Anyone have any experience using this set-up? I’m wondering how functional it would be in California conditions. I understand some of the boards in the downwind race in Maui this summer had this set-up. I saw a pic of the Timpone boards (looked to be 16’ or more) Dave & Laird paddled the islands on and they did not look like they had a tiller set-up. This is for a 14’ being made for mostly 5 to 10 mile paddles. In the paddleboard world most boards don’t get a tiller until they get to be 16’ and up, and some U/Ls (like the Waterman) don’t have a tiller set-up at all. Your theory and pics are welcome.
Im fairly new to designing paddleboards, but do have alot of experience on Unlimiteds. The tiller is in place for adjustments because you maintain an even forward stroke with both arms over distance. If youre taking swell from the side thats pushing you offcourse, you just adjust for a straighter line. It can also turn you at buoys alot easier than arm sweeps…
But with a stand up, you have more control over your course due to the fact that the tiller is in your hand. If you get pushed offcourse, just step on the rail a little and keep paddling. Or 2 straight strokes and on pull/push stroke at/away from the nose.
I would say put 2 fins inline over a tiller for straighter paddling. Im about to start 2 touring boards. One, a 14’ board with 2 catamaran hulls, daggerboards and rear fins about 28" wide and a 14’6 hulled bottom with a diamond tail. JUst to try to figure out what works better. If its just for racing/touring/fishing, why does it have to be a surfboard style???
Thanks for that Alan ! Looking forward to seeing your new creations at the usual spot. I’m thinking 16’ and up may want a tiller, but I don’t know if I have the motor to paddle anything that big. Think I’ll stay tillerless on the new fourteen.