The RS:X is a true cross over board in that it makes the best compromise between traditional raceboard sailing in sub-planing
conditions, and exciting "Formula" racing in planing conditions starting from 8-10 knots.

Design Objective:

To develop a board that offers exciting Formula Windsurfing planing performance, while still performing well in non-planing, light-wind conditions.
Board must have a huge wind range, from 3 to 30 knots. It should be suitable for all potential conditions of Olympic and Qualifying regattas:low wind finishes, entry into narrow harbour ports, races in disturbed water/air conditions.
Board should start to plane as early as possible.

How was it done? Design & Shaping Features:

I) Sub-Planing Conditions, Dagger-board Down (up to 8-10 knots)

 
   
In comparison to a Formula Windsurfing board, the RS:X is both narrower and longer

Narrow outline allows the board to be easily set on the rail for good up-wind performance.
Longer water line with more parallel rails helps directional stability and is more efficient through the water.
Single concave bottom shaping in the nose further emphasises the bite of the rail for tracking upwind.
   
"Convex Tail" shaping improves control while on the rail and tracking upwind. Off the rail, the rounded tail (on the water line) allows for a smoother water flow.
 
 
   
II) Planing Conditions, Dagger-board Up (8-10 knots & above)
 
 
Traditional "Formula" shaping of the nose of the board promotes greater lift for earlier planing. Helps the board to sit slightly higher on the water and as the water flows directly underneath the nose, the board is pushed onto the plane.
Convex shaping of the tail of the board.

a) Reduces the wetted area further aiding early planing.

b) Places the footstraps more towards the outer edge of the board providing greater drive off the fin, especially important for planing performance and driving upwind.
   
"Flat panel to V" shaping in the tail section of the bottom of the board further promotes lift in planing conditions. "V" shaping helps the board to sit on the water in strong wind / rough water conditions.
 
Adjustable mast track for optimal trim in all conditions.


I) Sub-Planing Conditions, Dagger-board down (up to 8-10 knots)
In light-wind sailing the RS:X board behaves in a similar fashion to a traditional race board. However, due to the shorter length in comparison to a traditional raceboard, the ease of manoeuvrability in tacking and gybing is significantly improved.
Startline tactics: many
Olympic racers often sail the board backwards in order to keep a good position on the start line. The rounded tail on the back of the board, in addition to improving the flow of water, makes it easier to sail the board backwards!
   
Upwind: In a little breeze with the dagger-board down, the rider can pump the board onto the rail for good tracking upwind. On the rail, the "Convex Tail" allows the board to be rolled with the gusts and swells. Side footstraps help to give the rider more stability and control.
 
Downwind: With the daggerboard up for going downwind, the board provides good stability for pumping (if necessary).
II) Planing Conditions, Dagger-board up (8-10 knots & above)
•    In planing conditions, the board behaves largely like a Formula Windsurfing board, thus giving much faster performance and a more exciting ride.
•   In downwind conditions with the adjustable mast track set to the back, the board sails both with good speed and a very steep angle.    
 


Carbon Sandwich construction for the best lightweight to performance ratio. Carbon sandwich on the deck provides a stiffer / faster feel.

Length Max.Width Weight Volume Centreboard Fins Fin Attachmet
286 cm
93 cm 15.5 kg 220 litres carbon-sandwich 60 / 66 cm Deep Tuttle


Copyright © 2005 Neil Pryde Ltd. All rights reserved.