My opinion :
Just got a 11'6 Oxbow over a week ago and am loving it. I have been Supping for over a year and a half and have had 3 boards (11'6 Naish, 10'10 Walden, 10 McTavish) and still own the McTavish. I am 110kg on a good day and of average ability. I usually am on my mals when not supping, so I come to supping with a surfing background. I bought the Oxbow mainly to have for the micro days and flat water paddling with my daughter. I find it surfs really good for a big board (heaps of rocker) as long as you surf it like a mal over the tail and lots of foot movement. It is great for improving footwork. It is a very stable board and easy to catch waves.
Now the bad points: Because of its size and weight it is hard initially to get paddle momentum compared to my Mctavish, but once you are going look out!
It is hard to turn to catch a wave unless you can kick turn, but it does kick turn easily to compensate and it is a good way to learn the art of the kick turn.
Now with the red bottom, beware of leaving it in the sun to long, it gets hot very quick!!
I am going to put in a gortex valve though asap hopefully this will help a little.

Overall though I love it for what it is 'A Cruiser'

nice review of the Oxbow cruiser, Steve. Good to hear all is well, how is your mate going?

Hey Lou,
My mate is loving it as well and he is learning fast on the flats. Thanks again for your great service.