Even if you have foiled before, using a Foil Drive is a unique experience and may require a few minor adjustments to your usual riding technique.

Foil Drive systems provide significant torque and power, so take some time to familiarise yourself with the system and its response before entering the water.

Follow these tips to help you ride safely and confidently.

Controller Safety Before Entering the Water

Before entering the water, always make sure your Controller is being used safely to prevent accidental motor activation.

Keep the Controller switched OFF while carrying or handling your Foil Drive on land and around the shoreline. Only turn the Controller ON once the motor is fully submerged underwater.

For more information on Controller Safety, see: Controller Safety Before Entering the Water

Traversing & Motoring Upwind

Foil Drive systems have a lot of torque and power. Always take care when using the motor to move around, particularly at low speeds and power settings.

Very low power settings can move you significantly faster than normal paddling speed. Even at low throttle, the motor can generate enough power to throw you off the board.

When motoring upwind

When motoring upwind into swell, be aware that your foil wing may approach flying speed and potentially stall.

A sudden stall can cause the board and rider to pitch unexpectedly and may result in you being thrown from the board.

If you experience uncontrollable or unexpected movements:

1. Immediately reduce the throttle.
2. Slow your speed down.
3. Regain control of the board before increasing power again.

If the board feels difficult to control, you are probably trying to motor too fast. Reduce the throttle, slow down and enjoy the scenery!

Falling Off & Getting Back On

As with any foil setup, falling off is one of the highest-risk moments when riding.

Never try to save a crash.

If you feel that you are losing control:

1. Jump away from the board.
2. Immediately release the controller trigger.
3. Allow yourself to fall clear of the board and foil.

Trying to stay with the board or save a crash can increase the risk of contact with the foil, mast or board.

Getting Back On The Board

Ensure the throttle is OFF or LOCKED before climbing back onto your board.

Never attempt to use the motor to bring the board back towards you.

Never use the motor while you are in the water or while attempting to climb back onto the board.

Once safely back on the board, ensure you are in a stable position before turning the Controller back on and resuming operation.

For more information on throttle lock, see: Understanding Throttle Lock

Returning to Shore

When you have finished riding, follow these steps before leaving the water.

1. Turn the Controller OFF

Always turn the Controller OFF before jumping off your board to head back to shore.

Do not leave the motor system powered while handling or carrying your board.

2. Never open the Electronics Box near water

Never open your Electronics Box while in or near the water.

The Electronics Box is designed to protect the electronics from water when correctly sealed. Opening it near water can allow water to enter the system.

If water has entered your Electronics Box, stop using the system and follow the appropriate water-ingress troubleshooting procedure before using it again.

3. Remove the Battery immediately after every session

Always remove the battery from your Foil Drive after every session.

Leaving the battery connected can allow the system to continue drawing power and may over-discharge the battery, potentially causing permanent damage.

For more information, see: Battery Care & Best Practices

4. Rinse, Clean & Check

Rinse, clean and inspect your Foil Drive after every session.

For more information, see: Post-Session & Weekly Maintenance Checklist

Quick Safety Checklist

Before entering the water:

☐ Familiarise yourself with the Controller and throttle
☐ Start with a low power setting
☐ Maintain a stable riding position
☐ Be aware of your foil's speed when motoring upwind
☐ Know how to safely release the throttle

If you fall:

☐ Jump clear of the board
☐ Release the trigger immediately
☐ Turn the Controller OFF / Ensure the throttle is LOCKED
☐ Never use the motor to bring the board back to you

When returning to shore:

☐ Turn the Controller OFF
☐ Never open the electronics box near water
☐ Remove the battery after every session
☐ Rinse and clean the entire system
☐ Inspect your equipment before the next session

Take your time, start at low power and build your confidence gradually. Foil Drive provides plenty of power—there is no need to use it all at once.