Boards Tests//
// Raptor Pro 132 x 41 [TEST], Access kiteboard mag #3
The Raptor replaces the Proline that Crazy Fly brought out in 2007. An improved scoop - rockerline should give the board more speed and better upwind capabilities. The Raptor is presented as an allround board, which performs best in windy conditions and in choppy water, but also with less wind the board feels at home.
The board is full carbon. The finish is perfect. The graphics gives the board a 'young agressive' look. Special is the colour that 'fades' if you turn the board. The woodcore gives the board enough stiffness between the pads to get a good response. The flex in the tips is a little bit softer, this causes the board to feel a little bit bigger when the wind picks up. This means that you have to make a right choice for the right size for youself. But with 8 different sizes there will always be a right size. The promise of a good allround board comes true on the water. Although it's not a board that quickly accelerates to a high speed. Also the upwind capabilities are a little bit disapointing. When there is enough wind there is not problem with the upwind capabilities and acceleration, but when the wind is low or up and down you won't be the last on the water. With jumping the board seems to stick a little bit on the water when you pop the board. Because these reasons the board was laying on the beach during some of the testdays. Every tester is convinced about the capabilities of the Raptor with enough wind, but with some less power in the kite you quickly have to walk back on the beach to get upwind. For Dutch conditions the board is perfectly usable because it doesn't 'bite' in the chop, but keeps relaxed to sail. Besides this you have enough response to land newschool tricks.
Plug it before the play
The assembling of the board is really easy. All the screws are the the same size crosshead so you only need one probeller turner. Within no time you are on the water and ready for action! It's also easy to chance your stance once a while because of the easy screwing.
