We have a couple 1966 Bananas that we just got in stock that are looking..well, check them out for yourself! Now, you’re probably wondering what’s the difference between a “1966 Banana” and a “Classic.” I was wondering the same thing so I had Rich give me a little feedback on this “1966 Banana”. Here’s what he had to say…
1966 Original Harbour "Banana"
We took down the 1966 Banana that was hanging on the ceiling in the shop, spent a half a day taking some measurements and made a 9’6″ and a 10’0″ for stock as seen below.
9'6" "1966 Banana" Board #30301
Here’s the 9’6″ 1966 Banana we made for stock. Board #30301. It has a 1″ Balsa stringer, a tail block, and some color on the hot coat to give it that old school vibe.
Dimensions:
Length: 9’6″
Tail: 15″
Wide: 22″
Thick: 3 1/4″
Nose: 17″
Price: $1,305.00
9'6" "1966 Banana" Board #30301
10'0" "1966 Banana" Board #30300
Here’s the 10’0″ 1966 Banana that we made for stock. Board# 30300. It has a 1″ Balsa stringer, a tail block, and some black and red color on the hot coat.
Dimensions:
Length: 10’0″
Tail: 15″
Wide: 22 1/4″
Thickness: 3 3/8″
Nose: 16″
Price: 1255.00
10'0" "1966 Banana" Board #30300
"Classic" VS. "1966 Banana"
The blue “Classic” on the left is 9’10″ and the “1966 Banana” on the right is a 10’0″ but it’s close enough for a visual comparison. Notice the “Classic” has a more pulled in tail, smaller tail block, is wider at the mid-point, and wider through the nose. The “1966″ Banana has a straighter/narrower outline.
The “Classic” at 10’0″ is:
Length: 10’0″
Tail: 14 1/2″
Wide: 22 3/4″
Thick: 3 3/8″
Nose: 17 1/4″
SIDE BY SIDE COMPARISON…
“Classic” Dimensions:
10’0″ x 14 1/2″ x 22 3/4″ x 3 3/8″ 17 1/4″
“1966 Banana” Dimensions:
10’0″ x 15″ x 22 1/4″ x 3 3/8″ x 16″
What can I expect out of these boards?
The “1966 Banana” is literally that…a Banana from 1966. These boards tend to have a pretty narrow and straight outline and a flatter rocker. This one will definitely set trim pretty easily. Breaking that trim, or in other words, turning this board, will be a bit more challenging than any other board in our lineup at the same length. If you have a sense of humor, then you’ll have fun on this one. And yes, it noserides but not as well as our “Noserider” model.
The “Classic” was designed in the 80′s using all of the knowledge gained through the longboard years of the 60′s, this board has the glide that was so important, and a turn that rivals the best design from that era. This one has more curve in the outline than the 1966 Banana.This is a great board for someone who wants the best of everything from those golden years.
What kind of rails do these boards have?
Both boards have 50/50 rails that are full. These boards are stable.
Where do you see these boards performing the best?
Both will perform well at San Onofre, Cardiff, or Bolsa Chica on a peaky day. Maybe Rincon, Malibu, or Trestles with nobody out! Lot’s of people in the lineup means more maneuvering around them while going down the line. These boards will not maneuver very quickly so good luck dodging the crowd at first peak, Malibu on these.
Who would benefit most from this board?
A “1966 Banana” would benefit a better-than-average surfer looking for something different and challenging.
A “Classic” would benefit an average to better-than-average surfer looking for a novelty ride that is challenging but not as challenging as the “1966 Banana”.
Basically…
Think of surfing the “1966 Banana” like driving an old Cadillac from 1966 without power steering. It’s going to take a some effort to crank a turn, it’s heavy, and you’ll probably pearl it if you take it into any waves that are fast and/or steep. However, once you get the hang of it, it’s a lot of fun!
The “Classic” is for the person looking to ride an old school log. It’ll be easier to turn and maneuver than the “1966 Banana” but it still won’t turn like a contemporary cruiser. Don’t worry, it won’t bite you!
Feel free to give us a call at (562) 430-5614 or e-mail us at contact@harboursurfboards.com and we’d be more than happy to assist you with any questions you may have.
“There may be something to be had with riding equipment that doesn’t make surfing easier. Surfing ancient equipment that is difficult to ride is an achievement in itself.”
2012 Harbour Board swap
