I’ve been using a GoJoe for several years, ever since my jumps exceeded the length of a leash system, and I like them very much. The first generation of GoJoe was too easy to overinflate and then explode if the board went underwater. I never owned a second generation one but still have two of the first generation that I am working on.
The first (and, from what I have heard) the second generation GoJoe can rub against one’s leg if not wearing a wetsuit, so the new design would eliminate that problem.
The design of the GJP looks very well thought out. The comments on your forum clearly show that there is a certain stigma to having a brightly colored sail on your board. There is an attitude that any form of leash system is somehow beneath expert riders. Well, I have been riding for about a decade now and think that I can hold my own with the rest of the crowd, but I like the idea of not having to shark for my board and get lots of salt water in my face or mouth. It spreads the sun block into the eyes and I do not think that I need that level of discomfort just to appease a few strong-mouthed individuals. I also use an electric kite pump and got a lot of attitude when I first started using it, and now many kiters use (or at least want) an electric pump. To me, kiting isn’t about how manly I can be, it is about maximizing the time I have to exercise, socialize, and enjoy being outside. So devices like the GJP and electric pumps move me closer to getting the most fun out of my session. You “purists” can do what you want, and I will do what I want, and lets just leave it at that.
There are several design points in the GJP that are very nice from my perspective. First, I normally start riding in shallow water by standing on the board. This requires that the GJ go underwater and so I underinflate it a bit. The new design would clearly not require that. Second, having the GJP lie flat during most of the session is a clear plus from the political standpoint, and probably even from a trick execution standpoint. Third, the new design will eliminate the problem of over/under inflation of the device. Fourth, the new device will probably last longer since it cannot explode and is entirely passive.
Like others, I have some concerns. First, the price point is definitely high. The old GJ was expensive. You have to think about the value it provides and the cost of the device it is protecting - the board. If the price fo the GJP competes with the price of a replacement board then it becomes difficult to justify the cost. Second, it looks, from the video, as though we would have to use the handle that comes with the device because it has a cross member that is used to snap the device into. If OR was to provide the cross piece in such a way that it could be used with any handle that might be nice. I have to say that for every GJ I have mounted I have had to purchase new screws, because the GJ base is about 1/8” and the handle screws (and thread inserts) just won’t allow for that extra height. The GJP would also, so if the handle modification suggestion is considered then new screws should be provided with the package. Third, the strap and magnetic connector aren’t so bad for initial riding, but won’t there be a chance of that strap getting yanked off during the rough and tumble existence that boards and kiters go through? Is it designed to be replaceable? Is an extra provided or available at a reasonable cost? Is it fair to assume that the bungees are replaceable over time?
Overall I think that it is a great design and I would definitely like one if the cost is reasonable.
Jack
There’s no more a worthy winner - Congrats. Craig!
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