FEEDBACK: FRONT WING FLUID L-T

Thanks to Cédric for his detailed feedback of the Fluid L-T on our GONG Galaxy Facebook group, which he compares with his Curve L-T. A feedback that may guide some in their choice.

“Well, I tested the Fluid L-T today. The wind was in the 15/20 knots range with moments at rather 10/15 knots. I was on the HIPE 4’11 with the Neutra 5m for my 70 kg…

First session

Compared to the Curve L-T here is my feeling about this Fluid L-T after my first session. It requires more energy in the lightwind to take off, it’s obvious, but once it gets going it does not stop. If properly powered, taking off is not an issue. In the maneuvers you have to focus a little more to keep a certain speed otherwise it stalls more easily if you mess up. It’s also much more lively and less stable under the feet than the Curve. What surprised me on the first few meters was the board that came to life and became hypersensitive to the foot pressure. At first I did not understand everything!

I needed time to find my bearings

and 20 minutes later I was all set. The turns in the jibes and other curves went to another level, whether tight or wide .. It glides perfectly !!! I also noticed that I had a little less front foot than with the Curve, I had to move my mast a little forward in the box. As a result I had a more linear glide and a more manageable flight height. I was no longer lifted up when going very fast.

I think it will take me 2 or 3 more sessions to fully understand it. What is for sure is that this Fluid L-T is more technical than the Curve LT, it moves a lot more, it’s much more sensitive, it requires more speed to work correctly, but it’s much more manageable, it pushes less on the front leg and it really glides! For example when exiting a jibe you can take your time before sheeting in again, the glide is impressive … In short, in my opinion, you need some experience to appreciate this front wing, but once you master it, its potential is enormous !!!

The wing is really thin, light in handling (and in weight, 952 grams), fast, maneuverable .. on the other hand, those who are just learning to jibe or who are still a little on the defensive have more interest in staying on a Curve. It’s more docile and facilitating at low speed and tolerant for mistakes. This is only my humble opinion.”