Rossignol "30-Second" ski reviews: new for 2008
Bandit B78
Rossi's entry into the 78mm 1-ski-quiver sweeps is more "jacques-of-all-traits" than outstanding performer in any given area. Reliable, predictable and capable of handling most conditions likely to be encountered in a day of inbounds recreational skiing. Ski feels like a typical Rossignol: smooth, light, occasionally bouncy. Many of our test skiers preferred the 83.
Bandit B83
Like K2, Rossi enjoys a loyal cadre of die-hard brand fans who are most likely to appreciate the improvements in the 83, formerly B3. Like most foam Rossignols, the B83 is smooth, relatively light, carves well and is quick for a big stick. Wood-core enthusiasts, however, also used terms like "bouncy" and "lacking solid snow connection." Rossignol skiers will get exactly what they expect; others should definitely test before buying.
Bandit B3 W
Updated B3 W, excellent 1-ski quiver for skilled women who spend at least 60% of the time off groomed. Agreeable in reasonable bumps; should be a strong member of the lineup. Most versatile of Rossi's female-specific free ride skis.
Zenith Z11 Mutix
This newest member of the Mutix collection adds all mountain focus to the hard snow technical bent of the R11 and received decidedly mixed reviews. Not—this is important—for performance reason, in which it scored well, but for complexity and, especially, for noise. Comments: "Rossi needs to stop making skis that have spare parts. Carved a good turn, but the plates are noisy" and "Expensive and full of every bell and whistle one could think of" vs. "Fast, smooth quick edge-to-edge, some hard work but a lot of fun!" and "There is a definite difference between the stiff and soft versions. I prefer the stiff, but the most important thing is how light and nimble it feels in both versions." Take your pick, or, better yet, take a demo test ride.
Attraxion XI Mutix
Our female test skiers seemed to have had less interest in the Attraxion than did the men the Zenith; we received fewer cards. Nevertheless, reviews were generally favorable and performance scores skewed markedly higher among the women.
Bandit B 104 Squad
Professional-level big mountain free ride competition ski - period! Solid, stable, very smooth and moderately energy intensive.
Also reviewed on subscription site: unchanged '07 carry-over models and additional '08 models—Bandit 78W, Zenith Z11 Visco, Attraxion XI Visco, Bandit B83 W, Scratch Brigade, Scratch Ghetto, Scratch Girl FS
