It's me again..., OK thinking caps on please coz I can't find mine. I've got a used 5.8 North wave sail, circa 2005(?) that I've yet to try out. An opportunity has arosen to buy a used Gaastra 7.5 Pilot but wondering if the gap is too big between the 2 sizes. I'm 100kg (today) and want to use the 7.5 on the Kona One/Style which I think would be ideal for use on open water and smaller surf (c/board removed). But if the wind honks, and for my weight, what ballpark in wind knots can I hold the 7.5 down in? 18 knots max?
It's definitely doable if you're on a budget (like many of us).
I used to have a gap from a 5.9 and a 7.4 and there was a bit of crossover in their ranges. I could hold down the 7.5 up to 20-22 knots and the 5.9 could plane in 15 knots. These are relatively modern 07-08 freeride sails.
There will be days when a 6.5 will be a better sail choice however...
I think they are probably close enough in size, as shear tip says, but the Pilot's aren't very durable if you are looking to take it in the waves. They are more of a budget sail line. I have a 6m and have broken a batten, split the monofilm in the bottom panel and the tack pulley flew to pieces last time I tried to use it.
The Pilot is definitely a entry level to easy free ride sail. In a decent blow you will find it wont handle what you want from it.
maybe something more along the lines of a used Saber or Excess??
The gap isnt too big if you are not going to use the sails for hardcore speed or wave sailing.
Give Sam or Chris a call at Windsurfnsnow on 9971 0999.
As you get hooked on windsurfing a great sail range would be 5.8, 6.5, 7.5 more money of course but when hooked these would be your most used sails.
WS&S is where this sail originally came from except its now $150 cheaper and in very similar condition.
admittedly the sail is not a a top of the line sail but served me well in a progressive stage, and i believe that's what you are kind of in again after 20yrs returning too windsurfing. Even this sail depowers a lot better than the ones from back then
It's fine to 20 knots especially if your 100kgs (i've been out with it in more at 85kg) and then you've got the 5.8 for when it really blows?
My recommendations would always be full X ply for durability if its going in real waves though.
Not really caring if the sail gets sold, just good to get it out of the garage and used by someone again.
