FANATIC TRIWAVE TE 89L 2017 TEST REVIEW
FANATIC TRIWAVE TE 89L 2017 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
The TriWave series remains unchanged in design for 2017, yet has had a construction update to match its new paint job. The ‘Team Edition’ technology now incorporates a Biax Carbon / Innegra fibre finish, claimed to be exclusive to the brand. It uses a clever method of layering up the board’s fibres efficiently, for the ideal balance of flex and stiffness, without compromising strength. Using the brand’s ‘Flat Spot Concept’ the TriWave is designed to blend early planing ease with curved sections in its rockerline for tight cornering. Wide and low in the shoulders, the outline tapers smoothly to its swallow tail, the deck being flat in the mid-section to enhance rider stability off the plane. Having used the TriWave 89 last year and being impressed with its early planing and ease of use, it was good to see it back this year in the line-up, to see how the crop of 2017 compared.
BRAND CLAIM
“A waveboard that’s guaranteed to perform wherever you go, or whatever the waves look like. If it’s choppy, mushy and small, or you’re heading out for the day of the year, the TriWave feels right at home. A wave rocket with a light crisp feel, it’s quick to plane, predictable when jumping, and has tonnes of radness on the wave.”
PERFORMANCE
Feeling balanced and composed underfoot, the TriWave’s volume placement is just right, making it easy to get along with from the off. Despite its lower nose and wide shoulders, it pops up over any white water effortlessly and accelerates the instant any power is delivered. One of the earliest to release in the group, it has a super efficient nature, gliding through lulls as if impervious to them and pointing high upwind, the fins providing excellent traction. The fins aren’t the only fittings that we’re impressed with though – the brand’s Premium straps and heel-bumpered deckpads feel super comfortable, offering just the right amount of comfort and connection to the board. As the conditions turn on, the TriWave’s dependable character allows the rider to concentrate on their own performance rather than addressing any control issues. The board feels playful and smooth in its response, favouring a back-foot riding style, with the speed and controlled looseness to make the most of any wave, be it cross-on or cross-offshore. It bites beautifully in the turn, and holds its speed easily as you push harder to tighten the radius. In extreme conditions, the secure connection with the board through the pads and straps certainly play their part, the TriWave remaining well mannered and user-friendly whilst others around it are becoming a handful. Easy to trim efficiently and control, it makes a great tutor for those transitioning from bump and jump to full wave, and leaves you safe in the knowledge you won’t out grow its abilities, possessing bags of potential.
THE VERDICT
Plug and play ease matched with the ability to flatter most riding styles, the TriWave remains an incredibly versatile all-round contender, appealing to the first time wave sailor as much as the experienced wave-head.
Other sails in this test: