| From a designer’s point of view:
With the creation of the 14' race class and the affordability that comes with the smaller size, it promises to be a worthwhile option for riders and an interesting design for shapers. For riders, the SIC X-14 is the best of both worlds; more manageable and thanks to its higher volume, still able to carry bigger riders. Simply put, length gets you a better glide. An accomplished rider can even compete against riders on 16' length boards. Also, our X-14 allows riders to compete in the fixed fin division when the rudder is removed, yet also have the ability to compete in the open division using the A.S.S. steering.
The X-14 is designed as a versatile, all-terrain performer handling chop and confused or bumpy waters with ease. It effortlessly glides in calm ocean conditions, lakes, inter-coastal waterways and protected bays.
The Hull:
The nose has prone paddleboard type characteristics. This helps with slicing through the chop. The front third of the board has a rolled V for good displacement qualities. The mid-section is fairly flat to maximize stability. And, the last third of the board has a panel V.
The Rocker:
The X-14 has a low rocker, which maximizes the waterline. During displacement a long waterline enables the highest possible hull speed.
The Deck:
The front third of the board has our trademark V spine incorporated. The mid-section has a contoured deck which gives riders the sensation that they can brace their feet against the cockpit edge.
The Rails:
The rails are full volume. It carries a rider up to 230 lbs. The Outline:
The nose is drawn like a competition longboard, (not full but not pointy). The middle is parallel outlined and the tail comes to a small squash tail.
Dimensions:
14' x 27 1/2" x 6 1/4" thick.
The Pad:
We have a light weight 2mm EVA pad. The entire cockpit is covered. The ‘crocodile skin’ has a slight texture. It is grippy enough for full traction but not too rough as to where you can not easily walk back and forward. The Steering:
Options, options options. All X-14s come with A.S.S. Dual Steering plumbed into the board and a regular fixed fin box. This allows for rudder/no rudder rule in races. Out of the factory, the steering is only rigged on one side (your choice), but can be easily switched to the other side with minimal tools required. The rudder can easily be removed with a single allen key and the basic system alignment is done with that allen screw. Fine tuning is done from the front tiller with two thumb screws. The foot pedal has a 4" telescopic extension, enabling you to fine-tune the sweet spot position on your board.
The Construction:
Lightweight is the key. 3/4 lb. density styrofoam, carbon rail stiffeners, and a cockpit section with a wood veneer composite.
The Weight:
Approx. 25 lbs. complete with fin and pad.
The Accessories:
The X-14 comes standard with a handle, two leash cup inserts with spectra line loops for carrying the board with the paddle. It has a rear leash plug as well. In addition, the front cockpit houses 2 inserts to screw in a water bottle cage, as well as 6 small inserts with crisscross bungie for holding down small cargo. The board has 2 self-breathing Gore-Tex® vents. |