, but the flyer most often

I don't believe Lift has an option for smaller batteries, but I would be on the 4'4" board with the folding prop for sure if I had one and their wing choices are currently more modular too which is cool

Here's some technical info from the app after my session yesterday when I was down winding the swell again

I can pump around and connect the dots on the lowest level 1 (out of 20) which when I'm foiling on a wave the efficiency of the motor is about 0.5kw of power required to keep you flying (of a maximum available 5kw power, so ~10%) and the prop is turning about 2k rpm (of a maximum peak 4650rpm so ~43%), the stall point is about 17kph on the flyer wing. Going directly upwind the output hovers around 1.3kw on level 4 with a similar average speed in both directions around 20-22kph

You can thumb through the different windows on the remote shows you things like remaining range etc.

Have taken the prop guard off in the above?

Most definitely!

You would not be able to ride like that with the prop guard on.

I've ridden a Pro with the explore battery on the 65 mast and it was shocking how different it handled! Like turning a truck. Not a fan

Which from your post above I see you have had that revelation!

A few days ago I did my most epic downwinder attempt to date - 31.37km / 98 minutes with 11% remaining!

I was initially only going to do a run which is around 25km, but at just on 20km I still had 50% battery remaining so pushed on to my alternative exit point, where I had to do a big tack offshore to make it past a marina and the water is then more 'confused' so this started to chew my remaining power pretty rapidly

After tacking out 1km offshore at the start, the first 20km was all on level 1, finding the facets and pumping my way along the swell and you can see from the session link below that I'm hovering around .5kw efficiency a lot of the time, just bumping up to level 3 for a quick boost if I was losing my glide

Probably stopped about 10 times to clear ribbon weed / send a text message to my driver haha!

35km is definitely achievable!

www.facebook.com/100056623623214/videos/173515401212580

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Fitzsup said..

emmafoils said..
Battery technology is exploding. The future for efoils is great as they get lighter.
There is a video out there of a guy riding an efoil while carrying a surfboard, then he catches a wave and leaves the efoil.

With the advent of high aspect foils and lighter batteries,smaller boards where will it end

Tesla are building and testing smaller and super light weight,for home storage.

look at the exponential rise in ebikes,their batteries are getting smaller and more powerful

Definitely. The ultimate foil surfing machine is close. Power onto a wave, surf and repeat. The traditional surfers are going to be very unhappy.

Select to expand quote

emmafoils said..

Fitzsup said..

emmafoils said..
Battery technology is exploding. The future for efoils is great as they get lighter.
There is a video out there of a guy riding an efoil while carrying a surfboard, then he catches a wave and leaves the efoil.

With the advent of high aspect foils and lighter batteries,smaller boards where will it end

Tesla are building and testing smaller and super light weight,for home storage.

look at the exponential rise in ebikes,their batteries are getting smaller and more powerful

Definitely. The ultimate foil surfing machine is close. Power onto a wave, surf and repeat. The traditional surfers are going to be very unhappy.

This is a lot closer than what you think

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Fitzsup said..

warwickl said..
Further to above, I am now at session 8 on a Flightboard with prop guard removed for the last session.
I've had 2 sessions riding very small swells and one riding boat wake.
To over come drag I just run prop speed at swell speed to compensate for drag.
From my understanding folding props are not as efficient as normal props so a compromise.

With prop guard removed they are 10 times more fun ( well considerably more) and manouravable making carving on swell excellent.
Early days for me.
PS I kite and winging foil

Thx Warwicki,

I've read a number of your posts,yeah I know your a kiter and winger.

If you have time can you answer a few questions please.

Do you and will you use it if there is no wind???how much do you use it?

Are they something you'd get bored with???(mate paid $28k for a jet ski got bored with it sold it,couldn't find tow partners during the week,weekends got too busy)

What size board did you buy???

thx in advance

I bought the 5ft 8in ie larger with biggest battery and cruiser wing.
I have ridden both boards and wings with prop guard on and during my initial few sessions
Reasons, I am retired so not young and legs not as strong so bigger board is easier to stand up from kneeling, others may want to have a go etc
I efoil with 2 others in Lake Flat water and small ocean swells in an ocean entrance to a lake.
Since taking the prop guard off a new level of excitement.
Mostly ride in non windy conditions however have had 1 session in 10 to 15kn which was also fun.
I think my average usage will be once per week.
A friend who has the same set up as me just ordered the pro board but he is much younger.

Select to expand quote

warwickl said..

Fitzsup said..

warwickl said..
Further to above, I am now at session 8 on a Flightboard with prop guard removed for the last session.
I've had 2 sessions riding very small swells and one riding boat wake.
To over come drag I just run prop speed at swell speed to compensate for drag.
From my understanding folding props are not as efficient as normal props so a compromise.

With prop guard removed they are 10 times more fun ( well considerably more) and manouravable making carving on swell excellent.
Early days for me.
PS I kite and winging foil

Thx Warwicki,

I've read a number of your posts,yeah I know your a kiter and winger.

If you have time can you answer a few questions please.

Do you and will you use it if there is no wind???how much do you use it?

Are they something you'd get bored with???(mate paid $28k for a jet ski got bored with it sold it,couldn't find tow partners during the week,weekends got too busy)

What size board did you buy???

thx in advance

I bought the 5ft 8in ie larger with biggest battery and cruiser wing.
I have ridden both boards and wings with prop guard on and during my initial few sessions
Reasons, I am retired so not young and legs not as strong so bigger board is easier to stand up from kneeling, others may want to have a go etc
I efoil with 2 others in Lake Flat water and small ocean swells in an ocean entrance to a lake.
Since taking the prop guard off a new level of excitement.
Mostly ride in non windy conditions however have had 1 session in 10 to 15kn which was also fun.
I think my average usage will be once per week.
A friend who has the same set up as me just ordered the pro board but he is much younger.

Appreciate the reply ,thx

Yeah I'm retired and not much younger than you,just want to maximize my time on the water.

Im going to try both 5'8" and the pro ,leaning more to the pro

I have a similar set up ,river ,with swell coming thru the bar.

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murf said..

emmafoils said..

Fitzsup said..

emmafoils said..
Battery technology is exploding. The future for efoils is great as they get lighter.
There is a video out there of a guy riding an efoil while carrying a surfboard, then he catches a wave and leaves the efoil.

With the advent of high aspect foils and lighter batteries,smaller boards where will it end

Tesla are building and testing smaller and super light weight,for home storage.

look at the exponential rise in ebikes,their batteries are getting smaller and more powerful

Definitely. The ultimate foil surfing machine is close. Power onto a wave, surf and repeat. The traditional surfers are going to be very unhappy.

This is a lot closer than what you think

Hey Murf,
Interesting comment!!!

You seem to know something????

Care to elaborate on the comment.????please

I started wake foiling on a local lake last summer. 1 to 4 sessions per week yields decent results, so I expanded to take up wing foiling. While on vacation in Florida and impatiently waiting for wind I decided to do an efoil demo. They look lame in most videos but I found it to be quite fun. I found it very beneficial for working on my switch stance side and for getting used to higher speeds like winging. We were using the Lift 5'-6" boards, I believe.

That being said, I doubt I'll put one in my garage. I felt like it would be great for learning sharper carves and such but I would probably get bored with it. I already own a boat and having friends along for learning is really fun. That being said, it can be tough to find a driver and spotter on any given day so an efoil would be awesome for solo missions.

Select to expand quote

radair said..
I started wake foiling on a local lake last summer. 1 to 4 sessions per week yields decent results, so I expanded to take up wing foiling. While on vacation in Florida and impatiently waiting for wind I decided to do an efoil demo. They look lame in most videos but I found it to be quite fun. I found it very beneficial for working on my switch stance side and for getting used to higher speeds like winging. We were using the Lift 5'-6" boards, I believe.

That being said, I doubt I'll put one in my garage. I felt like it would be great for learning sharper carves and such but I would probably get bored with it. I already own a boat and having friends along for learning is really fun. That being said, it can be tough to find a driver and spotter on any given day so an efoil would be awesome for solo missions.

Thx for the reply,

A lot of people are finding the same,want to foil,but no observer or driver.

Our Maritime officials are getting nasty around here,busted the boys for no observer,doing tow in $500 fine.

Heard a rumor Tom Carroll,was caught by the same official,same offense,same fine.????

Thats why efoils interest me,I will not need to rely on anyone but me.