JP X-Cite Ride 110 (FWS) (above):

The X-Cite Ride series has been in the JP line-up for many years now, marketed as the plug-&-play option for those wanting minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. The 110 is the second smallest model in a six-board range spanning 100-160L, with each design available in three constructions – the budget Epoxy Sandwich (ES), this Full Wood Sandwich (FWS), and the Pro Edition.

The design has been refined this year to become both shorter and narrower, making the rails more parallel and fuller in the mid-section to increase directional stability and buoyancy. There’s a bit more curvature in the middle of the rockerline for more progressive acceleration, and a general thinning of the board’s thickness for improved control when things start getting fruity. The fittings are up to the usual standard, and there’s a mass of strap options to suit all abilities.

Once again, the X-Cite Ride does exactly what it says on the tin, being easy and forgiving to use, yet providing a fulfilling and flattering ride. The 110 is an excellent freeride platform, providing plenty of room for growth for those looking to progress into high end blasting, yet still offering the ease to be applicable for the intermediate. Being a little narrower it has slightly decreased stability at rest, but with its flat deck it’s still pretty good in this department, and as power is applied the 110 shows great willingness to release easily, gaining speed smoothly and comfortably. This is a real plus for the intermediate as the measured response is there, providing time for the rider to get into the right stance and then push in the power and see the board respond.

Due to the flatter deck your stance is much more comfortable when using one of the outboard back strap options, rather than the central back strap. The board is very much freeride rather than crossover – in confused chop and overpowered winds, it displays a great deal of control, remaining low to the water without the shoulders tripping. Experienced sailors should get their big sails out and explore its top end abilities, especially since it feels quite small and compact for its quoted size.

On flat water the board gybes pretty well, initiating the turn with an instinctive feel. However, in more testing water states you need to take control, forcing those boxier mid-rails in to keep the speed through the carve, which intermediates will find technically demanding.

+Early planing

+Excellent freeride performance across wide wind range, without demanding much rider input.

-Carving isn’t as progressive and silky as others here.

The 110 defines the essence of freeride, being super-easy to release and providing blasting fun across a massive wind range.