Why I Chose the Foil Drive Gen 2 Assist Max for Prone Foiling
Ryan and Aaron from MACkiteboarding discuss Ryan’s personal setup for the Foil Drive Gen 2 Assist Max, detailing his choices and the rationale behind them. Ryan has opted for the Assist Max model due to its extended battery life and enhanced power, which suits his preference for prone foiling without the need for paddling in Lake Michigan. He values the ability to quickly get up on a wave and ride the swell, similar to wing foiling but using the motorized assist instead of a wing. To maximize his time on the water, he uses two batteries—the Max Power and the Max Sport—allowing him to balance weight savings with extended ride time depending on the session.
A key component of Ryan’s setup is the Project Cedrus integrated mast, which offers compatibility with various foil brands through an adapter system. This feature is particularly useful at the shop, where different foils are tested frequently. The integrated mast also simplifies setup by allowing a direct bolt connection to the foil drive unit, reducing the risk of losing parts and making board mounting more straightforward. Ryan emphasizes how this system enables quick changes between foils, allowing for back-to-back testing without removing the entire unit.
In addition to the mast, Ryan has chosen an 8-inch motor pod length, which he finds ideal for the choppy conditions of Lake Michigan. This length provides enough clearance to dip the foil deeper when necessary while still keeping the motor submerged in rougher waters. He notes that a longer mast might be beneficial for beginners, particularly as more staff members at the shop get into Foil Drive. Ryan also prefers a three-blade propeller, which he feels offers smoother power delivery and additional thrust.
When it comes to battery selection, Ryan typically rides with the Max Power battery for longer sessions but appreciates the weight savings of the Max Sport when conditions allow. He mentions that while the performance difference is noticeable, those undecided between the two should lean toward the Max Power for extended sessions. In his use case, the larger battery ensures he has enough power for both testing foils and making upwind returns after downwind runs.
Looking ahead, Ryan plans to continue using this setup in the upcoming season and hopes more riders at the shop will join him. He anticipates some tweaks, such as possibly moving to a 10-inch mast for less experienced riders. His overall approach emphasizes ease of use, modularity, and the ability to adapt quickly to different foil setups.
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