Transitioning from Motor to Free-Foil | Foil Drive Masterclass Series

Transitioning from motoring to gliding with Foil Drive on your foil board can be tricky, but with the right approach, it can be smooth and effortless. Here are some essential tips to help you perfect this transition and enhance your overall riding experience.

Less is More

One common mistake riders make is trying to do too much too fast. They often force the board up, which is unnecessary. Instead, you should focus on doing less. Build up your speed and lead in to a small pop-up. That's all it takes! Avoid an aggressive kick or pushing the board hard. With enough velocity and lift, simply get on one of the small bumps in the water, pop up then pop down.

Don't Force It

When you attempt a big kick or an aggressive manoeuvre, you risk unsettling the wing, the board, and yourself. This can lead to instability and a less enjoyable ride. It's all about maintaining control through subtle movements rather than forceful actions.

Pre-Spooling Your Propeller

When you’re in powered flight and your motor is out of the water, you have two main options: pre-engage the propeller out of the water and then drop it in, or start it in the water. Avoid starting the propeller when it's halfway in and halfway out of the water, as this can cause vibration issues. Here's how to do it right:

• Pre-spooling: As you're gliding, pre-spool your propeller and then drop the motor back in. This technique helps you transition back into forward momentum smoothly, maintaining your speed.
• Starting in the water: This approach tends to slow you down more as you hit the water hard and need to build up speed again. While it’s a viable option, it requires more effort to regain momentum.

Handling Stalls

If you find yourself slowing down to the point of stalling, it’s better to give up gracefully than to try overpowering the stall. Avoid slamming the throttle in an attempt to force your way out, as this can pinch the board and make recovery more difficult. It can also be dangerous, potentially causing you to fall onto the board. Instead, simply jump off and restart. This approach is safer and more effective.

Conclusion

Mastering the transition from motoring to gliding is all about subtlety and control. By doing less, pre-spooling your propeller, and knowing when to give up gracefully, you can ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable Foildriving experience. Happy riding!

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

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