Pole math - how do I know what I need?

[ATS_Aaron]

So what is the pole math? How do I know if I want or need a shortened pole? Is it height? or weight? Probably both, but do light people want short poles or do they want long poles?

I assume racers usually want stock/long poles as I see them hanging their asses off the back of the ski, but what about freestyle? Is there a shortened pole advantage?

I've only ridden in surf twice and I suck. Typically I land nearly vertical and am unable to ride it out. Do I need a shortened pole to get my nose down to get a better landing?

Thanks,

Aaron

 

[Mike W]

It's all personal preference but I would start out with a -3" pole and a -1" turnplate. If its too much you can go with a standard length turnplate. If its not enough then you can just cut some more off the pole. You will just have to use trial and error to figure out what you like.

 

[Speedfreak]

I used the bandwagon method of pole math. I asked "how long is your pole" and got a number of responses mostly by surf riders but I went with the majority a -4 inch pole and a -3 inch steering. I am about 5'7" and weigh about 150. I didn't get to ride too much with that setup yet but I like it so far. If I do anything I might move the steering to a -1 inch to see how that feels this summer. I have steering setups from stock to -4 inches. It is a lot easier to swap turnplates than poles.

 

[gunrgood]

Aaron i have a -2.5" steering setup if your interested.

 

[brett]

i went the same route, -3.5 pole, -1 turnplate, bars. ive been riding that setup in the surf for about 9 months and thought i loved it. but then, after spending some time on wydopens and EJs skis, i saw the light. for surf stance surf riding, IMHO a lowered bracket, -2 pole and -1 plate is the golden setup
thats what will be on my ski when im done with this build

 

[Crab]

-2 pole and short Blowsion plate seems to be a good starting place, you can always go shorter with the WDK or Xmetal turn plate.