Have had a 2-3 year sabatical from the sport (moving house, getting married and doing some dinghy sailing) but this year is my big return.



Can somebody give me some advice as to whether it is worth considering a newer board (have got Bic Veloce 298). I know technology has moved on, but has it moved on so significantly to justify a newer board. Would a new board be any use without new sails? I am an average level of sailor, but still need to perfect my carve gybes and waterstarts.



Thanks

I would say that although boards have moved on a bit. I would probably stay with your board as long as its still servicable. One reason is that you may be used to it and it will be easier to get back onto after a long break. Another reason is that it is a good _base_ for learning waterstarts/gybes etc. Once you have mastered these you will probably want a smaller board aswell and might have an idea what aspect of windsurfing interests you most.eg. waves/speed/slalom/formula etc. I wouldnt buy two boards of similar size unless you only sail in light winds on lakes for example. You would be better off increasing your sail quiver to cope with various windstrengths

Fully agree. I sail a Bic Adagio.. 1991 ?? !! I had a similar break from the sport.. wife, , house, baby, twins, extension... ARGHHHHH.



But now I'm back in to it big _style_. All I did is buy a new mast boom and sails.. all super light stuff. In any sort of wind I find the board seems to be the least important bit of kit as I have no problem keeping up with most people (well most other average sailor type people anyway).



That said - I am gonna buy a new board this year .. i think its about time !

Surely the main reason to buy a new board is for all the new pretty graphics? I know that's why I bought mine>