Tomo, we have been running Bics in our SUP School and through our store for a few years now. They are excellent quality and very good value.
BIC is stepping up for 2011/12. There are two constructions:
1. ACS Heavier construction, cheaper but incredibly durable. Great family board
2. ACE TECH Lighter offering more peformance and BIC quality and durablity
ACS $849 $899 with alloy paddle and leash
ACE TECH $1099 $1299 with Adj. paddle and leash.
This is the 2012 range that has just landed. The 11'4 is a great all-rounder. We use it in our school and have been impressed with the durability, glide and stability. They also surf really well.
See link & add below.
I'm just starting out and had been looking at a second hand board as recommended on these forums. But this deal would give me a new board, Paddle & leash for the same money.
So I thought to good to be true? must be crap? Maybe not?
I'm 192cm and 104Kg so the 11'4 would be my pick.http://www.dhsv.or.westozkiteboarding.com.au/sup/boards/bic
ACS Jungle SUP (Complete Package)
ACS Jungle 10'4 or 11'4 SUP + Polycarbonate Paddle + Board Leash) ONLY $899
This is an unbeatable package deal available for pre-order now at only $899 for a complete board (with deck pad), paddle and leash!! To order call Jason on 0411 510 514
PS: Extra discount for the plug ??? ;-)
Sorry AA
Just re-read your post (thanks for the detail by the way) and see you are doing them for the same money.
As you are using them for the school they must be ok for beginners which makes them ideal for me.
Obviously they are cheaper than some other makes for the same size.
Looking at another $300 to $500 in most cases. That's about 30% difference.
Are the other more expensive brands worth the extra money? Just wondering.
BTW love this forum, thanks for all the info!
I have surfed the 10'4 and was surprised how well it surfed. Most 11'4 x 31" boards do feel big when you are used to a performance board. When you are starting out however you will be glad of a bit of extra stability.
Tomo as always you do get what you pay for. BIC leverage their huge volumes to pass on savings. At this price point these boards represent very good value. The main performance trade off with the cheaper boards is weight. Quality and durability can also be issues. We have found BIC boards hold up well in our school if that is any indication.
Anyone tried wind surfing the jungle bic boards?
Is it worth getting one to wind surf occasionally and SUP 95% of the time? or do the boards compromise on both SUP and wind?
Panda, I havent Windsurfed it myelf, but basically the WIND version is
"a SUP board that you can Windsurf".
Here are pics of the new 10'4 ACE TECH that just landed.
Nice attention to detail on a board at this price.
Adjustable paddles are on their way. I will post pics when I get them.