I am looking at buying a new board for the coming season in CA. The board that has peaked my interest is the Shinn Monk Lover 137x44. I weigh 110Kg. Solid Intermediate kiter join both weight and ability :). Wondering if there are any other heavier guys who have used this board and can provide an insight into how it performs. I have never ridden a board below a 143x45 so I am clueless as to weather I will get the most out of a board this size for my weight? It would be my primary board so looking at using it in that 16 - 25knot range.

Hey BT, I am also a heavy weight (115kg) and recently added the Monk 137x44 to the quiver. Only ridden it a few times so far, but pretty pleased with it overall. It has some concave, so smooths out the chop nicely, and some rocker so it can handle waves and higher wind. I find it works fine in lighter wind, but it's not a light wind board so doesn't have the bottom end of my bigger, flatter boards. I also find it carves nicely and jumps pretty well. A good all-round performer. The board has nice thick pads and straps so it's a really comfortable ride.

If you have King Gee than there is no point in getting 44 Monk. Get 42. It will be way more fun when the wind picks up. I am 105 and much prefer 42 when the wind is solid.

Great minds think alike BT .. I bought the King Gee (150 x 50) for LW and loved it so much I also wanted to stay with a Shinn .. Just bought a Monk (133 x 41 -im 80kg) which is alot shorter than i'm used to but I fall right in the middle of the weight range .. I also figured with the KG for LW kiting I'd be better off with a board size that could handle the stronger winds here in WA. It's arrived but I am away for work for next few weeks :(

Cant wait to try it out and see how this 2 board twin tip quiver works for me over the season.

BigZ said...
If you have King Gee than there is no point in getting 44 Monk. Get 42. It will be way more fun when the wind picks up. I am 105 and much prefer 42 when the wind is solid.

I have a different opinion. I have had the 42 wide for 3 years now and at around 90kg I am never looking for a smaller board. They edge so well and the outline saves your legs from the burn of other brands of similar width.
I also agree with not the best bottom end which is why I think you should go with the 44.
They are a sweet board. I just didn't like the pads, so changed them to naish apex. The new ones might be better.