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Want to start.. what to buy.

2016/7/22 14:39:01


Question
I live near the Gorge and want to learn to windsurf. 5'9" 160 pounds.  I plan to take some lessons but have just come across a couple of deals on Craigslist that I would like to get your opinion on.

The first is a Mistral Malibu Concept 3 Sailboard. $450.00. 11 feet long 27.9 inches wide.Volume-210L that comes with a North Sail Sting 6.0 sail, Boom, and Mast.

The second offer is for $375:
2 windsurf boards:
* Richard Greene G.E.M. (Greene Epoxy Maui) board (9' 2"/ 280cm); mid-90's; fin included -- this is a great board!
* Board #2; fin included; similar dimensions to the first board but weightier and heavily used condition... this is a beater board
- 2 booms (don't have dimensions... see pics for scale)
- 6 sails made by WindWing Designs (from the mid-90s) -- Race 5.2; Race 4.7; MP 4.4; MP 3.9; MP 3.5; MP 3.1
- 6 sail carrying cases
- 6 constant curve masts -- 430/25 - 64/76 (x2); 400/25 - 62/77 (x4)
- 3 carbon fiber masts
- 1 base
- Dakine harness & spreader bar
- Mast extension
- Helmet
- 2 pair of Feetbelts (old-school but good condition!)
- Rig screwdriver, gear bag, etc

And the third for $275:
Mast: 370cm "LipStick" by Sailworks, 55% Carbon Wave Mast with an extension. Great quality mast in great condition (it's $329 new)

Sail Quiver:
3.0 by Hot Sails Maui
3.5 by Rushwind
4.0 by Rushwind
4.5 by Northwave
They are outdated, more in graphics (mid-90s) than function, but they are in perfect condition and all have sail bags.

Board: Ultra Gecko Fanatic with fin. Liters are not written on the board; it's probably about 120.
Also includes: 2 bases, haul, cover, board bag & a harness

I know a lot has to do with the condition the equipment is in but everything but assuming it is in good shape and everything being equal what is your opinion on these deals for someone wanting to get into the sport. Again yes I plan to take lessons, thanks so much for your help!!  Dave

Answer
My best advice is to not rush into a "good deal".  Take your lessons first.  There will always be other deals (especially in the gorge) if these don't last. Decide what you feel comfortable on based on what you sail during your lessons.  Talk with the instructor as he will be the best guide to advise you what would be best to buy as your first board.  Honestly, I am not crazy about any of the deals you spotted on Craigslist.  The 3rd one seems like the best but I could not guide you until you know more of what you want from the sport and actually get on a board. Ultimately I would be looking for a board no more than 5 or 6 years old, same for the sail.  Good Luck!
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