(04-05 model)
Summary - The Crossbow is Black Diamond's all-around ski that
is equally at home on the ski area and in the backcountry. This
ski is relatively stiff flexing and is most appreciated by strong
or aggressive skiers with bigger boots.
Last year, Black Diamond added the C-Matrix cap to the very
popular Crossbow design. The result is a slightly snappier ski
that is less likely to chatter on hardpack. The Crossbow is
light for its width, and very torsionally rigid thanks to the
extra "crossbow" arc of core material. This ski is wide enough
to float on soft snow, but can also hold a solid edge on hardpack
and bust through crud. The Crossbow makes a great all around
ski for intermediate to expert skiers who ski at big resorts,
as well as an excellent backcountry or AT ski for those who
want the extra width. This ski is stiffer than other skis with
similar dimensions, so lighter or less aggressive skiers with
soft boots will have a hard time initiating turns. If you can
turn them though, you'll probably really like them. |
(05-06 model)
The new Crossbow is the next generation of Torsion Bow technology.
The characteristics of the original assymetric Crossbow directed
power to the inside edge of the ski, creating incredible holding
power within both telemark and alpine turns. We've updated it
by fine-tuning the flex pattern for a smoother turn, balancing
the geometry for easier shop tuning and reducing its overall
weight. The result is a ski confident at handling the greater
forces generated by a locked-down heel and balancing the arc
of a pure free heel turn.
-Torsion Bow technology transmits power to the inside edges
for increased hold
-C-Matrix cap construction increases snap and responsiveness
throughout while maintaining dampness
-Densolite core reduces the overall weight
|
Backcountry magazine: ". . .
. The idea behind its defining asymmetric rib (it bows inward)
is that it stiffens up, increasing edge hold, as the ski is
loaded through a turn but remains neutral floating through
powder. . . . . it has a C-Matrix Cap (a combination fiberglass/metal
shell) to reduce chatter and improve edgehold. Tester assessments
were generally positive, with some gushing on the order of:
"If you're looking for a one-ski-does-it-all, this will fit
the bill." ...But for many, it had a fairly light feel underfoot,
was notably stable at speed and through turns, and excelled
in softer snow despite it torsional rigidity."
Skiing magazine:
"The Crossbow is the unsung workhorse of BD's line. One tester called it ,'the 18-wheeler of the backcountry'. Credit the Torsion Bow, an asymmetrical construction that strengthens the outside of each ski. Snappy and stable at high speed."
Off-Piste:"The Crossbow...has been refined with subtle changes over the years...it is a stiff ski and responds best to aggressive input. Novice skiers might better look elsewhere but skiers looking for a ski that can handle a variety of difficult snows with enough waist to enjoy the good stuff will be pleased. It will keep an aggressive skier who prefers the tour over the chair and is not a snow snob very happy. This is a ski that can be skied shorter than you might typically choose. A shorter length makes for a lighter package and does not compromise the ski's performance."
Couloir: "...the Crossbow delivers plenty of flotation in soft and manky snow. Where it really shines, though, is stability at speed, especially on hardpack. Tele testers quipped that it held an edge like it was riding rails, and blew through crud like it wasn't even there. For those who liked its natural, medium- to large-radius arcs, it was even considered nimble, and definitely a ski that performed great all over the mountain. A few were challenged by the Crossbow, and more than one commented that it wasn't a ski for beginners, rather, one that demands the rider like the ride it delivers - which many did." |
