QUATRO CUBE 85L 2016 TEST REVIEW
QUATRO CUBE 85L 2016 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
The Cube has been completely overhauled for 2016, becoming shorter and wider with a fuller outline, particularly in the nose. It is as close to a stubby design as Quatro have come, with a length of just 220cm for this 85L version, yet the Cube retains a more conventional outline with a rounded nose shape and square tail. The stance has been moved further back on the board and compensated, say Quatro, by an increase in the board’s profile thickness. It comes supplied with quality MFC fittings, including refined straps, double density deckpads and some QS carbon-moulded fins.
BRAND CLAIM
“This short compact rocket of a quad was designed for speed and manoeuvrability. We have completely redesigned this board from its outline to its bottom contour to the entirety of its profile flow. A fuller outline through the nose compensates for its shorter length.”
PERFORMANCE
Despite being just 220cm in length, the Cube remains directional and carries weight well, making it feel conventional and easy underfoot at rest. One of the earliest to plane in the group, it takes little rider input to release and accelerates smoothly, feeling compact and alert. The Cube isn’t necessarily fast or gunny, but glides through lulls effortlessly and can be sailed with a passive style, standing over the board with a relaxed stance. It also cruises through transitions, maintaining its speed and forgiving any inaccuracies. But by us writing this, don’t get the impression that the Cube is dumbed down in any way – far from it. In actual fact, these qualities make it pure dynamite in cross to cross-on conditions! Capable of planing early and getting out of trouble on the inside, its wide nose gives it an innate ability to rise up over any white water, whilst the double concave in the hull irons out any impact as you travel over sharp chop. It is also very useful for jumps, boosting off ramps cleanly and feeling super compact in the air. On the wave face the Cube’s slower speed and ability to retain its pace comes into play. It can be carved freely off the back foot and is capable of a tight efficient arc, fitting its short length into the tightest of pockets. Best suited for making the most of less than ideal conditions, it has such a fun, playful nature and provides plenty of grip, that it is still more than capable as the waves clean up in cross shore locations. It is both a fantastic tutor for the novice rider and a wonder cross-on toy for the experienced, giving it masses of user appeal.
THE VERDICT
Combining plug and play ease with stunning control, the Cube is a compact feeling board that proved to be masses of fun in cross to cross-onshore conditions. A favourite amongst the team, it comes well recommended.
Other sails in this test: