looking to buy CF Raptor and Need advice size and version

[Gil 00]

Hi all

I'm looking to buy a raptor my thought are to get the Regular version due the fact i have a bit knee problems and I'm not an aggressive raider ( im jumping and doing tricks but im not on the extrem side that i would prefer a board that will give my 2-3 extra meters , that i think worth the extra money for the ltd version ( or the extreme version ) ,

is there a big different in riding with the different versions ? ( if its only batter for higher jumps i would definitely prefer the Regular version )

I'm 175lbs and my height is 6'0
what size will be good for me ?

if i get the regular version -135 x 41 / 137 x 41 / 137 x 43 / 140 x 42 ?
or the ltd 136 x 41 / 140 x 42 ( i think the 132 will be to small )

i might not get the 2021 version ( 2020-2019) if there is any difference

TNX !

[zlatko23]

Hi @Gil 00,
I ride the LTD version and I am quite happy with it. I haven't tried the regular Raptor, but I do not think there is great difference with it. If you have opportunity try them both before choosing. I chose the LTD due to its lighter weight, as I am a light guy myself and want a lighter, nimbler, direct board. I have tried the EliteI though - it felt amazing, feather light and smooth, but I can not justify the price of it in my head That said - LTD doesn't feel punishing to my knees(torn left ACL) even in the choppiest conditions I encounter.
I am 5.8", 160lbs and I ride 136x41. I used to have 140x42(bought second hand). I can not say there is such a big difference in sizing, both feel great in different way and I would have hard time choosing one over the other. It's a matter of preference. If you usually ride nicely powered - get the smaller size(136x41), if you prefer to be in the lower end of the power spectrum - go for the bigger one(140x42). For the Raptor its hard to tell, but I guess all of 137x41/137x43 /140x42 will fit your weight. If I have to I will exclude the 137x43cm as it seems little too wide for you. But may be someone with experience with CF Raptor will help you further on the sizing.

[Cheoz0r86]

I'm 80 kilos and I ride the standard 2020 CF raptor but also had the chance to try for several sessions the raptor extreme courtesy of www.kitesurfwarehouse.com, the big difference is the stiffness of the extreme version with this I'm not trying to say the standard raptor is soft at all. The CF raptor (standard) is kite sporty, after buying my quiver of CF hypers (coming from 2017 north rebels) I was struggling a bit to hold down power (hypers have loads of grunt and power) using my first board CF alr 2018. The raptor allow me to hold down more power as it is grippy and also to ride faster without losing control that translate into a more explosive pop.

I currently ride the 137x41 I'm on the short side only 163cm height, something to mention is that the new Hexa II are amazing compare to the Hexa I. Also you can get the 2020 model at a vey good price plus you get the 3 years warranty.

[zlatko23]

I forget to mention, that the only difference between 2020 and 2021 models is the graphics, so one can safely go for the cheaper option.

[leeuwen]

I have a raptor neon LTD and compared to my Lieuwe Shotgun it’s a very stiff board and a LOT less comfy in eg chop.
If you want to save your knees get a shotgun or I think the shinn monk also has a good reputation.

[Gil 00]

most of my surfing is in chop ++ water i think ill go for the regular version duo the weight
tnx!

[Wolkster]

I have a Raptor Ltd 2017? original black carbon weave one with double concave bottom in 136cm
Also bought a Raptor Ltd 2020 in neon with new bottom design shape in 132cm
I’m 6.0’ 170 so very similar size to you, I like both boards got the smaller one to hold edge better when really powered.
Ended up riding the 132cm all the time didn’t touch the 136cm for 3 years until recently, recovering from rib injury and wanting to ride a smaller kite to be less powered and figured longer 136 board would be a good match. Had a lot of fun on that setup as well and I think the older bottom design is more supple in the chop and softer on the landings.
The newer 132 is a flatter shape with really flexy tips so it does feel stiffer and faster, rougher in the chop if riding it flat and straight legged, if you are edging and being more aggressive it’s a supple ride and has ton of pop off the water.
The older 136 has the classic double concave that is known to be good in the chop and with more rocker has lower top speed more forgiving if you are riding kind of lazy with straighter legs.

In the end for your size either length would work, 136 probably more universal better in lulls and I think softer landings.

[Faxie]

140x42 will be too big probably, unless you want to ride in the lowend often. I had a Bulldozer 140x42 and went to a Raptor Extreme 135x41, I'm a bit heavier than you. Much better for edging before a jump. Extreme is quite stiff though.

[mass898]

I have a raptor neon LTD and compared to my Lieuwe Shotgun it’s a very stiff board and a LOT less comfy in eg chop.
If you want to save your knees get a shotgun or I think the shinn monk also has a good reputation.

i had the raptor 137x43 really good for chop, edge and going upwind thanks to the extra width.

got the lieuwe now and indeed, its more gentle on the knees but needs more power.

[GetHighOrDieTrying]

own a raptor extreme 138x42. rode various other boards and brands before but the CF this just great. it's very light and although it's carbon I don't find it annoyingly stiff at all. it eats smoothly through chop and provides a great edge as it sits nicely in the water. only thing I don't like on CF boards are the bindings. I replaced mine with cabrinha H1. they are simple, affordable and work really great.

regarding size i'm 175lbs and 6'2 and the 138 fits perfectly. i rode a 139 jaime before and that one felt so big and struggled to hold the edge as it's more surfy compared to the CF but with the raptor I feel in full control with that size. before trying the board i couldn't believe what a difference the board construction and shape etc makes with basically the same size. in your case i think anything between 137 and 140 will work well and you can skew toward your personal preferences and kiting conditions. i don't see any relevant changes for last years model so if you can find a cheaper one from last years series you will not regret it. enjoy!