EXOCET 2009 : WINDSURFING BOARDS

	Post number : #1
	Topic :	Cross 117 vs Starboard Aero 117
	Date :	3/25/2005 7:58:38 AM Author : Rooster
		Hi crew, Just wondering if anyone had any info on a comparison between these two. I currently have an Exocet OW 105 and 95 and are looking at going a touch bigger. Much appreciated




	Post number : #2
	Date :	3/26/2005 2:11:28 AM Author : Tonka
		I sailed the cross117 for the first time today. I was first on a Evo 92 with a 5.3 rigged up when the wind backed off. Instead of rerigging to a bigger sail, i took out the 117 with the 5.3. What a GREAT board that is. It is like an Evo on steroids only faster. I had no problem with it being SO floaty. That board rips. Sorry, I haven't ridden the Aero. i really think nobody has yet.




	Post number : #3
	Date :	3/27/2005 4:06:43 AM Author : WARDOG
		Hi Rooster, I will be the first in North America to ride the Aero 117/127... That won't happen until May... http://surfingsports.com/starboard_aero.asp We've been sailing the Cross 117 for the last several months and all I got to say is Starboard has their work cut out for them...the Cross 117 is a home run! Team Exocet nailed it with this board...matter of fact...it's been sold out for weeks here in North America...we have sailors on back order for the next container... It's more than a "touch" bigger... I think it's the perfect step up in size from an EVO 92 or Owave 95/105... Here's a comparison shot of the Cross 117 vs. Owave 105: http://surfingsports.com/images/cross117_owave105.jpg Here's a comparison shot of the Cross 117 vs. Owave 105 vs. Uwave 88: http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_03.jpg Top 3 vs. EVO 92: http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_04.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_05.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_wave.jpg Here's a 250lb. sailor holding down a 6.8m2 Aerotech Phantom... http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_gbeach_phantom68_cross117.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_deck.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_bottom.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_bottom2.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_nose.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_nose2.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_nose3.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/exocet_cross117_volume.jpg Compared to Starboard S-Type 115 and Carve 121: http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_freeride.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_freeride_boards1.jpg The Cross 117 is fast to plane...comfortable to ride over-powered...footsteerable...jumpable...loose on a wave...even busted a tail slide going down the line on a cutback...with my wave oriented Freeweed fin... http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_freeride_boards1.jpg The Cross 117 comes with the select 36cm Supercross fin: http://surfingsports.com/images/freeride_fins_compare.jpg You can compare freeride fins to my 10" (25cm) Freeweed" http://surfingsports.com/images/atx_freeweed_drake_compare.jpg WARDOG http://surfingsports.com 888.805.9978 (remove XXX in addie to reply)




	Post number : #4
	Date :	3/28/2005 7:33:32 AM Author :
		Great pics WARDOG!!!!! In your opinion would it be worth changing my 105 for the 117 and keeping my OW 95. Eithor that or I just get one anyway!! I come in at 107kgs. At the moment no supply in Australia.




	Post number : #5
	Date :	3/28/2005 4:53:47 PM Author : WARDOG
		Hi Rooster, I like to try and ride lots of boards...giving the new KP Pro Model Acid 94 a go...along with all of the others...;-) http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_wave.jpg I work with other sailors at your weight...they are on the EVO 92 or OW 95, then jump up to the Cross 117...the OW 105 has some overlap...but, it does ride smaller than the Cross 117 and bigger than the OW 95... If you need to free up money, then the OW 105 goes to a new home...otherwise, keep her...if you lay off of the beer, then you could sell the OW 95 and pick up the UWave 88...;-) Then, you'd have the perfect wave quiver for a big guy... Here's a comparison shot of the Cross 117 vs. Owave 105 vs. Uwave 88: http://surfingsports.com/images/quiver_03.jpg WARDOG http://surfingsports.com 888.805.9978 (remove XXX in addie to reply)




	Post number : #6
	Date :	4/5/2005 6:04:48 AM Author : Rooster
		Hey Wardog. Wish I could lay off the beer, but at nearly six foot eight I am one lean heavyweight. Its not like some big lumpy guys, Im all skin and prick, but still weigh in at 107! Glad to hear your response on the Cross. Sounds the way to go. My biggest problem is getting one. None in Australia!!!!!!! Not happy. Whats going on????




	Post number : #7
	Date :	4/5/2005 11:17:43 AM Author : Des
		2nd that, what's going on with stock for Oz.Ihad one on order but delivey dates kept moving out so now I'm riding aTabou.




	Post number : #8
	Date :	4/5/2005 12:47:13 PM Author : John I
		Go over to the Aerotechsails.com forum and bug Robert Goyen as well. He may know a dealer or two that's hoarding the Crosses down under. I won't give mine up. @ 92 kgs, I really enjoy the 117 as well as a light wind wave alt. One of my sailing buds got one about 3 weeks ago here in FL and has only used it in a lake so far. He likes it even for that. Sent a 60 kg girl out on mine for a demo, she liked it... No wonder they are hard to find. Everyone who gets on one likes it for any number of reasons.




	Post number : #9
	Date :	4/8/2005 2:07:49 AM Author : Tonka
		I just sailed the cross 117 today again. The wind was gusty with lots of holes, but i was able to be the only guy sailing down the line at a local right point break in head high waves that nobody hardly ever sails. It felt like I was cheating because it was SO easy.




	Post number : #10
	Date :	4/9/2005 2:11:15 AM Author : rooster
		Great to hear Tonka. What fin are you guys using for wave sailing with it. It comes with a big bugger eh? My OW 105 has a 25cm wave fin that works pretty good, but the Cross uses powerbox. Not that, that is a problem. Its easier to find wave fins for them than tuttle box! Just interested to know what you weigh too Tonka, and how the cross handles compared to the Evo




	Post number : #11
	Date :	4/9/2005 5:53:53 AM Author : Tonka
		Mr. Rooster, I have a 9 inch Jason Prior wave fin from Rainbow Fins that works real good on that board. I seem to have no problem staying upwind. The spot that I sail is a surfspot that gets light fluky side-offf winds this time of year. I weigh 200 lbs. or so depending on what was for lunch. I never sail on anything bigger than a 5.8. To me the Cross feels a little crisper and easier to plane than the Evo. Don't get me wrong, i love the Evo and i sail it in all kind of conditions, from choppy side-on slop to mast high down the line point waves. The 117 liters are your friend with board. It has never felt like it was too big, altough i haven't sailed any waves over head high on it. So far having the Cross 117 has opened up a lot of spots for me that in the past I've had to use a big 139 liter freeride board for. Now I can smack the lip as easy as i can with my Evo, but then i have the big platform to putt back to the waves on. I thought I had it dailed with just driving around with one board (Evo 92) last season, but now I think I wouldn't go anywhere without the new secret weapon(Cross117).




	Post number : #12
	Date :	4/11/2005 2:57:58 AM Author : Rooster
		Cheers Tonka. Now I really want one!!!!!!!




	Post number : #13
	Date :	4/12/2005 3:48:28 PM Author : MoBay
		Just got myself a Wardog set up (Cross 117 w/ Aerotech Phantom 6.8). Was out in super light conditions and shoulder-high occasional sets. All I can say is this is a killer light wind combo! Had a blast punching through the waves with what little power I had in the sail. Even got a couple of fun rides coming in. I didn�t try the stock fin as that I had a Wardog super wave fin. The board was super loose. In fact, it�s hard to believe that this is a 117 liter board! Congrats Exocet! This is a perfect East Coast (USA) ocean board. PS I�m 72 kgs and sail in small waves/ b&J off Long Island (windsurfing Mecca!!)




	Post number : #14
	Date :	4/12/2005 10:38:26 PM Author : John A
		Really? I'm starting to wonder if I should get cross 117. You guys made it sound more like a wave board? Is it really loose? Can you jump off the lips? How's jumping? Can you do a bottom turn and then smack the lips? I'm going to try this board. I'm a big guy at 205 lbs. It's hard to believe this can be done at 117 liter (or is it really 117 liter volume?). Glad to hear you guys are stoked about it.




	Post number : #15
	Date :	4/13/2005 3:56:33 PM Author : MoBay
		Can't comment on jumping (yet) but it's was plenty loose for onshore wave-riding (with a 6.8!!). Look, it's not like riding an Evo 70 with a 4.0 but it blows away any freeride thing I've been on. Frankly it's the biggest board I have ever owned (and sail). I'm trying to convince my buddies to get one. We suffer from wind snobism and tend to sit on the beach in 10- 15 knot days and wait for enough power to get our smaller stuff going. I got tired of watching all the kiters out on their 16 m windbags having all the fun in marginal ocean conditions. By the way, I have a kite too but frankly prefer to windsurf. Wardog will chime in for sure on the wave jumping and riding capabilities. Remember, at 244 length, this is shorter than my old school 8�2 Bill Foote wave board!




	Post number : #16
	Date :	4/14/2005 10:59:07 AM Author : John I
		I've had some exhilerating days with the Cross series. Light wind with a 6.4 and 7.0 AirX from Aerotech makes for easy access through the break. Been out in mast to logo high perfect sideoff to small onshore slop. These boards rock in lighter wind ocean days. I weigh 91kgs/198 lbs. I have used big freeride or freestyle boards for 10-15 mph surf days for years. This Cross 117 has the best features for those days. And, it does well when I'm too lazy to pump past a strong rip in bigger onshore waves. I can skip a 100 ltr board quite often and go to a OW85.




	Post number : #17
	Date :	4/14/2005 11:25:33 AM Author : Patrice
		The Cross 117 concept came after I sailed with Steve in is home spot, 10 to 15 knots side/onshore with a lot of current, I was sailing that day with 6.2 and OW 105, it was ok but this combo was not giving me enough power to do some real action, I realize then that you need something with a lot more volume and here came the Cross 117, John I was also pushing me in that way to make a very fast of the plane board but still able to do some wave riding. Thanks to both of them !!! Patrice




	Post number : #18
	Date :	4/14/2005 4:13:57 PM Author : Tonka
		Thank you Patrice from everybody close to 200 lbs (or more) and sailing in the waves.




	Post number : #19
	Date :	4/19/2005 1:42:41 AM Author : Rooster
		You guys have convinced me. Put my order in today. Can't wait for delivery to Aus.




	Post number : #20
	Date :	4/27/2005 12:03:30 AM Author : Cori
		I am very interested by all your posts. I am looking for 115/120 Liter board. In my country, all is JP and no Exocet yet. This is why I was thinking of a JP Xcite 120, but after all what I red, why couldn�t I be the first Exocet owner? Have any one an opinion or been able to compare these two boards and what was the feeling? Wardog, do you have any suggestion to help me make the right choice? I weight 73Kg, my smaller board is a JP Freestyle wave 84L which I use from 4 up to 5.9 and I am looking for a board to use bigger sails like 7, 7.8 or even if possible (but not a must) up to 8.5. What biggest sail can reasonably hold the cross 117 with which size and kind of fin? Your helps will be highly appreciated, thank you




	Post number : #21
	Date :	4/27/2005 1:04:16 AM Author : IJ
		I have used the cross with as big as an 8.5 Kpro and a 44 cm race fin. Sail was at the top end of the range but worked ok, the 44 fin was no problem. The 117 will be great with a 7 or 7.8 with fins from 34-40 depending on waves or flat water Not sailed the JP 120, but you would not be disappointed with the 117 if you like freestyle wave boards




	Post number : #22
	Date :	4/27/2005 10:30:25 AM Author : Bzh
		I got my 117 yesterday and made the first test in 18/20 knts with choppy water/ small waves conditions (sail: 6.5 NP expression): what a great board! Anybody tried the board with a big wave fin? I've got a select X1 26.5cm (that I used on my "old" Compact move 100)... I can buy a new "adaptator" to fit it to the powerbox. But may be it's to small for the Cross? Thanks for your comments.




	Post number : #23
	Date :	4/27/2005 11:05:27 AM Author : rooster
		BZH, I ordered my Cross117 last week and on the same day bought the same fin you are talking about. Im interested to see if it goes ok. Cant see a problem with it. The supplied fin wont really suit some of the shallow reef locations that I sail in that suck dry! Also noted the other day that the construction differs slightly to the OW range. The OW's are a bombproof makeup even at 107kgs, are the cross boards still as strong?




	Post number : #24
	Date :	4/27/2005 11:21:54 AM Author : Bzh
		Rooster, I've got also a OW2 105 myself, so I took the 117 more for flat water/lightwind conditions or "bump and jump" with a 6.5. The stock fin looks great for that. I've tried the 105 with my 6.5 in the waves many times but don't really liked the combo: usually I prefer to go with a 5.8 (a NP Search, so it's a powerfull sail). So I think I'll use the 117 in the surf only a few days in a year: when it's really light (less than 10 knts) and side/offshore with some small waves (shoulder high max)... perfect "down the line" conditions with a floatty board and a big sail (6.5 or even 7.2). For those days I'll need a wave fin... I'm sure Patrice will have some feedback on the 26.5 X1. Cheers




	Post number : #25
	Date :	4/27/2005 3:32:57 PM Author : Tonka
		I have been sailing the Cross 117 with a 9 inch (23cm?) wave fin and it works just fine getting back upwind in onshore waves with a slight current. It really makes the board a little easier to go rail to rail.




	Post number : #26
	Date :	4/27/2005 5:15:09 PM Author : WARDOG
		I have designed a big wave fin that is a match made in heaven for the Cross 117...my 10" (25cm) WARDOG FreeWeed...also works very well in the Cross 102 and other mid-volume FreeWave/FreeRide boards... http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_freeride_boards1.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_freeride_boards2.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/wardog_freeweed_10_powerbox.jpg Here's the 10" US Box on the Exocet OWave 105: http://www.surfingsports.com/images/exocet_105_freeweed_10.jpg Customer testimonials here: http://www.surfingsports.com/customer_testimonials.asp Loosens the board up tremendously...I can bust a tail slide going down the line...getting back upwind in light air is no problemo...encourages rail to rail action....carries a 7.4m2 Aerotech Phantom...fin is good to 8.0m2 for a 90kg sailor... Here's a 114kg sailor using it on the Cross 117 with a 6.8m2 Phantom... http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_gbeach_phantom68_cross117.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_g_beach9.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_g_beach1.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_g_beach6.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/willv_g_beach7.jpg Makes the Cross 117 feel like a blown up version of the UWave 88... You can load the fin up and then unleash it's fury on the wave... My 9.75" WD Wave also works pretty good...for lighter sailors and/or sailors with less back foot pressure...pic is Tuttle, but we also make them in Powerbox and US box... http://surfingsports.com/images/wd_wave_975.jpg Fresh out of the oven is the 22cm (9.75") version...works killer on the UWave 88 and OWaves...and smaller wave boards... http://surfingsports.com/images/wd_freeweed_875_pbox.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/wardog_freeweed_875.jpg Also, new is the 7.5" (19cm)... http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_75.jpg Here's a comparison shot of the 7.5" & 8.75" to my conventional 9"... http://surfingsports.com/images/freeweed_sm_compare.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/wd_wave_90.jpg Warm winds and waves...{:~) WARDOG http://surfingsports.com (Remove XXX to reply) 888.805.9978




	Post number : #27
	Date :	5/5/2005 6:55:34 AM Author : Iva
		Haven't ridden either, but wouldn't single footstrap ('cause of the Powerbox) on the Cross make it more "natural" a wave board than the Aero (Tuttle), which doesn't have a single back strap? I guess that you can use the offset strap holes on the Aero for a single, angled strap. Would that be as user-friendly? Probably mean changing the strap depending on tack sailed on waves? BTW, the continual "finbox wars" are a real PITA!!, especially if you've already got a few fins for a specific finbox type. Iva




	Post number : #28
	Date :	5/5/2005 1:27:44 PM Author : Rooster
		Hey WARDOG, How much do your fins retail for and how do I go about getting one in Aus. Waiting on delivery of my Cross 117 and have purchaced a Select 26.5cm, but your 25 sounds good. "The boys are going off out there"....:~




	Post number : #29
	Date :	5/5/2005 4:52:45 PM Author : WARDOG
		Hi Rooster, http://surfingsports.com/images/wardog_freeweed_10_powerbox.jpg G-10 construction... They are $120 USD...domestic US shipping is $5...shipping Down Under via USPS Express Mail is $15 USD...we'll throw in a tshirt to make it worth your while... You can email me offline, (addie below or on footer of every page on website)... or use this secure and encrypted link...follow instructions...price will be as discussed...include tshirt sizing... http://www.surfingsports.com/product.asp?prod=secure_cc_info WARDOG http://www.surfingsports.com 888.805.9978 (Remove XXX in email addie to respond)




	Post number : #30
	Date :	5/23/2005 12:27:42 AM Author : rooster
		Hey Wardog, surely you have got your Aero by now. Interested in the verdict dude! Or has your season come to an end up there? We are in winter in Aus. but have been getting incredible wind and swell. My OW is getting RSI. Love it




	Post number : #31
	Date :	5/23/2005 3:59:52 PM Author : WARDOG
		Hi Rooster, Prolly get the new '06 OW 106 before the freakin' Aero...virtual board...vaporware...;-) "Interested in the verdict dude! " You'll get it soon enough...and like always...uncensored...pure and frank... Supposedly 2 weeks out... In the meantime...a new shipment of the Cross has arrived...quite a few were shipped out on Friday...should be lots of happy reports pouring forth in the next several weeks... "Or has your season come to an end up there? We are in winter in Aus. but have been getting incredible wind and swell." Dude...our season is raging...we sail all year round here in Central Calli... We are in the peak of the season now...will hold strong through October... Here are the last several days...should give you sumpin' , sumpin' ...to crow about...;-) http://surfingsports.com/jalama_spring/index.html http://surfingsports.com/cali_may/index.html Other recent wavesailing activity... http://surfingsports.com/brian_caserio/index.html http://surfingsports.com/cali_spring/index.html http://surfingsports.com/cali_spring/index2.html http://surfingsports.com/super_freaks/index.html http://surfingsports.com/cali/index.html http://surfingsports.com/brooks/index.html WARDOG http://surfingsports.com




	Post number : #32
	Date :	5/24/2005 3:27:33 AM Author : rooster
		Wardog, great pics. The rooster is crowing:) My Cross is meant to be on its way, but with our wind lately it will be too big! We had a mini-tornado through my town last week, the day after using 4.2 all day. No one surfed Margies cause it was too big and nasty!!!! Nice looking waves, but wrong direction for us port tack sailors over here. Those super freak sail look cool too. Not many crew use them here. How do they go? Most crew are on NP or Severne in west aus. Im an Ezzy man myself




	Post number : #33
	Date :	5/24/2005 11:39:07 AM Author : John
		I'm curious... Any detials on 06 OW 106? John




	Post number : #34
	Date :	5/24/2005 1:37:05 PM Author : WARDOG
		Maybe it's a subliminal suggestion... I like the sound of 106 vs. 105...kinda rolls off the tongue better...;-) Anyways...no hard details, other than it will be offered in a lighter "Pro" construction...supposed to be faster...hmmmm...lighter and faster is good... Obviously, the Exo boyz have protos out now...and could comment if they felt inclined...;-) Regardless, sight unseen...I have one on order for mid-Summer delivery... The sessions that I've gotten lately on my UWave II 78/88's have been all time...killer boards... WARDOG http://surfingsports.com




	Post number : #35
	Date :	5/26/2005 2:40:34 PM Author : Mobay
		Just wanted to give some feedback on the Cross 117. I was out in small B&J conditions yesterday. I had rigged up a 5.3 and my Evo 80, hoping there was enough wind. All my buddies were on 6.0s with 90 liter wave-ish board and having a so-so time. I came back in and went to get my �Wardog setup� (the Cross 117 and a 6.8). I decided to try out the stock fin and put the straps in slalom mode. Being lazy, I ended up keeping the 5.3. What happened next blew me away�. I weigh 165lbs for what it�s worth. Before I could get my back foot in the strap I had rocketed onto a plane and was airborne over a nice piece of swell. Next, I went into a dedicated slalom stance, locked down the sail and loaded up the fin. The board raced into another gear and just blew past everything! Having spent most of my time on wave boards, I couldn�t believe how well this went upwind. Then I turned off the wind and the thing screamed away. I was always in 100% control in the chop and just keep on busting the biggest grin! I was truly impressed with the speed despite some board reviews saying that the Cross boards are not that fast. For my tastes, this thing is plenty fast. On the way back in I wanted to test out how maneuverable this was on a swell face. I thought the stock fin would have made turning hard. Once again, I just kept busting the biggest smile as I carved up and down on the swell. It just kept getting better and better. Oh yea, did I mention that jumping this is a hoot! I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this board! It rocks! I was able to use a smaller sail than everyone else and ended up going faster and having more fun. Who would have thought that a 5.3 would have worked on this? What a blast.




	Post number : #36
	Date :	5/26/2005 3:45:03 PM Author : Brian M.
		Thanks for the review Mobay! My "Wardog setup" Cross 117 arrives today!!!! Can't wait to throw in the 10" Freeweed and see how this thing kicks my light wind sailing into another plateau (my 6.8 is waiting and ready!....not that I'm wishing for light winds all the time!) Bri




	Post number : #37
	Date :	6/3/2005 6:38:28 PM Author : FreeStyler
		Bonjour a tous, I've just wanted to thank everyone for the great posts on this board which helped me decide to get a Cross 117. Just got it last week and sailed it on the bay (NJ, USA)...and can't say enough about how good it felt with my 7.5 in lite wind. I believe I've got planing not any later than 2 guys who had formula boards and were rigging 9's (I weigh 170 lb). Just a question though some sailors suggest using just one back foot strap if the intention is to mess around with freestyle, even in very lite wind. Others believe that a single back strap should be used only for waves, as pointing gets more difficult with a single one, especially on this board with such a wide tail. I'm not concerned about waves for now, but want to get used to chop hops, jump jibes, and eventually try willy skippers or vulcans...so, with this goal in mind, am I better off getting used to a single back strap for getting air...? or perhaps not, if you guys feel that is not really needed for jumping, and yet I may loose board range if I don't put two straps in the back. Thanks again!




	Post number : #38
	Date :	6/7/2005 2:01:32 AM Author : John I
		Not much of a freestyler here, more a waver. I kept the double backs in place and sailed the 117 in both big side/sideoff and side onshore conditions. Felt good that way. Dunno if the single back may make your stance so inboard as to lose any "pop." Give a try either way.




	Post number : #39
	Date :	6/7/2005 1:52:35 PM Author : MoBay
		If you have real waves to sail in then I'd go single strap. Wardog is lucky enough to sail in some great waves and I believe he only uses the single strap. For all-around blasting and carving big swell I like to use the double strap set up. The speed is much, much better and I don�t feel that I give up too much maneuverability.




	Post number : #40
	Date :	6/9/2005 2:29:12 AM Author : FreeStyler
		ok, thanks for the responses which, by the way, it's what I hear from our local sailors...so then I don't quite get why in instructional freestyle videos, e.g., Peter Hart's Showin' Off or seeing Andy Brant et al. doing freestyle, they seem to favor the one backstrap in flat water and talk about the benefits of it. Maybe is just for those serious into aerials...in addition to waves, as you guys suggested.




	Post number : #41
	Date :	6/9/2005 2:57:22 AM Author : surfer
		could it just be dogma just as easily?




	Post number : #42
	Date :	6/15/2005 2:57:21 PM Author : Borby
		Just looking at comparisons myself. Have any of you had the opportunity to look at both the cross 117 and the aero 117?? What do you think of the fact that the cross is only of single wood construction?? I like my boards to be as strong as possible, does this mean that there has been a strength v's weight compromise?




	Post number : #43
	Date :	6/15/2005 3:18:27 PM Author : Mobay
		I've been jumping the 117 a lot recently and no issues (so far). It does have a bit of a hollow feel if you land flat. Can't comment on the Aero but I'm sure Wardog will be posting up a comparison. Sounds like both boards are great boards so it will be a high class comparison to say the least.




	Post number : #44
	Date :	6/15/2005 3:20:14 PM Author : WARDOG
		Hi Borby, Exocet has prolly the lowest failure rate of any board in the industry... It could be argued that they are a bit overbuilt, if anything...that's why there will be a lighter construction option offered this year (2006)... I have been pounding away at my Cross 117 since last fall and not a single issue...ridden it in mast high waves...real waves...at Jalama Beach... There's a local guy who is 250 lbs. and he is doing the same...so far no issues... I recently received the first batch of Starboard Aeros in North America... Here is the 127: http://www.surfingsports.com/starboard_aero_127/index.html There are pics of it next to the Cross 117... Here are a few shots of the Cross 117 and OWave 105 a couple of days ago riding waves in very light air... http://www.surfingsports.com/cali_lightair_waves/index.html WARDOG http://www.surfingsports.com




	Post number : #45
	Date :	6/16/2005 4:36:00 AM Author : bory
		Great snaps. Rooster showed me his Cross the other day and I was very impressed with the shape, rails, design... I will eagerly wait for a comparison on the two boards before I make a final decision. Hopefully a magazine will cover these two boards soon and give them decent write-up.




	Post number : #46
	Date :	6/17/2005 12:46:23 AM Author : WARDOG
		Alrighty then...here's some more snaps borby boy broski... Side by sides of both 117's... http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_1.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_2.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_3.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_4.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_5.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_6.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_7.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_8.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/aero117_cross117_9.jpg FWIW, it's been my experience that the final purchase decision when I'm on the tellie with the customer, will prolly come down to color...blue vs. yeller...and fin box...Powerbox vs. Tuttle...;-) WARDOG (Purveyor of the best damn windsurfing gear in the world) http://surfingsports.com




	Post number : #47
	Date :	6/17/2005 4:34:28 AM Author : borby
		Interesting photos!! Good to see them side-by-side. Maybe its all an optical illusion, but what is the story, the photos on this site has a picture of a board with a squared off nose and the real board in your photos and the board I have seen has the rounded nose???




	Post number : #48
	Date :	6/17/2005 5:11:36 AM Author : WARDOG
		The squared off nose was a prototype...pre-production model... I'm stoked that the production model is rounded, duck bill, style...don't care for the sawed-off nose...would like to see a little more flip, right at the tip... but, it hasn't been a problem in the waves...as there is a touch of tail rocker that compensates , if you roll back before going over a mound of big whitewater... WARDOG http://surfingsports.com




	Post number : #49
	Date :	6/17/2005 8:38:45 AM Author : borby
		Sweet times!! Looks like the wind is up tomorrow morning and hopefully the rooster will be out his givin' it the maiden voyage. lovin the details so far, and the final feedback will help secue the deal. thanks wardog.




	Post number : #50
	Date :	6/19/2005 8:38:59 AM Author : Rooster
		Well dudes finally got out on my new 117 Cross, in conditions that were exactly what I bought it for. 12 knots and a nice swell, there was barely any whitecaps!!!!! Up went the 6.9 ezzy and away went the Rooster like a flash. Very surprised how floaty the board is at idle but when you start to plane the volume disappears. Have to say that I am very stoked. Turns like a smaller board. Thanks Exocet for getting the big back out there ripping. Only problem now is with sailing in such light wind you need to contend with all the fisherman, who I would never see sailing before cause it was too windy. Thanks to the recommendations from some of the forum users, particulaly Wardog, your advise is invaluable.




	Post number : #51
	Date :	6/19/2005 5:05:38 PM Author : Brook
		Great to hear! Enjoy the "Hippo" as it's affectionately called back here.




	Post number : #52
	Date :	6/20/2005 8:33:41 AM Author : borby
		Can confirm the Roosters comments. Couldnt wipe the smile from the big fellas face, even after he had hit the reef a couple of times. Nice to know that its winter solstice tomorrow. Winter blues I know, but at least it will start getting lighter each day from here on in. All we need after that is a bit of wind & waves. Come on Huey!




	Post number : #53
	Date :	7/8/2005 2:15:22 AM Author : Rooster
		Took the Cross out again the other day and must say I'm very happy with my choice. We had a 1-2 foot shore break, 3-4 foot swell and a 5 knot cross-shore current and the board was awesome. Challenging conditions at the best of times and the Cross was jumping and riding really well. The same day a light weight went out and got nailed, trashing his gea,r I was still flying. Never had that happen before. Normally I get nailed in light wind not the featherweights. As far as my original post goes, it seems there is a fair bit of interest regarding the Aero on the *board site at the moment. All aside very happy with the Cross. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The boys are going off out there!




	Post number : #54
	Date :	7/8/2005 2:38:40 AM Author : Brian M.
		Right on Rooster! I'm experiencing "new" light wind sensations on my Cross 117 as well. For the longest time I had limited myself by never sailing boards larger than 100 liters, as the race/formula style boards never interested me, plus I wanted something that worked well in waves. I am super stoked on my Cross 117!!! I owe Wardog plenty of beers for talking me into the Cross 117 (of course paired with a Phantom 6.8). The other weekend, my kiter friends never thought I'd be able to get out in such light winds and ride some waves. Well I proved them wrong. They were impressed and very interested in the board! I don't wish light wind on any of us windsurfers, but this has pumped my stoke factor up in marginal conditions!!! :)




	Post number : #55
	Date :	7/8/2005 6:26:30 AM Author : WillV
		Hey Bri M, What up buddy? You ARE stoked huh? Me too! Yep, Exocet (and Wardog) nailed it with the Cross 117 - it's my "huckleberry" board right now - so sweet...I can match speeds with the waves, instead of dragging on my short-board - also can "stall" the CROSS while still slow-planing and then "jump on it" to go DTL. Easy to tack onto a wave or "chicken jibe" - basically a do-it-all shape! It jumps like crazy, carves the hardest jibes I can muster, even way over-powered with no spin out whatsoever...even though I know it's too big a board sometimes out there, it still handles the conditions - that's saying a lot. The sweet spot seems to be 5.7-6.8 for me - had one of the best DTL sessions ever with the Severne 6.2 .... Good stuff brotha'.... -WillV- 250lbs/113kg




	Post number : #56
	Date :	7/8/2005 7:58:03 AM Author : Rooster
		Sounds like Wardog will be having one hell of a p*ss up with all the beers he is owed!! I owe you my fair share as well, but have to say you guys would have your work cut out keeping up drinking with us Aussies! Anytime down under boys keen to share some secret spots, and beers with ya all!




	Post number : #57
	Date :	7/8/2005 4:42:48 PM Author : John A
		Hey WillV, Where was the place you had one of the best DTL sessions? I'm on vacation this week. I'm in S.F. area. John




	Post number : #58
	Date :	7/8/2005 5:03:31 PM Author : WillV
		Spot-on Rooster - one day we might just make it out your way! Likewise if you ever come out to the US... I'll be supplying Wardog the endless beer today after a nice pm sesh.... WillV




	Post number : #59
	Date :	7/8/2005 5:13:21 PM Author : John A
		I'm on vacation from NC. I'm not sure where we're going yet. John




	Post number : #60
	Date :	7/9/2005 11:14:58 AM Author : WARDOG
		Hoodoggy!!! FREE BEERS?!?! SECRET SPOTS?!?! We're saddling up... Rooster...howz dat supply of Newcastle holding up?...;-) Best beer in the world is cold and YOURS!!!...no pissing match there...;-) Speaking of secret spots...we gots a few of our own...;-) Took the Willster for a boat ride today...nice little Southie from off of Kiwiland last week starting to show... http://surfingsports.com/images/hammerhead_01.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/hammerhead_02.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/hammerhead_03.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/hammerhead_04.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/hammerhead_05.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/ranchlands.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/cant_tell_you.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/ranch1.jpg http://surfingsports.com/images/ranch_doubles.jpg Cross 117: We can all thank Patrice , Steve, & Team Exocet for listening... The broskis that picked them up are calling me "huckleberry hound"...;-) The kiters haven't quite figured out what's happening yet...their wave counts are being severely impacted... Re: Cross vs. Aero Both good wave riders...a few nuances set them apart that interested parties might not see from Post 46... The Cross fin box is over 1 1/2" more forward...nice for initiating turns on the wave face... The Cross is first to plane and is faster... The Aero has a little more nose flip and goes over pitching , breaking waves just a little easier...if you wanted to improve the Cross any, my only suggestion would be to bend it's nose up at the end, doesn't need quite as much overall nose rocker as the OW 105...just a little flip at the tip... http://surfingsports.com/images/owave_105_nose.jpg Speaking of the OW 105...should have the '06 in a couple of weeks... They are steaming towards the states as we speak...should have plenty of time left in our season to snag some waves on that puppy... WARDOG http://surfingsports.com




	Post number : #61
	Date :	7/9/2005 10:57:27 PM Author : Brian M.
		Hey big brutha' WillV! Yep, stoked with the Cross 117. It really suits our conditions here in North Carolina. I'm sure it's a bit of a toss up between the Cross & Aero, but it's all good as long as we're all out there riding and having a good time. The Cross is my first Exocet board and I'm really pleased with it. Felt right at home the first time I stepped on it. Funny, before I had it I was wondering how it handled the chop (it was a concern).....then I saw the pictures of you and Wardog at G-beach....I was sold after seeing those pictures! They answered my question! I tell ya, that Wardog is one hellu'va salesman! :) See he is already throwin' out the lure with the mention of the '06 Exo above! ha ha ha Nice pic's of the "bro's" kickin' it on the Hammerhead!!!! Hope the lil' one's are doing great! Me and my lil' Wind Ian had a blast playing out in the shorebreak today (no wind of course or I'd be writing about that)...just loving life! Later! PS. What you got up your sleeve unloaded the 92?




	Post number : #62
	Date :	7/12/2005 7:22:25 AM Author : willv
		Hey Bri, Very cool to hear the familia is enjoying the Summer. I heard the story about your "purchase decision" - pretty funny but the truth is in the pictures. The Hamerhead is pretty killer - super-stable.... RE: EVO 92: I really want to keep the Evo 92 as it IS a sweet board - but with my added 10lbs of "muscle" ;) - I need a bit more float; the OW 105 seems to fit the bill for me - I love the Exocet's - really can't believe how right-on they are with that marketing slogan "Shaped for You" - shit, how'd they know? :)) Really, almost every time I finish sailing the Cross I look down and see that damn slogan - and it just sticks! Pretty funny stuff.... I just received my '05 OW 105 - so looking forward to running thru the paces with her...hopefully a San Carlos trip will provide the venue and nice South Swell. To: John A The spot we sailed the CROSS and AERO together was at Arroyo Laguna, on California's Central Coast. Google it up and you'll find lots of pics in the newsgroup from Wardog... Try Davenport or Wadell (lots of kiters :( - or ask the local shop guys in SF area for a recommendation...I haven't sailed up there yet.... Have a good vacation - sure to get some wind in SF area. L8t, WillV




	Post number : #63
	Date :	7/12/2005 12:35:54 PM Author : John A
		I'm back at home. I had a decent session at Davenport last Saturday with the south swells. I didn't get the big waves I wanted but got around head high waves. I'm stoked! I'm already thinking of when I'm coming back to CA coast! John




	Post number : #64
	Date :	7/12/2005 2:33:25 PM Author : mike
		just saw my first aero 117 today, and saw the cross last week for the first time earlier this week. I must admit that I am not brand biased as I own both a star & an exocet, but I must say, at close look, the star aero is one of the most unatractive boards i have seen. it looks way to big to be considered wavey like the illistration on the main paige of star would like you to believe(personaly i think this is digitaly enhanced anyway). just to big and bulky. the cross on the otherhand was still big but didnt have the imediate impresions on me that the star did. the cross looks much more manuverable though i do have a problem with these boards beeing marketed as wave type boards as thay clearly are not.




	Post number : #65
	Date :	7/12/2005 4:51:11 PM Author : WARDOG
		Mike writes: "i do have a problem with these boards beeing marketed as wave type boards as thay clearly are not." Clearly, this is going to be a B E E E G problem in light air, especially when there are waves...;-) Some more digitally enhanced images...;-) http://www.surfingsports.com/starboard_aero_127/index.html http://www.surfingsports.com/cali_lightair_waves/index.html http://www.surfingsports.com/aero_surf/index.html WARDOG http://www.surfingsports.com




	Post number : #66
	Date :	7/15/2005 1:48:30 PM Author : Brian M.
		Hey Will, let us know how the OW 105 works for you! I hear ya on the extra float! That is the crazy thing about working out. Lose weight, but then gain more back in the form of muscle!! I need to replace my 77L board and man there are a lots of choices! The new Exo Waves look really sweet (shortened up and wider). Tough choice between that and the the UWs. I've got my short list down to 3 - 4 boards (2 being Exocet). Can't wait to hear Wardog's report on the new Exo Wave 105 (which I think he said is arriving sometime soon...hopefully he'll test an 85 as well..hint...hint...hint!). Anyway, I got time to sit back and wait for reports, as we're in the dog days of our light wind summer! I'm really digging these shorter wider boards (w/more volume). Things seem to be really coming together. Their range is outstanding and the remain comfortable to ride when overpowered, so you really don't notice the volume. Then the volume helps when things back off so you can schlogg back in! Best of both worlds!!! Later,




	Post number : #67
	Date :	7/16/2005 5:39:56 PM Author : John I
		Mike, try it then you'll know what the rave is all about with the Cross 117. In 10-15 mph winds, bobbing for waves, it rocks. Not traditional winds means not standard procedures for kit selections. Oh, it has put the stoke back into alot of plateau'ed skill limited people as well... Several friends' spouses are now looking forward to sailing again, 'cause the gybing just got easier again.




	Post number : #68
	Date :	7/17/2005 1:57:14 PM Author : Derek
		Anybody used Cross 117 in 5 metre weather ? Hows it cope in harsh chop ?




	Post number : #69
	Date :	7/18/2005 7:11:03 AM Author : rooster
		Hey Derek, used my 117 with a 4.7 Ezzy last week in head high waves. Went great. I weigh 107kgs. The reason I used my Cross was not intentional only that I left my OW 95 at home, so had to use it. Saying that it handled the onshore chop really well and was jumping like a demon. Next time might just use the Cross anyway cause its so much fun.



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