FANATIC TRIWAVE TE 82L 2017 TEST REVIEW
FANATIC TRIWAVE TE 82L 2017 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
With the same four designs remaining current in the TriWave range (the 82 being the second smallest), the boards get a construction update for 2017 to match their graphics facelift. Biax Innegra carbon fibre cloth is used selectively at precise angles throughout the board in order to achieve the optimum strength, flex and efficiency ratios. Short and wide, the 82 retains a lot of width in its shoulders before tapering smoothly to a thin swallow tail. The deck shape of the TriWave is relatively flat, its profile visually thinner and nose lower than others in the group. It comes supplied with the sort of high quality fittings you’d expect from the Fanatic brand, with premium Velcro straps, high traction deckpads with integrated heel cushions, not to mention the MFC moulded fins. We had the pleasure of testing the TriWave 89 in last month’s 90L wave board test, so were eager to see if the smaller sibling continued in the same vein…
BRAND CLAIM
“The TriWave is not only a favourite across all levels and weight categories, but it has swept up World Cup wins and several top 10 results in the PWA World Tour. Its incredible planing abilities make the TriWave a first choice for those riders looking to have a fuss-free blast. Regardless of how high the jump or technical the move, the four sizes from 74 to 99 are complemented with an MFC Thruster set as the perfect match for an unbeatable package.”
PERFORMANCE
Despite possessing the lowest quoted volume here, the TriWave 82 had no issue in the same marginal conditions as any other board in the group. Yes, perhaps it submerged a little sooner, yet the volume is so evenly distributed in the TriWave that it sunk in such a balanced, predictable manner. And as soon as power is delivered it was certainly no slouch to get going, rising up and accelerating rapidly. It is an incredibly easy board to sail, with a distinctly ‘plug and play’ character that will charm the experienced and embolden the more novice pilot. The fittings are excellent, the fins providing good traction, whilst the straps and deckpads offer a secure and comfortable contact with the board. Even when the sea-state becomes troubled, the TriWave remains planted and easy underfoot, allowing the rider to adjust their stance as they wish without worrying the board will begin to buck. However, the TriWave’s real trump-card is the diversity of its appeal. It is an incredibly versatile board, suiting many riding styles, even without playing with its setup. For example, the fin boxes are super long in length, enabling a lot of fine-tuning … whilst even a small adjustment in the deck-plate position could alter the looseness of the board (moving it forward of centre seemed to reduce pressure on the fins and allow for a more skatey response in turns). Yet, leave the fins in their central positions and the board will respond smoothly and willingly, carving through the backfoot to be easily diverted back up the wave face. Used in cross-off to cross-on conditions, marginal to overpowered 4.2m weather, it responds in an assured familiar manner, encouraging the rider to simply put it where they want, confident that the board will do the rest.
THE VERDICT
The definitive plug and play wave board, the TriWave 82 is both extremely playful and steadfastly dependable, bestowing it with masses of appeal, from novice wave rider to pro.
Other sails in this test: