Understanding Boost ModeUpdated 4 hours ago
Boost Mode gives you temporary access to maximum motor power when you need it most—such as getting onto foil, accelerating quickly, or powering through a critical moment on the water.
This article explains how Boost Mode works, when to use it, and how it behaves in both Trigger Mode and Gear Mode.
What is Boost Mode?
Boost Mode is a temporary increase in motor output that becomes available when you demand maximum throttle.
Rather than providing continuous maximum power, Boost is designed to deliver short bursts of additional performance exactly when they're needed.
Common uses include:
- Getting onto foil
- Accelerating quickly
- Clearing breaking waves
- Catching a wave at the last moment
- Sprinting to a new location
Once the Boost period has been used, it must reset before it can be activated again.
How Boost Works in Trigger Mode
In Trigger Mode, your throttle operates proportionally to the position of the trigger.
- 0–95% trigger travel provides normal proportional throttle control.
- 95–100% trigger travel activates Boost.
When you pull the trigger completely to its stop, the controller recognises that you want maximum performance and engages Boost.
After the Boost period has been consumed, it will temporarily become unavailable until it resets.
Resetting Boost
After Boost has been used, it needs time to reset before it can be activated again.
To reset Boost:
- Release the throttle completely.
- Wait approximately 6 seconds.
- Boost is available again.
Although Boost technically resets once the throttle has remained below approximately 50% for six seconds, the easiest method is simply to release the trigger completely and count to six before using full throttle again.
Boost in Gear Mode
Gear Mode provides a different way to control power.
Instead of continuously adjusting the trigger position, each gear limits the maximum throttle available.
For example:
- Gear 1 = Low power
- Gear 3 = Medium power
- Gear 5 = High power
While riding in any gear, pressing and holding the Boost (B) button temporarily overrides the selected gear and delivers full power.
As soon as the Boost button is released, the controller immediately returns to the selected gear's throttle limit.
This allows you to cruise comfortably while still having instant access to maximum thrust whenever you need it.
When Should I Use Boost?
Boost is designed for short, purposeful bursts of power—not continuous use.
Typical situations include:
- Getting onto foil
- Accelerating through whitewater
- Catching a wave
- Climbing over a swell
- Reaching a location quickly
- Recovering from a slow-speed manoeuvre
Using Boost only when needed helps improve ride control and conserve battery capacity.
Can I Disable Boost?
Yes.
If you reduce the maximum throttle in Trigger Mode, Boost is automatically disabled.
For example:
- Setting the throttle limit to 48% prevents Boost from activating, even when the trigger is fully pulled.
This is particularly useful for:
- Beginner riders
- Junior riders
- Coaching sessions
- Anyone learning to foil safely
If you require lower cruising power but still want occasional access to Boost, Foil Drive recommends using Gear Mode instead of limiting Trigger Mode.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't Boost activating?
Boost may not activate if:
- Your throttle limit has been reduced below full range.
- You haven't allowed Boost enough time to reset after previous use.
- You're not pulling the trigger fully (Trigger Mode).
- You're using Gear Mode without pressing the Boost (B) button.
Does Boost use more battery?
Yes.
Boost delivers higher motor output than normal riding, so it consumes more energy. Occasional use has minimal impact, but frequent Boost activation will reduce overall ride time.
Can I ride with Boost all the time?
No.
Boost is intended for short bursts of additional performance and automatically times out after use before it can be activated again.
Which riding mode is best?
Trigger Mode
- Natural, proportional throttle control.
- Ideal for experienced riders who prefer precise finger control.
Gear Mode
- Consistent power levels.
- Easier for long-distance cruising.
- Instant full power available using the Boost (B) button.
Neither mode is better—they simply suit different riding styles.
Best Practice
For the smoothest riding experience:
- Cruise using normal throttle or Gear Mode.
- Save Boost for moments when you genuinely need additional power.
- Allow Boost to reset before expecting another burst.
- If teaching beginners or younger riders, consider limiting throttle instead of relying on Boost.
Using Boost strategically gives you maximum performance when it matters while maintaining predictable control and improving overall battery efficiency.