JP AUSTRALIA MAGIC RIDE 104L PRO 2015 TEST REVIEW
JP AUSTRALIA MAGIC RIDE 104L PRO 2015 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
The Magic Ride range remains unchanged for 2015, save for the addition of the 111. On test here is the 104 in the top construction available for this size (the 118 and 132 can be bought in the brand’s Gold technology for an eye watering £2149.00).
BRAND CLAIM
“Thrilling and exciting extra wide, short and thin freeride boards. They feature unbelievable early planing with the easiest gybing possible. The main difference to boards from our competition is, that they really give you an electrifying feel which you normally only get from much smaller boards. Their early planing and top speed are also unmatched in their class.”
PERFORMANCE
The Magic Ride 104 has a flat deck, thinly spread volume and moderately low-rockered nose, making it a very stable board at rest, with good rig carrying capacity. Easily capable of being partnered with the 7.0m JP suggests, we think it could take a 7.5m quite easily in the right hands. As power is delivered, the 104 responds instantly, releasing from the water eagerly and accelerating well. It is certainly one of the earlier planing boards in the group and doesn’t require a great deal of rider input to do so; even passive riding styles will appreciate the JP’s ability to release and get going. Once there the 104 provides an engaging, somewhat loud clattery ride, which in marginal or comfortable wind strengths can be a real advantage, keeping the most demanding rider captivated. The shoulders of the board sit high, out of any trouble, whilst the area under the front straps (which sees the pronounced vee with double concave earlier in the board reduced to a flat section) seems to impact with the water as it skims over the surface, offering a reason for the Magic Ride’s lively nature in moderate conditions. As the wind increases and the sea state becomes more severe, it does mean the 104 is best partnered with an efficient powerful sail and forceful riding style to pin it down and keep it under control. If you dominate it, the 104 can be pushed to an impressive top end, the 36cm fin imparting excellent traction, giving you the confidence to load it. In transition the Magic Ride is very capable, turning in smoothly and biting well on its thin rails. It has an ease and versatility to its gybing ability, feeling safe and stable throughout for the nervous pilot, or able to be driven hard by the more experienced, the fin once again playing its part and providing unwavering grip. It doesn’t have the effortless glide of some through the turn and will falter under bad technique, although its stability and early planing mean you will soon be back up to speed on the new tack.
THE VERDICT
The Magic Ride offers super early planing and an engaging lively ride that will serve to inspire, making average conditions a lot more fun. Needs a strong hand to get the most from in severe conditions.
Other sails in this test: