How to Overcome the 'Bucking Bronco'

Riding the Gen2 Foil Drive can be an exhilarating experience, but for beginners, it's not uncommon to encounter the challenge known as the 'Bucking Bronco.' This can occur when too much throttle is applied, leading to a series of uncontrolled surges and a struggle to maintain stability on the water. In this blog post, we'll delve into the art of avoiding the 'Bucking Bronco' and share tips on how to achieve a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Understanding What's Happening

The 'Bucking Bronco' is a situation where excessive throttle disrupts the synchronisation between the board, the wing, the rider, and the propeller. This misalignment causes the propeller to intermittently lift out of the water, resulting in rapid acceleration followed by sudden deceleration. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in throttle control and finding the right balance to maintain stability.

Throttle Control Tips

1. Gradual Throttle Application

When learning to ride the Gen2 Foil Drive, it's common to make the mistake of holding too much throttle. This can lead to an unstable ride, making it difficult to manage the surges caused by the propeller lifting in and out of the water. Begin by using around 60% throttle to establish a stable ride between the board, wing, and propeller.

2. Back Off Once Airborne

Once you're up and riding, resist the urge to keep the throttle pinned. Back off the throttle slightly to prevent the propeller from excessively spinning out of the water. This adjustment will help you maintain a smoother and more controlled ride, reducing the chances of encountering the 'Bucking Bronco.'

3. Listen for Warning Signs

If you hear a thrashing noise or experience a sudden surge in thrust, it's a clear indication that you have too much throttle. This not only wastes power, but also makes the ride challenging to manage. 

Let's Recap

Mastering the Gen2 Foil Drive requires a keen understanding of throttle control and the ability to find the right balance between power and stability. By avoiding the pitfalls of the 'Bucking Bronco', you can elevate your foiling experience to new heights. So, go out there, practice these tips, and enjoy the thrill of flying effortlessly over the water with your Gen2 Foil Drive.

If you want to learn more about Foil Drive, visit our help centre.

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