Hi Paul,
Ironically the waves were miniature when I took the Mini out for the first time. It's noticeably faster when kicking due to reduced form drag. Paddling is much easier on the narrower platform with less nose out front. Catching and riding 1/2 foot waves is not a problem. Clearly, this is a completely viable model to add to the lineup. Big south swells are predicted in the next few days. If the winds are good, I'll be able to test the Mini in the type of conditions it's meant for.
Cheers Mate,
Max----------------------------------------------------------------
It worked fine in gutless 1' waves, well...
Anyway the Mini feels really good, is easy to get around on, and will be a hoot in shorebreaks and double-ups and such. 
Plus it's so light and user friendly (except for exposing the family jewels to jet-wash 
). Gotta make it a new model! 
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Hi Paul,
Well, the Mini mat is just that, a miniature surfmat. Great fun in normal 2-4 footers this morning, with the single drawback, slightly less glide, being offset by more velocity in steep sections due to reduced drag. Although the surf was pretty tame the Mini feels like it will have superior grip in suckouts. The most functional aspect is being able to make the forward rail slip down the face while still body dragging for control. And, with thinking ahead, there's no need to do the inchworm to get on plane.
Easy to paddle and duckdive. Way better when caught inside. Less volume is very functional. The planshape / pontoon configuration seems perfect for it's intended purpose... You've created a another super fun toy that will make lots of folks really happy! (The only downside is knowing that we could have done this years ago .)
.) Stoked,Max
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I'm calling it the Mini. It's really fun and easy to handle. Unfortunately today is gale force onshore winds and we're moving cows anyway. For me the testing is done and the design needs no further development. All I can say is if you think you might like a Mini, get one, it's a hoot!
Max
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So...things are looking pretty good on this potential new model. I have one myself, but haven't ridden it. I should get it going this next week some time.
I'm going to make three more Mini Mats and put them up for sale to get some more feedback. Continental US mat riders only, to simply things. Write me at fourth gear flyer at yahoo dot com and let me know if you're interested. Cost, $135, same as a Classic.
I'm going to make three more Mini Mats and put them up for sale to get some more feedback. Continental US mat riders only, to simply things. Write me at fourth gear flyer at yahoo dot com and let me know if you're interested. Cost, $135, same as a Classic.
PG
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UPDATE: All three of the Mini Mats have been sold. Feedback will be posted as soon as it comes in.
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UPDATE: All three of the Mini Mats have been sold. Feedback will be posted as soon as it comes in.