I know this is the build forum but currently nomadic and don’t have my soldering work station and tools etc. Looking to add a foill assist to my SUP foil set up and was wondering if buying used Foil Drive plus for $1000 was a solid move, though will have to buy some travel batteries also, as my set up is for travel. Thinking about converting to back pack as well. Anyone done this with Foil Drive gen1?
Seems like I would spend close to $1000 on DIY though set up would be better. Just trying to get it done
If it’s in good shape, I’d go for the used FD to get rolling.
You’re looking at a motor $170 + ESC $90 + controller $110 + mount $? + wiring & misc connectors $? + hub/prop + case + wire + etc. = You’re probably close even before you add a battery.
Also, tariffs are a big ? from most people ATM (I heard to add $75-80 for tariffs for just the Saite motor on top of the ~$170, then carry that across other items as well), shipping takes a long time and also gets expensive.
A tip - AI does really well breaking down what’s needed and costs, it’s been really helpful to help quickly summarize things.
I say go for a used one! I read somewhere that starting to diy a foil drive is to start a new hobby besides foiling. That is totally true for me. I keep tinkering and fixing stuff.
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I have just started my journey on building a foil assist backpack.
If I could have got a fd gen 1 to start with, I would definitely have done that.
My build will be around 1200$ for everything, given that everything goes smooth (and I already have a 3D-printer).
Thanks guys!!! I had that feeling though I was drawn to building something specific for my needs. Maybe the next one…
Building is fun if you have the time and ready for a massive trial and error experience. The OG Foildrive Gen 1s are pretty reliable and well executed … its been more reliable than any of my DIY builds … its what i would take on downwind run - put it that way.