2015 Head Worldcup Rebels i.SLX

[VAskier]

I'm looking for PMTS expert's opinions on how the 2015 Rebel i.slx compares to the non-RD i.sl and the i.supershape speed.

In a 170, the i.slx is 121/66/106 with a 12m radius, PR11 binding, and does not have KERS

[DougD]

Be aware that the PR11 binding has a higher ramp angle than the PRD12 or 14 (8mm heel:toe delta vs. 4mm). This can make a ski handle and feel completely different. The wrong ramp angle (for you) can turn a great ski into an unmanageable or even painful one.

Example: the i.SS Speeds I demoed from HSS had the PRD14, but the "bargain" ones I bought online came with PR11. They were terrible, nothing like the PMTS-responsive skis I'd skied in CO. Diana graciously rescued me by selling me a pair of PRD14s, which fixed everything.

Not saying the PR11 is a bad binding. It may be great for you - or not. Optimal ramp angle depends on your anatomy and skiing movements. Unless you're a qualified PMTS coach and/or bootfitter, determining your optimal ramp angle may be difficult. Posting video of your skiing (on known gear) might help an expert provide some guidance.

Among Head skis I've only skied (and own) the i.SS Speed, so can't offer comparisons. Others may chime in.

[VAskier]

Thank you for your advice DougD. My current primary setup: Head RS96, i.peak 84, RFD 12 bindings (6mm delta, I believe), but I've been looking for something much narrower than the i.peak 84 skis. It seems that the i.slx with the PR11 binding is too much of a crap shoot. I will be visiting HSS in December, so I think I will wait until then for new skis/bindings.

[DougD]

I will be visiting HSS in December, so I think I will wait until then for new skis/bindings.

Good decision. They'll steer you right and will not pressure you into anything.

P.S. For an eastern skier, and for a PMTS student anywhere, something narrower underfoot than a Peak 84 will indeed be useful.

[VAskier]

Despite my location and username, all of my ski days are in Utah. Even in Alta fluff, the i.peak 84 is more than enough. Every ski I've had prior to the 84s were 72mm or less, so I'm no stranger to narrow-waisted skis and their tip-ability!

[theorist]

Be aware that the PR11 binding has a higher ramp angle than the PRD12 or 14 (8mm heel:toe delta vs. 4mm).

According to the Tyrolia tech manuals, the 2015 (i.e., 14/15) PR11 has a 5 mm delta (same for 12/13 & 13/14); the 15/16 PR 11 has a 7 mm delta.