Flite Company understands that versatility doesn't always meet the needs of professionals and offers extensive customization options, including mast selection. In this article, we will take a detailed look at all the mast options for hydrofoils from Flite, also known as Fliteboard.
How do Flite masts differ from each other?
Firstly, the masts differ in length, which affects the board's tilt angle and maneuverability. Longer masts allow for sharper maneuvers but are more challenging to master. Secondly, the masts differ in material. Masts with lengths of 60, 75, and 80 cm are made of aluminum, while the 82 cm masts are made of a lighter but equally strong material, carbon. Thirdly, the attachment points of drive systems and wings vary: not every wing in Flite's range fits every mast due to significant differences in mounts.
Now, let's examine each mast individually, exploring their purposes and main parameters, such as length, weight, and available colors.
What unites Flite masts?
All masts from FLITE have a solid construction without fasteners, whether they are made of aviation aluminum or high-modulus prepreg carbon. Each mast is a single piece. These masts are characterized by high quality and the use of advanced materials, making them incredibly strong, reliable, lightweight, and highly efficient.
60 cm FLITE Mast
The 60 cm mast is an optimal choice for beginners. It is specially designed for the Flitescooter, the most stable and buoyant board in the lineup, and offers the sensation of flying without rising too high above the water. This mast is only available for the Flitescooter and is not offered by Flite for other models, although it can theoretically be installed on other models.
The 75 cm mast is the most popular length, ideal for versatile use, from sharp maneuvers to smooth cruising. It allows smooth gliding over water with minimal risk of the propeller surfacing. The mast is made of aviation aluminum in a solid construction without fasteners, enhancing its hydrodynamics and stability thanks to patented technology.
The 80 cm mast (often referred to as "Performance" in Flite catalogs) is the most accessible choice for all-around performance. Its increased length allows sharper and steeper turns, providing more freedom of tilt before the board touches the water. The 80 cm mast is perfect for tackling large waves on ULTRA and L models. Like the 75 cm mast, it is made of aviation aluminum and is a single piece without any fasteners, significantly improving its hydrodynamic properties and stability.
The 82 cm mast is a masterpiece created in collaboration with Marc Newson, one of the leading industrial designers. It is made of high-quality Japanese high-modulus prepreg carbon fiber, cured in a modern autoclave. This technology allows maximum performance while maintaining the durability and stiffness of the structure. The mast features a 62 mm fuselage and a full-size electric motor. Due to its unique design and mounts, drive systems from 60, 75, and 80 cm masts are incompatible with this mast.
The 82 cm wave mast is the ideal solution for those who want to ride their FLITE hydrofoil not only with electric thrust but also using the power of the waves. This mast has a fuselage width of just 46 mm and a 40 mm diameter motor, and it comes with a folding propeller that retracts automatically when the throttle is released. These features significantly reduce water resistance and improve the board's performance when riding waves. Like the standard 82 cm mast, it is made of high-modulus prepreg carbon fiber, cured in a modern autoclave, ensuring stiffness and durability.
Specifications of the MN Carbon Wave 82 cm:
Weight: 5 kg
Length: 82 cm
Material: Carbon
Colors: Black carbon body only
Conclusion
In conclusion, FLITE offers an unprecedented variety of masts, allowing you to create the perfect hydrofoil for your riding style and conditions. If you're a beginner and unsure which mast to choose, we recommend considering the 75 cm mast. It is a standard and highly versatile solution that forgives more mistakes and suits a wide range of riding conditions.
If you're a professional or have extensive hydrofoiling experience, we don't find it appropriate to recommend a specific mast as it greatly depends on your style and preferences. If you already have a board and want to purchase an additional mast or replace an old one, contact us, and we will help arrange its delivery.