Sport Today

I seem to have an odd problem. Whenever sailing with my new 6.0 m Loft Lip I
tend to go up-wind all the time.
Board is Exocet Speed Slider 77 (135 liters), 44 cm Race Select fin.

Why does this happen? Is it due to rig t***, mast foot placement or is
it just that I'm afraid to go too fast when it is very windy? I also have
problems getting my back foot into the strap when going upwind like this.

In less wind I use my 7.0 North Warp (fully cammed)  and have no problems
planing in most directions. Both feet in straps and hooked in..

--
Helge

I always have that problem when I use a fin that's too big.

OK, It seems that everybody agrees that the fin is too big.
In fact the reccommended sail range for this board is 6,5 to 9.0.

The next question then is: Should I spend money on a smaller fin for this
board? If yes, can anyone reccomend a good fin for 6.0 conditions. The board
is  very wide (77 cm), but at 210 lbs I can really use that width to get
planing..

I plan to get another board at around 100 liters pretty soon, but most
likely it will not have the Tuttle fin box like the Exocet has.

--
Helge

Hi Helge,
I ride the same board and It does tend to want to head upwind when
pushing its limits as you say. I use a 51superfast for most of my
sailing 7.5 & 8.5  and change down to a 46 on my 6.5 . From my
experience with this board I would say If the 44 fin dosn't feel to
big, that is: if its not wanting to lift out of the water or  wanting
to rail the board. then at your weight (i'm about 190lb) I would say
its ok.
For sailing my 6.5 I have the base set to near minimum front foot strap
outboard  and I try keep a lot of pressure on it ( even pushing) this
widish board can easily handle the leverage. I developed this style
mainly because I was spining out a lot. but it seemed to cure both
problems......it is nice to be able to head upwind at will tho.
As far as the rear foot strap goes, I have also have this problem as it
twists quite easily (bad stance?) and dosn't hold its shape well, don't
know of a remedy other than trying to replace the straps - not sure if
its the same reason you can't get in.
let me say that with this board a 6.0 and 220lb it must be some serious
wind - I only use my 6.5 with the SS77 when I have no other board with
me.

I hope this may help
DavMen

I also think the fin is a bit large, but not unmangable for your weight.
I'm not throwing stones, I'm 250 lbs.  What works for some of the lighter
guys doesn't always work for the big guys.  You might try moving the mast
foot forward a bit to see if that helps.  Believe it or not, that may help
getting into the back strap by raking the sail back more.