Hello, I've been windsurfing a couple of years now on and off (currentlyin London but not for long back to Perth soon
). Currently I have a bic ~120l free ride board that I learn't on with a 5.5 / 6.2.
Also have an ancient wave board of some description I picked up for free thats great for higher wind control (only flat water so far)... but feels so sluggish in comparison.
In higher winds/chop the 120l starts to go all over the place...so looking for a smaller 1 board does it all option to add to the collection. Would like to start getting out on the ocean (river sailing thus far), bump and jump and some small waves.
So my question is how much speed will I sacrifice going for a Kode 94 vs a F101 in flattish water?
And could I do the above with a futura or is the Kode a no brainer for me?
Thoughts appreciated...
The first detail required is how heavy are you? That determines the size to go for.
Size aside, the Kode would be a better option for the B&J and small waves whilst still being good on flat water.
I have a Kode94 and have sailed Futura's (93,101 & 111). Personally I believe the Kode is still a very fast board, not only in flat water but also in rougher conditions. I've done a little over 33 knots on mine with a wave sail & fin and three strap configuration in flat water. For me the small amount of speed you loose going with the Kode over the Futura is worthwhile as you will gain a lot more enjoyment when sailing in bump and jump conditions. Great all round board.
And yes, I'm sure most all brands have a similar board just as good in their lineup.
I'm at a similar level to you, confident w'starter and only gybe when the gods are on my side....bit heavier though at 94kg.
I dropped from a Bic 112L to a 94L Kode last summer and at first though i'd made a mistake, getting out of the bay and into the wind was a tough sail but once I got it on the plane life became pure bliss.
the board handles surf and bump&jump beautifully, feels like you have shock-absorbers in your ankles. I usually sail it with a 5.5 or 6.5m sail. I have taken it out with 7.5m but had to sail very upright to avoid cavitation with the stock fin.
as far as speed goes, I have to concentrate pretty hard to keep up with dad on his 114L Kode in lighter conditions but has soon as we get into the chop he has to back off to keep his board on the water....that's when the 94L comes into it's own
96/103 Starboard Kode.......96/102 RRD Freestyle wave.......Can't go wrong.
Best thing for you to do is to come in grab a demo when you arrive back to Perth & see which size suits your needs.
It's probably best to not to use your old boards as reference for the sizing.
Jez
