Mako 6 v Elite

Trying to get some opinions on the comparison between the Fenn Mako 6 and the Elite, particularly on their overall performance, ie in both flat (river) and ocean conditions, from people who have paddled both.

I want a ski that is going to be competitive in a variety of conditions, not just downwind, and unfortunately I am looking at the second hand market, of which Fenn seems to have the majority.

Thanks.

I've paddled both and the stability feels virtually the same. On the flat I can't notice a difference. The 6 has more rocker and IMO is more manouvrable on waves, however the elite tracks better. The 6 has more seat room so worth trying for fit before you buy. When you put them next to each other there is stuff all difference, so just go with what you feel best in. All the specs should be on the web.

I hope that helps.

I have and train in both carbon 6 and Elite. Elite is far faster and more stable. Elite surfs a LOT better as the rudder is further forward....very noticeable in short period wind waves, where the 6 spins out a lot unless you're going hard. Just no comparison....I use my 6 as a " beater boat" for training only because it was cheap and second hand.

I only paddled the Elite briefly, and used to own an M6. I found the Elite tippier and more difficult to remount - so if you think you might fall out, try a remount when you demo the skis.

The rudder placement on the Elite makes it much easier to control on waves. If you'll only race on the flat then there's probably nothing in it.

The Elite might be easier to sell later???

I've spent a lot of time in both boats. In my opinion the Elite:
- is slightly tippier than the M6
- has much less tendency than the M6 to broach off waves.
- is much better at bouncing the next wave, where the M6 has a tendency to sink into and wallow when you try to go over the next wave.
- feels faster on the flat than the M6

I prefer the Elite by far - because of the radically better performance in downwind conditions.

Thank you all for the feedback, much appreciated. Elite it is. Now I just need the overtime to pay for it.

Cheers

So cool that now you have decided that they come out with the SL.........

SL? Slimline? Slightly longer? Seriously lovely?

I've paddled both, each for more than a season, and can agree with 100% of what Rob has written.

However, what 'Shed' wrote "When you put them next to each other there is stuff all difference", is not correct; the Elite has a different rudder placement AND cockpit placement, all to better enhance the surfing ability of the Elite.

If I remember correctly, there is a 30cm+ difference in rudder placement, and a 10cm+ difference in seat palcement, EACH in opposing directions to the Mako, making for a different feel indeed, especially when surfing downwind waves.

YMMV (your mileage may vary)
Cheers

Not quite 30cm but close!

For the record, here are the differences:

Reduced rocker ( 3cm at the tail)
The rudder has moved 10cm forward
The cockpit is located 6cm further aft
Narrower hull by 1cm
Taller foredeck by 1cm
Slightly greater volume aft

Interesting from the opinions how the small differences have made the elite handle much better DW. If making these minor adjustments changes a ski so much, it is exciting the scope for more improvements on all skis!

Toys toys toys!!!