Reading the literature provided, it is clear that
North Sails have big hopes for the 2006 Duke,
pitching it squarely at the tricky crossover
wave/freestyle market. Designed for use in any
environment, the whole range (4.2m-6.9m) can be
rigged on a 430cm, making it a very practical
option for the travelling windsurfer; and whilst
particular effort has been taken to reduce its
apparent weight during sailing (including a
reduced batten count and revised twist pattern) its
structural strength is ensured through North’s use
of high quality materials and attention to detail.
Rigging and Set
The 5.9m Duke has a great deal of pre-shape, the
depth of which can be set by playing the outhaul
against the downhaul to display a very impressive
tuning range. Using the accurate VTS increments
provided, the leech twists off smoothly as more
downhaul is applied, whilst the two bottom
battens retain significant rotation, irrespective of
the amount of outhaul tension.
Ride and Handling
With its full profile, it came as no surprise that the
Duke generated good steady constant drive in
marginal conditions, the combination of Dacron
and x-ply in its luff-panel making it very pumpable,
feeling soft yet precise in the hands. The centre of
effort is around head height, pulling the rider up
into a manoeuvre-oriented stance, whereas the
clew eyelet is low, allowing the rider to lock the sail
in and cover distance without trouble. Feeling
supremely compact and light in the hands (due in
part to its short boom length), the Duke provides
the power and inspiration to explode into
manoeuvres; indeed, it is one of the few preshaped
sails we would quite happily use for
freestyle, the softness in the sail dampening down
the battens’ rotation, making it smooth and subtle
so that the power doesn’t become overbearing
mid-transition. In over-powered conditions, the
Duke can be retuned to exhibit its exceptional
stability, remaining balanced and focussed at all
times. Suiting any rider style, ability and weight,
the Duke is a stunning all-round contender.
For: Precise useable power, light handling and
exceptional wind range.
Against: To get the most out of the Duke you have
to be prepared to experiment with its set.
Verdict
Combining constant power with light balanced
handling, the Duke is one of the most versatile
and practical sails around, capable of putting its
hand to any discipline, from freeride to wave
riding. It comes highly recommended.
