Is there a general rule of thumb for pole length on aftermarket Hulls? I'm new to the aftermarket hull scene and just put a new RRP pole on my gen 2 BOB. I have no idea if the length is right or where to start. I just set it up to the length that the PO had a RN pole cut to, but 5ish inches longer to make up for OVP steering. Pivot to pivot on the new pole is measuring 36.75". Ski is always riden on flat water and may see surf 1 or 2 times a year if i'm lucky. If any of you guys have a general recommendation that would be a huge help!
Pole length?
- Thread starter 550kid171
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Most people will say the shorter the better. There many factors that come into play but in flat water riding, on most AM hulls you want to get your weight as far forward as possible. Also, in general, the taller you are the shorter your pole should be. I think stock length is around 40-41 inches. I have an xmetal pole that is -5 from stock also running a shorter turn plate and straight bars so probably closer to -7-8. I'm 6'4" and wish mine was maybe a few more inches shorter. My son is 5'8" and he even would like it a little shorter. It does come down to personal preference. Take your ski out and ride it for a while. If it feels like it's riding nose high all the time, then shorten the pole a few inches and repeat. I'd ride if for at least a tank of gas or the day before shortening. In my experience there is a point were if you go too short, it may make doing some trick easier but it's hell on the back from being in a bent over position all the time.
There's lost of discussions on this site about pole length if you search for them.
Here's a good one that's talking about xmetal poles but it has a few posts listing actual lengths in comparison.
http://www.x-h2o.com/index.php?threads/chan-pole-length.158488/
There's lost of discussions on this site about pole length if you search for them.
Here's a good one that's talking about xmetal poles but it has a few posts listing actual lengths in comparison.
http://www.x-h2o.com/index.php?threads/chan-pole-length.158488/
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For flatwater and short hulls, you typically want shorter poles. I don’t know exactly how short on a BOB. I would try to find pictures/video of other good riders on BOB hulls to get an estimate.
Too short sucks to ride (unless you are just doing flatwater freestyle) and too long will feel like you can’t get into an aggressive position on the ski. It’s all personal preference though.
Too short sucks to ride (unless you are just doing flatwater freestyle) and too long will feel like you can’t get into an aggressive position on the ski. It’s all personal preference though.
