2009 isonic 101 - slower than 2007?

[Barker]

I find the 2009 101 iSonic more user friendly (footstrap position less extreme so easier to get into, more domed deck around the footpad area so more to wrap round and push against, more float and therefore more forgiving of mistakes round the gybes) than the 2007 model I had before but strangely, not as fast feeling. After about 6 sessions, using the same rig collection as on the 07, I'm sure the top speed of the 09 just isn't what the earlier one was. Can this be true? I can't imagine the top competitve riders would accept slower kit and I can't believe they're all racing around on 07 stuff. Anyone else find this? All views welcome

[BelSkorpio]

I have the 2009 IS101, but I cannot compare with the 2007, since I've never had or tried it.
To me it feels pretty fast.
I have my footstraps extreme backwards and my mastfoot a little further to the back c/w the recommended position.
I still consider this board as my best board I've ever had. It's a real chop killer.
The 2009 has 97L, while the 2007 had 96L of real volume.
I've compared once the IS101/2009 on the same day with the Falcon95/2009 and found not too much difference in top speed, BUT the Isonic was far superior in the chop, i.e. much more stable, which probably makes me faster with it.

[mark h]

Iv'e had the same feeling when I get a newer model. But I always sail with a GPS, this usually shows that Im going the same speeds or faster on the newer kit.

Some times when you have more control, you feel slower/easier/less physical, but the GPS shows Im usually going a bit quicker/or at least the same speeds.

On the basis that more control is fastest, SB have spent a lot of time making their boards with better/easier control compared to slalom from 10-years ago (even when c/w Sonic from 5 or 6-years ago).

Plus, don't forget that we all get a bit better each month or so. So your probably a better sailor from when you had your 07 iS101 so it all feels less fast and more easy

[Erik Loots]

Nice blog you have there Mark H!

[mark h]

Thanks Erik, its no were as good as your blog