Seeking Binding/Board advice

[Shorty]

G'day,

I've had a pair of Atomic "Shorty" 63cm boards since, well at least 1993-94. I've busted the plastic binding which is an 8 screw job spaning about 25cm. So I'm looking for suggestions for a solution. The 4x4 binding looks to me like it would rip off as the skis don't have the inserts in them. Can I get the inserts and fit them?

Also looking to get another set of modern skiboards and seeking advice about what's good for a 6'1 agressive skier who's had a bit of time on the Shorty's (which by the way have zero side cut and are stiff as, and is looking for something that will handle off piste (the Shortys don't do so well, they tend to nose tuck leading to a spectacular cartwheels).

Note that most of the 2004/05 stock is sold out, but liked the look of the earlier Line Mike Nick Pro stuff, any other suggestion?

P.

[Greco]

shorty,

you've hit on one of the major reason we don't sell 8 hole bindings or boards...if they break you have no options in terms of repair or replacement (there are other downsides but this one applies here). Your only option is to have a ski/snowboard shop install 4 metal inserts so you can attach standard 4x4 bindings. they install the inserts through the bottom of the board and then repair the holes.

As for new boards you're right about almost everything being sold out. Fortunately we have those
Mike Nick's (http://www.skiboardsonline.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=SBOL&Product_Code=line_mnpro98&Category_Code=line_skiboards) you mentioned and they are possibly the best 98-99cm boards made, at any time in the history of skiboarding. They are very high quality and perform well all over the mountain, including off piste.

Let me know if you have anymore questions.

Greco
Rider / Owner - Skiboardsonline.com

[Shorty]

Greco,

Thanks for the info. Can you supply the inserts? I've tried a few shops here in Oz and they hardly know what a skiboard is let alone stocking bindings for them.

Otherwise I was thinking of maybe getting the Phoikka bindings as they have more holes so I can possibly get a grip on the Shorty's with more screws.

Ski season starts here in a few months so I'd better grab a pair of the Mike Nick Pro's, with Phoikka's as well, as if I wait for 2005/06 stock the season will be over. Probably get my order together in the next few days.

Also, what's the general feeling about release bindings? With the shorty's being 63cm it's never been an issue, but at 98-99cm I'm wondering if I should think about that. Not much into the terrain park these days (hey my bodys too old for that kind of punishment) so I'm thinking probably not necessary.

Thanks again

P.

[Greco]

p.

yeah i wouldn't expect you would be able to find 4 hole bindings at any local stores. you're going to have to just tell them you want 4 inserts installed in the center of the board 40mm apart, square. it might be best to go to a snowboard shop since snowboards use the same inserts and pattern. i'm sorry we don't have any inserts here. you could also send the boards to skiboards.com. i think they have a local shop near them that does that work. i think they charge $35 and you pay shipping both ways. or you could just buy a pair of 75cm SnowJam's (http://www.skiboardsonline.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=SBOL&Product_Code=snjm04_75&Category_Code=snowjam) for $159 and have a great pair of boards with all metal 4 hole bindings for just a bit more than upgrading your current boards with inserts.

-G

[PureVenom]

If you can shorty I would go with the line pro bindings(solid all metal bindings) or even bombers on those Mike Nick pro's. The phiokkas are good too but the toe piece is plastic vs. all metal on the pro's or the bombers. I like my line pro's over my bombers...they have more fine adjustment and they are VERY solid.

[Shorty]

Thanks, you guys rock. My other half has decided that she wants new feet too and is gonna get the Snow Jams. Now we just need the weather gods to organise a good snow season here in Oz this year. Cheers

P.

[valmorel]

Shorty, I have a few bits and pieces for 8 hole plastic bindings left over from fitting the four hole stuff for people. Post a picture of the part you need, and if I have it its yours...no charge. Same for anyone else who may need a part.

[Shorty]

Thanks for the offer of the old binding parts. I have to say the advice/help given on this forum has been just amazing.

I've decided to convert them to a 4x4 binding. Once the bits arrive I'll get inserts put into the Shortys. Or more likely I'll make up a "riser" that attaches to the original 8 holes on the Shortys and then has 4x4 inserts in it.

[valmorel]

Ok, cool........................