written by on 22/12/2013
I have owned my bic Mini mal for a about five years. I've owned or surfed on enough other boards to give this rather ubiquitous surfboard a fair review. What first drew me to the bics was their durability. My first preowned surfboard suffered from multiple dinks and dings caused during transport to and from the beach/coast since my home was situated 200 miles inland. (keep in mind I'd spend the entire summer by the shore) Bic filled my need by providing a board that is suitable for highway transport. Custom fiberglass boards are meant to be treated gingerly. Bouncing around on roof rack for hours on end at high speed down a highway tends to compromise a board's integrity. So with that said, the Bic is as durable as a plastic rock, it can take a beating;however,that doesn't mean it is indestructible or immune to cosmetic maladies. Indeed, the bic is tough, but it is prone to pressure dimples and slight outer shell warping. Don't tie it down too tight, it will leave a mark or two. Again, this is a minor aesthetic issue, and if you are ridding a bic, then you likely are not too concerned about what others may think about your surfing abilities. At any rate, it isn't the board, it is the rider, right? If you are new to the sport or are only a marginal surfer then this board is worth considering.
Well as far as the ride goes, the board floats high enough off the water to allow for efficient paddling. It has a decent rocker, and it is easy to catch waves with and pop up on. It is easy to catch waves with, and because of its durability it is well suited for shore break. Now, I find that compared to similar boards, the Bic rides sluggishly through the surf. I think this is due to the board's weight. Its a heavy board for its size,and too heavy to allow the board to be very maneuverable, hence it is not as fun as the moniker "Fun board" suggests. Because of its float, it isn't as easy to duck dive with, but that isn't impossible. On the flip side of things, I have had a blast on the board. I've honed my skills as surfer with it to the point that I am now a competent short boarder. The 7'2" is a great teaching and transitional/loaner board. Give it to a friend, and one doesn't have to worry too much unless it hits them in the head. Overall, it is decent all around board. It is an integral part of my board quiver. Is it perfect? no, far from. However, I don't ever intend to sell it God willing. The value is in its longevity. It has proven to be a reliable board that has withstood the test of wipeouts and the weathering of sand and time. If I could improve the design, I'd prefer it to be lighter, other than that as the old cliche goes " it is what it is."