Sports
Questions and Concerns about Fly Boarding
Fly boarding is quickly becoming popular around the world and looks set to become a favorite pastime for many people.
Many water-sporting enthusiasts have asked if fly boarding is safe and how difficult it is to learn. We have prepared a list of questions and concerns that many people have about fly boarding which can help you identify if this water sport is for you.
Is Fly Boarding Difficult?
The most commonly asked question about Fly boarding is about the difficulty of learning the sport. People wonder if anyone can learn it or is this more suited for athletes.
Fly boarding may look intimidating to common people, but the sport is surprisingly easy to learn. The only thing you need to understand is how to have a good balance.
The first time you try it, you will probably go spinning, flipping and crashing into the water with no clue of where you are. But once you get the hang of the jetpacks, it will become second nature. You will be standing, walking and rising over the surface in no time.
Fly Boarding Safety
The second concern people have is about safety. People wrongly assume that the sport is dangerous because it looks that way.
The sport is much safer than a number of other water sports activities like wakeboarding or jet skiing. A typical PWC (Personal Water Craft) can only rise to a height of 30 feet and attain a speed of 20 mph which is much slower than jet skiing or wakeboarding.
Fly boarding devices are also designed to float over the water surface hence there is no risk of sinking. For additional safety, many people use a personal floatation device and helmet to guard against drowning or head injury.
How Easy Is It To Set Up?
Fly boarding equipment may look complicated to set up but all systems are pretty straightforward. You can easily remove the steering system from the craft and install the adapter in less than an hour. After that you can hook the hose to the PWC and start flying in no time.
What Kind of PWC Should I Get For Fly Boarding?
Another common question is about the type of PWC, or personal water craft, that works with fly boarding. All the latest types of PWC models can be easily attached to the fly boarding equipment. The most popular models in PWC that are being used are Sea Doo, Yamaha and Kawasaki.
You need at least around 100 horsepower to fly and lift off the surface but most people prefer something between 150hp to 180hp for a more enjoyable experience.
A PWC capable of generating 180hp can get a 200-pound pilot 30 feet over the surface and should fulfill all your fly boarding needs.
Can I Operate a Fly Board Myself?
If you buy the fly boarding device and PWC, you will need someone to operate the device for you. This is something we recommend for beginners. Have someone who is already experienced in this water-sport operate it for you.
You can also attach an Electronic Management Kit (EMK) to the device to operate it yourself, using a throttle. Most experienced users prefer this approach.
Ease of Carrying
People also ask how difficult it is to transport the equipment from one place to another.
Most common jetpacks, jetboards and jetbikes weigh between 15 to 40 pounds and can be easily transported. A normal hose weighs 30 to 60 pounds. It can be rolled up for easier transportation.
How Much Do Fly Boards Cost?
When fly boards first came into the market, a full system could cost up to $100,000. With better design and innovations, the manufacturers have been able to reduce prices drastically.
Today, a typical fly boarding kit is priced at $5000 to $10,000.
Other than price, the main cost is fuel. It consumes 3 to 8 gallons per hour, mainly depending on the pilot’s weight as well as the speed and height you fly at. Pilots using it for recreation could be looking at around $50 dollars per day.
Is It Legal To Use?
In most states across the U.S., fly boarding devices are considered to be PWC accessories. They can be used on waterways where you are permitted to use PWCs.
Still, it is a good idea to check about fly board legality with local authorities before you start using them.
What Age Group Can Use It?
People have also been concerned if fly boarding requires an age bracket. We’ve seen them ask who can use fly boards and if they are too young or too old to enjoy this sport.
Fly boards can be used by everyone from 6 to 80. The fly board boots come in size of 3.5 to 11.5. It takes less than 15 minutes to get the hang of how the device works. Once a pilot gets their balance, it becomes very easy and fun to fly.
Fly boarding is a great water sport that can be enjoyed by the whole family.