The Rocket Plus makes it easy (for itself) - not only on the scales, but also in the gliding disciplines with its low weight and maximum width. 73 centimetres to 113 litres is a statement. Tabou is less focussed on spectacular shape features: The cut outs are not oversized, the V and the double concaves look very moderate at the back of the board. The volume is distributed quite evenly without any significant thinning of the nose section. And with a length of 2.37 metres, which ends in a - high-gloss - planing surface without rocker, the shape also has one of the most important features for passive planing.
No wonder that the Rocket quickly gains a lead of a few metres in light planing winds, which is difficult to catch up on. The board glides freely and directly, even if it is not quite as inherently stable, and therefore always needs to be guided a little. This works very well from the comfortable standing position, even the inside positions can still be used properly on the rounded deck. The thin footpads provide quite a firm contact and offer the advantage that large feet hardly notice the rear edge of the somewhat narrow front pads.
The board can do everything - if the rider actively teases it out
The riding feel is rather pithy and crisp, only the Goya Bolt is even more direct under the soles in choppy water. The Rocket Plus therefore appeals to the more experienced surfer, who will certainly enjoy the extremely sporty feel of the board while still maintaining good controllability. Not as comfortable as on a JP Supersport or Starboard Futura, but with an impressive feeling of acceleration even in medium winds.
The board can do anything in a jibe - if the rider actively coaxes it out of the board. There is no built-in radius, but all jibes from tight jibes to fast carving jibes can be ridden smoothly - if the board is actively guided. Surfers with small feet should note that the foot straps are much smaller than usual. With smaller bare feet, the Velcro must overlap further than intended.
Tabou Rocket Plus - the conclusion
The Rocket lives up to its name - not because the board rises uncontrollably into orbit, but because of its remarkable acceleration and performance. As a plus, it also has very sporty jibing characteristics.
Acceleration, glide, speed
Loop size
-
Technical data Tabou Rocket Plus 113
The pads are thin and firm, which provides a firm feeling under the heels, an advantage of the thin pads is that large feet do not feel the edge on the heel uncomfortably.
- Length: 238 cm
- Width: 73 cm
- Weight: 6.98 kg
- Length of sliding surface: 67 cm
- Rocker: 0 mm
- Shape at 33 cm from tail: slight double concave without V, 0 mm
- Shape at 100 cm from tail: slight double concave with slight V, 6 mm
- Price: 2599 Euro
- Info under tabou-boards.com
all data measured by surf
Tabou Rocket Plus: Available sizes and data
Weight specifications 103 and 113 litres: LTD/Team; 123 to 143 litres: MTE/LTD/Team. Prices for the MTE/LTD design: 1799/2299 euros
