Replacement for K2 Nemesis 163

Posted: 29 October 2010 04:43 PM

Hi there.  My K2 Nemesis 163 is finally past it’s best, so I’m looking for a replacement.

I’m 43 years old, 6’00”, 14.5 stone and have size 11 feet.  I’ve been snowboarding since 1998, but only one week per year.

I do most of my riding on piste, but would like something that can cope with a bit off off-piste.  I’ve never really done much in the way of jumps and park stuff after dislocating my shoulder in 1999, but now travel with a couple of guys who would like to get into it, so I thought I’d join them.

The boards I’ve seen so far that look interesting are the K2 Slayblade (though your review seems to indicate that it may be a bit advanced for me), the K2 0 and the Burton Process V Rocker (recommended by Burton’s chooser).  All are around the 162 length.  However I’m open to anything as long as my Burton Cartel bindings will fit.

What would you suggest?

Posted: 30 October 2010 10:34 AM

Hey there VladD!
First thing: Your Cartel bindings are decent allmountain and therefore allround bindings so they will fit almost every board and riding style, so no worries about that.

This years Slayblade might indeed be a bit too stiff for you but then again you’re around 90kg so you should be able to bend it with your sheer power. If you got the chance to test it, I would definitely try it!
Also, have a look at the 2010 version of the Slayblade, maybe you can snitch a great deal somewhere!
The ZeroCamber profile which is also part of the Zero, is said to combine the best of the two worlds of Rocker and Camber profiles.
The K2 Zero is one of the most refined rides on the market and reading our review of it, you will get the feeling that you are buying a real jewel when going with the Zero. But as said in the review, the Zero is not really designed to be shred in the park.

As you are planning to visit the park more often again, I’d consider the K2 Believer. Our head of testing Tom loved the deck and rode it around 5months every day and in every possible condition. Check out the ride and let me know what you think!

Cheers, Tobi

Posted: 01 November 2010 01:42 PM

Thanks for that Tobi.

I think I’m leaning towards the 0, just because I spend so much time on the piste and because the ride is so smooth.  My only concern is the board width.  As I said, I’ve got size 11 boots and I tend to ride with my back foot at 0 degrees and the front at 15.  Am I going to get toe or heel drag?

Interestingly my mate bought a Believer last year and raved about the flatline technology, so it’s interesting that you mentioned it too.