Choosing between 09 Watson, 10 Watson Classic, 09 PS3

[ApacheBL]

Reposting this in the correct forum...

Sorry to be yet another "I need help choosing a board..." thread, but, well, I need help choosing a board.

Basic info: Started riding in July of last year, I've been out about 20 times since then. I'm 6'1", 200#. Been riding a Ronix Frontier 137 w LF bindings. It is my friend's board, and I want my own. I'm still basic. Can almost W2W, some surface spins, getting comfortable riding switch.

I want a board that is going to let me grow, and not limit me, so I have chosen the boards below. I also like a fast but STABLE feel. I don't like a twitchy feeling or the outta control feeling some like in a board.

So, I'm looking at a 09 PS3 (cuz I hate the '10 graphics) w/ Transit binding for $315 (it is a blem board), a 09 Watson w/ Watson OT bindings for $475, or a '10 Watson Classic w/ Vantage binding for $450.

I understand that the '10 Classic is the same design as the '09, so my question here is, are the Watson OT bindings better than the Vantage on the Classic?

Also, since the PS3 setup is almost $150 less than either Watson setup, and I hear that the PS3 is a little better for a rider at my level (it is more
"stable" and less twitchy, is that right?) I was really thinking about this, but since I plan to have this board for a long time, I'd be willing to spend
the extra to get a better overall setup for the long haul, and I get the impression that the Transit bindings are ok, but nothing compared to the others mentioned. Is that accurate?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!!!

thx

[Blindside_137]

Well I just pruchased an 09 Limited Watson and bought a PS3 back in 06. In between I had a Ronix one and here's what I can tell you.

I've only had a few sets on the watson but its extremely slow compared to the other two (when i initiate a cut by rolling back onto my edge). I think it may have something to do with the grind base on the LTD. Ollies seem a little hard too since the board seems to stick to the water. But the watson pops harder, and lands softer than the PS3 or ronix. I think it's taking a little getting used to, at the speeds I typically ride at whenever I edge out and start to cut back in the board nearly stops and sinks. (again, the slowness may be from the grind base)

The PS3 was awesome, my first pro wakeboard setup purchase with some 06 watsons. Loved that setup for the years I was on it. Bought the ronix because I just like trying out new things when it comes to wakeboarding. The PS3 has more speed than the watson and rolls onto edge much quicker. It's a little bit grippier but not much. Both are really fun boards. The pop on the PS3 is a little more out and the watson a little more up

And i know you're not interested, but I absolutely loved my ronix board except for one thing, landings. This board had the most rounded edge of anything i've seen and had a great surfy, carvy feel to it. The pop was great and it locked on edge really well. Didn't seem very slow to me at all but the landings can be murder if you take things to the flats. W2W landings were fine.

[ApacheBL]

Thx for the insight Blindside, def helps. Do you happen to know if you can mount 08 Watson bindings on an 09 PS3? I found a good deal on 08 Watson bindings but the plate def looks a lot different than the 09, so I'm not sure if it matters or not.

thx!

[Blindside_137]

Yea you should have every stance option except for the narrowest. Here's a binding/board compatibility chart.

http://www.evogear.com/wakeboard-and-wakeboard-boot-binding-compatibility-chart-and-information.aspx

But be careful with the 08's. I know that some people had problems with the outer shell peeling. I don't know if it was a bad batch, all of them, or a reaction to too much sunlight or what. Maybe someone else will chime in. But I bet the materials in the 2010 bindings are better.

[ApacheBL]

Thanks Blindside. I actually just found 09 Watson closed toe boots at Gander Mountain for $185! Wow I still can't get over how cheap they were. I almost bought the 08 open toe for the same price, but your comment on the potential issues in 08 got me to keep looking, so thanks!!

Now I just need a board to attach them to! thx again for the help.

[Blindside_137]

no problem man, good luck

[faceplant920]

How much are you looking to spend on a board?

[ApacheBL]

I've found the PS3 (09 - non-blem) for $170, and the Watson (09 - non-blem) for $205. So looking for something around $200.

thx