STARBOARD FOILS SUPERFLYER 2022 TEST REVIEW
THEY SAY
The SuperFlyer is the next level up from the SuperCruiser. It offers similar riding characteristics with a bit more glide and speed.
WE SAY
The SuperFlyer is new to the Starboard lineup for 2022, sitting neatly between the SuperCruiser and the Freeride (tested last season). Adopting many of the same constituent parts as the SuperCruiser, and available with either a carbon C300 or aluminium mast (as tested here). Its sole difference is found with the front wing, which is a 1300 Evolution C300. And in that name are a few pointers as to the changes Starboard have introduced to their foil range for the new season. The first big change is the ‘Evolution’ concept – a refined fuselage design with a new front wing fixture, said to enhance water flow and maximise front wing efficiency, whilst increasing stiffness and control with an inbuilt mini-bridge. This means that the new Evolution fuse is not compatible with existing front wings, albeit the news is better for tail wings, as their joining ‘saddle’ hasn’t been altered. The coding ‘C300’ refers to the carbon and technology used within a components’ layup and is ascribed throughout the Starboard range, in reference to both masts and wings. C300 is the most commonly seen – a standard high modulus pre-impregnated carbon construction, used extensively in the brand’s carbon wings and masts. C400 is a new ultra-high modulus carbon construction first used on the iQFOiL mast, whilst the C600 is the ultimate carbon spec, described as: “exotic, exclusive and expensive!” The final development is seen in the brand’s masts, more precisely their leading edge. Whereas most existing masts have an 87 degree leading edge angle, there are new 90 degree masts (exclusively produced in C400 and C600 carbon), which provide more power by shifting the fuselage and wings 5 cm further forward. Suffice to say the SuperFlyer Carbon option comes with a more affordable and congenial C300 87 degree 85 cm mast.
Using the SuperFlyer in a variety of boards, it very easy to get on with. Lift comes in early and requires very little input from the rider, the ride feeling safe, stable and predictable. It’s certainly faster than we recall of the SuperCruiser, yet still feels playful and well mannered – you can just hop on and foil. Of all the foils in the test, the best way to describe the SuperFlyer is that it feels the most like ‘fin’ windsurfing! The stance it commands is very balanced and comfortable on both feet; and the range of the SuperFlyer is such that you can even transfer over the rig type and size that you’re used to using. Comfortable for use over long distances and on all points of sail, it won’t necessarily win any races, but has enough performance to keep most recreational foilers entertained and captivated. With the 85 cm mast, ride height is easy to manage if not pushing too hard and trying to force the issue, the 102 cm fuselage length combined with the 330 cm tail wing offering ample stability and glide through the gybe. With speed at entry and its dependable nature allowing the rider to push confidently though the arc of the turn, the SuperFlyer straightens its path predictably upon exit and provides the time and security to get the foot change dialled. It’s a great tutor for the progressing foiler and the range is there to keep things controlled should the wind strength increase, or there is ambitions to venture into confused coastal seas. Built upon the same modular system as all the new Evolution series, the SuperFlyer offers a natural pathway into the world of windsurf-foiling, with plenty of avenues then available for further exploration, by adding another wing, mast or fuselage.
WEBSITE www.starboardfoils.com
STARBOARD FOILS SUPERFLYER 2022 TEST REVIEW
VITAL STATS
PRICE: £999.00
FOIL
Head: Deep Tuttle
Mast Length: 85.0 cm
Mast Material: Aluminium
Fuselage Length: 102.0 cm
Fuselage Material: Aluminium
Front Wing Span: 82.0 cm
Front Wing Chord: 17.0 cm
Front Wing Area (Quoted): 1300 cm²
Tail Wing Span: 59.0 cm
Tail Wing Area (Quoted): 330 cm²
Wing Material: Carbon
Weight: 5.36 kg
OTHER FOILS IN THIS TEST
GA SAILS WINDSURF HYBRID ALU FOIL SET 90 + HP1150