After several sessions with the Fluid L-H, there’s no turning back to another foil for Gabriel.
“Here is my feedback on the new Fluid L-H that I used with the Fluid H 45 and 42 Stabs. I find that it is much more balanced with the 42. The whole set-up is much more balanced. I used this combo on 7 sessions over the last month.
Yes, it is different, almost disconcerting at first. After the 1st session with a wind that was too weak, I almost gave up. Yes, it is something else. You have to adapt your pumping technique but after 2/3 sessions, I think I have the same low range as with the Fluid L-T, you just have to add 2 more pumping strokes. After 3-4 sessions, we can’t go back, especially for the 2 big strengths: glide and jumps.
Here are the positive points:
Speed: I don’t have a GPS watch but it’s definitely going fast. It’s still easy to control. Speed does not come with instability. It is healthy and sweet.
Glide: big gain in glide, we discover a new style of glide. You get used to it very quickly. The easiest way to realize the difference is to take back your old Fluid T and you have the impression that it pushes a lot of water…
Surfing: we glide much longer. I sometimes manage to take the wave in front or the one behind without having to take my wing back in my hand. And it’s not that bad.
Jump: with the gain in speed and glide, it’s even easier to jump. We feel that it gives more lift. It is clear that we are going higher in the jumps. The difference is very clear.
Yes, it is a little more sensitive. We have to get our bearings but it comes quickly. For an intermediate rider, I think you have to first change the stab for the H then later the Front Wing H.
And the negatives:
Take off: In the end not too hard with a decent wind.
Surfing: yes, we lose a bit with this large wingspan. We lose a little fluidity in the curves vs the Fluid-T (but what a gain in glide).
Test condition: Gear: Lethal 4’10 & Lemon 4’6, 85 carbon mast, Neutra V2 4m & 5m / Size: 68kg, intermediate level / wind 16/26 knots.”
