Windsurfing Equipment Tests - American Windsurfer

Boards: BIC @ Maui

Note: one of the few not pictured

Control Bump Speed Style King Surf

BIC Saxo 264 Free Wave

“Grand slam home run” is the phrase that came to mind when we sailed the Saxo 264. Quick, fast, smooth and loose, it’s simply a great board for the intermediate to advanced high-wind and wave sailor. Its combination of excellent wave and bump performance, tough construction, good components and reasonable price make it the best value on the market. Of course, our most expert testers found it, like the Saxo 270, a bit tame for their taste, but that has to be viewed as a plus by anyone who isn’t a seasoned expert.

Power Rating 53
Length 8’6”
Width 21.1”
Volume 88 Liters
Weight 18.1 lbs.
Planing 6.0
Reaching 7.5
Upwind 5.0
Tight turns 9.5
Wide turns 8.0
Ding rating 48+
Price $1,199
Includes: Straps, Pads, Fin

Recommended sail: Wave 4.5 to 6.5

Note: one of the few not pictured

Control Bump Speed Style King Surf

BIC Saxo 270 Full Ride

A smooth-riding, smooth-jibing board, the Saxo 270 has the sort of comfortingly predictable all-around performance that makes it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced shortboarders. It has a clear slalom bias but it’s also loose enough to be fun in surf. While some expert-and pro-level testers judged the 270 somewhat tame, less expert testers quite enjoyed its domesticated qualities.

Power Rating 57
Length 8’9”
Width 22.1”
Volume 97 Liters
Weight 20.5 lbs.
Planing 7.0
Reaching 8.5
Upwind 7.0
Tight turns 7.0
Wide turns 9.5
Ding rating 48+
Price $1,199
Includes: Straps, Pads, Fin

Recommended sail:
Wave & Freeride 5.0 to 7.5

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