Mick cruising
DOES IT WORK? SMORGASBOARDER TRIED AND TESTED
WORDS: GUS BROWN
POWER BOARDS Mick says:
Powerboards are the only surfboards on the market that utilise a propeller-based propulsion system, which can incidentally be adapted to a range of other water based craft. They have an electric motor that runs off a lithium battery that can be recharged at home (about 35 minutes) or off a car cigarette lighter. The boards are designed to travel approximately 7-9km an hour (quicker than paddling, but not a jetski run) depending on the size and set-up. Full charge provides about 35 minutes of continuous runtime, which in the surf equates to a good 2+ hour session, depending on how much you rely on the motor.
“THAT’S AN ABSOLUTE CRACKER... AND I DON’T USUALLY RIDE LONGBOARDS. IT WAS REALLY EASY TO GET OUT AND TO RIDE” Chris show’s Mick (left) and Gus (Right) how to operate the board
THE POWER
THE BUILD 6’4 - 11’6 SUP. They’re constructed with a double-stringer foam core, two sheets of 6oz glass with epoxy for added strength and durability. The deck has two sealed compartments, for battery, electrics and motor. Underneath, there’s a standard thruster set-up, however the primary fin has a jet-shaped cylindrical tube which safely encases the custom made brass propeller.
MORE INFO Check out the range and videos of the boards in action at the website www.powerboards1.com
The Powerboard is the invention of Chris Preston. This ex-tiler had a significant rotator cuff injury and decided this wasn’t going to keep him out of the surf. Shoulder issues are a common problem for long-time surfers so Chris wanted to ensure all those with a passion for surfing had the opportunity to stay in the ocean. He started working on his designs approximately seven years ago. Since then, much work - as well as significant investment - has gone into getting the boards to a standard where they are ready for market. Powerboards are now in production with the factory based on the Sunshine Coast. SEP/OCT 2013 | SMORGASBOARDER
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