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View Full Version : First time on KTPs: A straight convert from Snow blades



rob
01-23-2011, 08:24 PM
So today was my first day out on the mountain with my 2011 KTPs doing blue and black hard pack groomers. Pretty much after my first two runs I quickly became adapted to the feel of them, which I was surprised by because I thought it would take quite a bit of time getting used to such a wider board. I will say however that they do require quite a bit more energy to drive, but riding them aggressively was very rewarding as they plowed and carved through all types of conditions (powder spots/hardpack/ice/snowboard wakes) seamlessly.

Although I didn't hit any park today, I did hit various small jumps and drop offs and the additional surface area and tail length helped better stabilize me and give me increased confidence than being on my snowblades which always made for a rougher landing.

The only minor set back I found with these boards is that they didn't skate on flat land as well as I though they would have but maybe I am doing something wrong or I'm not fully used to them yet? Would this be improved if I waxed/polished them again or is it something I just need to adapt to?

Also I will follow up further once I do hit the terrain park with them.

zapmeister64
01-23-2011, 08:52 PM
Did you try to skate with them with the factory wax? I stuck hardcore with the factory wax on those, but glad to hear you like them!

I converted from snowblades to KTPs as well and it's definitely a great experience riding those boards.

rob
01-23-2011, 09:11 PM
Yes zap I just got them this past week.. What can I do to improve it?

zapmeister64
01-23-2011, 09:26 PM
I would just redo the hot wax by taking it into a ski shop (there are free coupons out there depending on where you live) or you can do it yourself.

In terms of technique in skating, you have to just get used to it. It took me about 2 days to get really good at it. I guess the best recommendation I can make for skating with KTPs is take longer strides than with snowblades.

CrazyBoy-1
01-26-2011, 12:01 AM
Skating with the wider boards can take some getting used to. My first day on Condors, I struggled with skating in the lift line. Keep in mind that a bit more angle is required to get the wider boards on edge, and this applies to skating as well as carving.