TABOU THUNDER 120L LIMITED 2013 TEST REVIEW
TABOU THUNDER 120L LIMITED 2013 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
An all-new board for 2013, the wide-nosed Tabou Thunder is inspired by Ferrari speedboat hulls and designed to deliver early planing freeride performance and high speeds in lighter winds. Available in three sizes and two different constructions, LTD (tested here) or STD.
AT-A-GLANCE
Short and very compact with a wide round nose and wide boxy tail.
Deck concave around mast track with angled track.
Flat deck around footstraps with ramped pads.
Tabou footstraps positioned right on the rail with a very straight stance.
Deep double concaves in the hull, blending into vee in the tail.
Tail cutouts with a chunky, powerful tail shape.
Looks like a mini Formula board.
PERFORMANCE
The wide nose makes the Thunder very stable as it’s difficult to sink the short, wide nose while off the plane or through the tack. Although the tail is relatively thin (but still the widest on test) the 120 planes incredibly early in light wind conditions, allowing you into the straps early and to cruise through any lulls. The ride from the straps is comfortable but very outboard, with your back foot hooked right over the rail. The front strap is also positioned quite parallel along the rail for a straighter riding position, so beware it’s a little more technical to gybe and remove the front font. The Thunder is quick on all points of sail but most notably upwind, where it points super high and maintains speed well. It’s also very easy to handle when the wind picks up and the outboard riding position gives you plenty of control when fully powered-up. With the ‘Formula feel’ we even found ourselves wanting a third, middle strap for deeper reaches. Around the gybes it cuts a surprisingly smooth turn for such a wide board.
THE VERDICT
The Thunder is an impressive new board from Tabou. It’s fast, planes incredibly early and glides through lulls with ease. This 120 really impressed us in all conditions but it’s at the low end where it really stands out. Suitable for most levels of rider, if you want to go fast and have fun in light breeze this is a strong contender.
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