How big of a difference does sidecut radius make?

[skigrl27]

OK - so as some of you know I'm ready to spend more money on skis and now I'm down to comparing specs. The smaller the radius the better the ski performs in shorter, quicker turns...and vice versa.

Here's the breakdown of my comparisons:

K2 Nancy in 169 has a 17 sidecut radius.
Mantra in 170 has 18.2
Aura in 170 has 21.1

I like my K2's on the hard stuff, they still hold an edge on groomers quite well. I also like quick turns too and they can take it. But I'm wondering just how differently and how much wider is the turning radius for the Aura...at 21.1?

If I'm demoing the Mantra's tomorrow in 170...then would that even really be a comparable demo to the Aura? Just how big a difference does the 2.9 cm make?

 

[Lori_K]

Ah. I was confused when I first saw the stats, as the Aura is the same tip/waist/tail and sidecut as last year's Mantra. Volkl upped the Mantra by 2mm or so for 2008, and left the Aura the same, so that explains the difference in radius.

I wouldn't worry about the radius numbers. Take them out and ski them, and see what you prefer.

For reference, my last powder skis were a 165 Salomon Pocket Rocket, 120/90/115, with a 15m radius. I found the Aura (19m @ 163cm) a better overall ski, and just as easy to turn.

 

[volklgirl]

When I demoed, I was surprised at how nimble and short-turn capable both the Mantra and Aura were despite the numbers :jaw: