This is the production prototype that will be tested over the next two or three months. Twelve have been built.
Specifications:
Length- 183cm
Core- Edge grain poplar
Binding plates- composite
Base- sintered Iso-Sport
Fiber - proprietary Carbon/Glass/Kevlar
Edge(s) - continuous both inner and outer
We've done some skiing on this since the first one was built earlier this year of a slightly different design. The first concerns were the loads that are centralized right at the crotch where the two "skis" meet. Surprisingly, all structural tests have been successful and we finally had to use a fork lift to do a destruct test!
Handling characteristics are obviously very different to both two skis and the traditional monoski that we are all familiar with. It is very sensitive to binding placement in different snow conditions which we will hopefully sort out when we get some better snow conditions and a variety of skiers on it.
On these ones, we used an off the shelf Snowshark Mako graphics, which will be replaced in the new year. I would expect that we will do additional flex pattern changes and test them along side of these first twelve.
My opinion?? Edge control is very good but it takes a little getting used to the four edges at the tail transitioning into two at the front which is more noticeable at lower speed. De-tuning edges has helped a lot. Our first concerns were that it stays together and to date that has not been a problem thanks to selective placing of shaped fibers. Overall, I think that it has promise, but, the proof will be in testing and trials by numerous skiers and constructive criticism and input. If it works, great, if it doesn't, it will be a great conversation piece!
Plans
are to have some in both Lake Tahoe and Colorado in the next few weeks. I'm
looking forward to having some fun with this!!!