
Originally Posted by
Kevo
Bandit Man- is the new E 104 more of a handful in tight spots than the 104 Free? It is also interesting to hear that it is more loose in the tail given the shape. Also- what length did you have the most time on with the 104 Free- did you downsize to the new 104?
I owned both the 186 and 191 E104 Free. Skied both quite a bit. Sold the 186 to a buddy as it just felt like it was lacking in stability and dampness. Still have the 191 E104 Free. I really like the added weight and slightly larger turn radius on the 191 E 104 Free, but don't feel like I need the extra length. I feel like the new 185 E104 skis closer to the feel of the original 191 E104 Free, but is somehow a quieter, smoother ride. I did size down with the new model and am really happy with that choice. The new 185 E104 is very manageable in tight spaces and perhaps a bit moreso than its predecessor since it skis looser in the tail.
Two of my favorite skis are the Volkl M102 and Dynastar MFree 108. The Volkl feels like it has no speed limit and feels great in firm and variable snow. It's not great in anything too soft or too deep. The MFree is amazing in soft, deep conditions, where it's loose and smeary nature makes for a capable but surprisingly manueverable tool. It can be pushed pretty hard on firmer snow, but isn't super comfortable there. I really want a ski that sits right in-between those too for my daily driver and I think the new E104 is the closest thing to satisfy that ask. Capable in firm and variable conditions with a high speed limit/high stability but still loose enough to take off-trail and enjoy the powder, soft chop, and sloppy seconds the day after a storm. I didn't expect this to the that ski, but am really pleased with them so far.
In constant pursuit of the perfect slarve...
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