CrazyFly Raptor NEON LTD 136 x 41cm 2020
Reviews / Twin Tips
41,705
At A Glance
The Raptor series is CrazyFly's freeride/freestyle twin tip design, and the LTD Neon version we have on test for this issue is the most popular board in the line-up and not without reason. Designed for those riders who need a high-end freeride and freestyle board, with added luxuries, such as full carbon construction for unparalleled strength vs weight.
New for 2020, the Raptor LTD Neon has had an even further weight reduction thanks to the new weave in the Complex 4T5 Carbon, not only has it reduced weight but also increased the flex and added to comfort through choppy waters. There is also the addition of Double V tips for expert grip while loading up, and an ellipse double concave bottom shape for unrivalled comfort.
Supplied with good quality accessories, the Raptor LTD Neon is best ridden in straps rather than boots.
Sizes: 132 x 41 / 136 x 41 / 140 x 42 / 143 x 43
Smoothest of the smooth
On The Water
As with all CrazyFly boards, the Raptor LTD Neon is silky smooth from the get-go. A good width, held all the way to the tips, keeps more board in the water, for easy planing and a fast transfer into upwind cruising.
Speed is the theme with the Raptor LTD Neon; it has haste but not at the expense of comfort and style. Even in chop, the board munches it up with no quibble. Flatwater creates your own racetrack with which to try and beat records before boosting to infinity with the precise pop.
A high performing board, we found it excels when you really ride the board as opposed to mowing the lawn or cruising around. This is not to say it will not happily do this all day; however, the spark of this board lies with a lively rider who isn't afraid to play with every lump and bump of water which comes toward them or try their luck at every trick under the sun.
Not usually a point to note, but in this case is appropriate, the Neon element of this board saved our bacon when a classic winter squall came in and separated us from the board. Those bright streaks meant it was found in record time, and the fun could recommence.
Overall
CrazyFly have an uncanny ability to make all their boards excel in their design, and the Raptor LTD Neon is no exception. Smoothest of the smooth, it slices through all manner of water states with precision, control and style all at blistering top speeds. This board is indeed a unique piece of kit, and there is a reason it is the best-selling board in the line-up, which is no doubt set to continue.
This review was in Issue 80 of IKSURFMAG.
For more information visit CrazyFlyRelated
By Robin and Sukie
With years of kite sport experience combined, you can be sure you’ll be receiving the highest quality of knowledge on the best equipment the industry has to offer.
