NAISH BULLET 7.0M 2013 TEST REVIEW
NAISH BULLET 7.0M 2013 TEST REVIEW
The low-down
Naish describe the Bullet as their ‘state-of-the-art race sail’ yet it’s worth pointing out that it’s not registered or raced on the PWA [production gear] Slalom World Tour, but is designed with giving performance to riders with a lighter than the typical tour racer build. Replacing the 2012 GrandPrix it’s a compact ‘low swing weight’ foil intended to be easy to use in all conditions and made from some impressive looking ultra-light scrim materials that are structurally supported by ‘airframe’ carbon tape in the foot and clew. The entire line can fit on just two mast lengths. (430 and 460.)
At-a-glance
Seven battens with four mini battens
Three cambers
Top quality lightweight & hi-tech construction
X-166 Ultra-light scrim construction
Easy-access padded tack fairing
Medium width luff tube
Fixed clew ring
X-ply reinforcement
‘Airframe’ Carbon taping
Rigging
Using a 460 Naish 100% carbon mast we found a zero setting and just the minimum amount of downhaul was necessary. The Bullet is an easy sail to rig and tune – with easy access to the downhaul thanks to the handy side-access padded tack fairing and large sleeve cut-out.
Performance
It’s instantly noticeable how the power feeds in very smoothly with an extremely light-in-the-hands feel. The draft comes from slightly higher up with a forward pull so the bottom end is strong and aids quick acceleration. The Bullet is well balanced and the power can be easily controlled from the back hand, especially at the exciting top-end. We found it to have an impressive wind range and particularly efficient in lighter airs. Around the corners, its lightweight construction and balanced handling really pay off, with a smooth rotation and instant power out of gybes.
The Verdict
The New Naish Bullet is refined-feeling sail, with a high quality lightweight construction that delivers well in a wide range of conditions, delivering easily accessible high performance for any level of rider wanting to really explore the upper limits. Being a triple cam race sail it’s easy and very hassle-free to use, but most importantly, great fun!
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