| Each year my first run out on the new slalom kit always proves to be a baptism of fire as I attempt to get re-accustomed to the programmed-in crusading performance that takes everything to maximum velocity - coming ready or not! |
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| This year is even more exciting as I am sure just to whet our appetites the new RS sails were actually tested throughout the 2010 PWA season by the Neil Pryde team - in fact these sails already have the PWA title to their name - thus we can be certain that the final designs that went to production are more polished and performance charged than ever before! |
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| Initial Impressions The first shipment of the MKIV RS:Slalom sails arrived here in mid February. I like everyone who had placed pre-orders was seriously excited about what they were going to be like! As I quickly set about rigging a 5.5m it was apparent that the engineering and attention to detail is once again second-to-none. |
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| Performance Updates As with the previous range the new MKIV rigs very easily and sets in a clean manner. There is definitely more luff curve than in the MKIII design, this has undoubtedly increased the body tension so the top-end power and stability will improve as a consequence. The MKIII was fairly soft by comparison and had a huge natural twisting ability, but could easily be over-downhauled. I feel that users will find the MKIV easier to set. |
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With the new Integrated Compact Clew design the MKIV will offer even more twist but delivering that in a much more controlled and clean manner with improved aerodynamics. The profile stability in the main draft area has been enhanced so the performance in the extreme end of the range to be better than ever. Rigging the ICC proves to be very easy, just be sure to close the metal clasp before applying the downhaul and outhaul. |
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| Rigging The process is basically the same as all of the recent Pryde camber induced sail designs...but even if you have owned a MKII or MKIII it is definitely worth watching the film posted online (here) with the presentation made by Pieter Bijl from the Neil Pryde Design Centre. |
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| Availability I have received quite a few pre-orders but a few extra sails are in stock and further sails arrive in the spring. Check out the full information on the store page. Feel free to get in touch if you require further assistance regarding the MKIV... |
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