BIC CROSS 11’ ADVENTURE TEST REVIEW
BIC CROSS
11’ ADVENTURE
TEST REVIEW
Verdict
Bic’s mid-size 11’Cross (they now do a massive 12’ version too) is super stable and easy to paddle for all but the largest of paddlers. The very durable but relatively light Acetec construction is a real winner with families and centres alike with its tough outer plastic skin covering a light epoxy laminate. We found the large, stable Cross not only easy to paddle but surprisingly swift for such a large board. The ideal partner if you’d like a secure fishing board or family-carrying cruiser. Also stable enough for a clumsy yoga enthusiast.
Overview
Built in Acetec (or the heavier Toughtec), we tested the lighter full EVA deck Adventure model (£50 more). On the Adventure this features a full EVA deck pad, standard front and back storage / fishing seat attachment points, a towing eye on nose and a deep ledge handle. Below its high volume rails the bottom has a displacement nose which runs into a slight vee throughout and back to a neat quick-release plastic 9” touring fin in a US box, all wrapped in a tough plastic skin.
Brand Claim:
An ultra-stable platform equally suited for first-timers, family fun, fitness, yoga, fishing or whatever your next SUP adventure may be. The unique ‘hybrid’ design of the Cross features a keeled nose for excellent tracking, full rail-to-rail volume for enhanced stability and maximum use of the entire deck, and a full waterline to increase speed and efficiency. Numerous attachment points for securing accessories and deck rigging come standard on all Cross models.
Performance
This board is pretty big and uber-stable but unlike many blocky, chunky boards the Cross is full of neat design features. The displacement nose keeps this wide board tracking really well, far better than you’d expect. It also has a reasonable rocker and volume up front to bob over swell and chop surprisingly well for such a flat water all-rounder. We took the Cross out on a voyage far out to sea and down the coast on a fruitless fishing trip (not my first). Of course it was rock-solid and comfortable in the slight sea state at all times. I’ve fished (more successfully) from plenty of different boards over the years but the Cross seemed ideal in many ways, spritely, pretty good in chop, dry on deck and fairly light too. The same features make the high volume Cross perfect for transporting kids/dogs etc… down rivers or exploring your coast line, and it would make a great yoga board if I was tempted to start. Many iSUP brands are pushing the whole adventure / expedition dream but I would much prefer a hard board like the refined Cross Adventure to glide down a river if I could avoid airplane transport. Overall the Cross 11’ has plenty of qualities under its skin: it’s tough, versatile, suitable for everything except surfing or racing. Great for bigger riders and for those that plan to do something other than just paddle when they’re on the water.
OTHER BOARDS IN THIS TEST:
Bic Cross Adventure 11’
Fanatic Ray 12’6
JP All Water GT 12’6
Loco Amigo 9’11
O’Shea HD 10’6
Red Paddle Co Ride 10’ 6
Riber Deluxe 10’2
Starboard Go 11’2