Test report: Sabfoil Blackbird 805 - precision meets pressure

The Blackbird Balz Pro is Sabfoil and Balz’ new high-performance line – developed with wingfoil icon Balz Müller. With a monoblock construction and an “active” fuselage, Sabfoil promises more stiffness, earlier take-offs, higher top speeds and a “cleaner” flow.

We used the 805 on the Selenter and Plöner See lakes – in very strong, gusty winds and with decent wind waves. It was precisely these conditions that showed what the foil is built for: early take-off relative to the surface, high top speed and razor-sharp carving. We were able to confirm much of what the manufacturer and an extensive independent test emphasize – with a few nuances from practice.

By the way: The set came to us as a surprise shortly before the official launch – as part of our podcast with Famous Frank. Thanks to Frank for making it possible! You can listen to the podcast here: Podcast post on Wingpassion.de or here: Spotify episode.

In short: The Foil is very stiff, very connected and reacts immediately. It is not a comfort glider, but rather a precise piece of sports equipment that rewards clean riding.

Price & variants: Front wing from €699 (805), other sizes 905 and 965; set options with Blackbird mast and progressive pole are available (e.g. Glider 805-365). Complete sets including Blackbird mast and Progressive pole cost from approx. 1,879 €. Prices may vary depending on the dealer/bundle.

Watch the video here or at the end of this article.

On land – structure, processing & technology

The rigid, very “clean” design is immediately noticeable when unpacking and mounting. Transitions are minimized, the setup looks well thought out and of high quality. In the hand, the 805 gives the impression of maximum connection between the mast, fuselage and front wing – and this is reflected later on the water: hardly any flex, clear feedback. And: it feels high-quality!

Our takeaway on land: If you are looking for performance, you will appreciate the monoblock character. However, if you expect maximum forgiveness, the 805 is not the ideal choice. (The “active” fuselage, monoblock construction and two screw types for mounting are key Blackbird features).

Data Blackbird 805:

Span 805 mm, area 792 cm², aspect ratio 8.3, root chord 143 mm. Sabfoil specifies take-off 13-15 kn and top-end 28-30 kn (at 80 kg).

Components & compatibility:

The Blackbird series includes the SP345/365/385 Progressive poles; the Blackbird masts (UHM/W-Core) are optional. The Monoblock Foil also works with any existing Kraken masts (R8 interface) from Sabfoil.

The Blackbird masts ( 75/85/95 cm) are based on a race-oriented profile with a slightly increased chord depth for high speed and +20 % torsional rigidity. UHM carbon with W-Core (i.e. with a light wood core) is used in the construction. This results in a very stiff, reactive feel – noticeable in pitch/yaw stability at speed and in chop. The connection remains R8/Kraken-compatible, and the Blackbird gliders only require two types of screw – practical when rigging. In practice, the 85 cm mast was our sweet spot on the lake: enough leverage & directional stability for strong winds and wind waves, without getting “too deep” in shallow areas. 75 cm should feel more maneuverable/flatter and is of course recommended for spots with little depth. 95 cm certainly offers the most line stability and upwind stability at speed/downwind and in the waves – but naturally needs more depth.

On the water – character, areas of use & riding experience

Start & control (strong wind setup)

In very strong, gusty winds, the 805 takes off early – remarkable for the comparatively compact surface. Pumping feels efficient, the foil takes gusts calmly without stalling. The pitch feedback is sporty and direct: footwork is immediately “translated”. Those who stand precisely enjoy control; those who ride “passively” quickly realize that the foil wants to be ridden actively.

Agility & Carves

In carves, the 805 shows its DNA: fast edge changes, tight radius, directional stability. The foil felt “connected”, especially in passages with intensive course changes – no swinging, no rubber, just a clear line. This gives you the confidence to build up pressure and consciously vary the radius.

Pop & Speed

For freestyle pop, the 805 delivers clean lift out of the turn or after a short pump. At the same time, speed is the obvious strength: the foil accelerates willingly, remains steady on the line and invites you to freerace. In strong winds, we never had the feeling of “riding it out” – there is plenty of headroom.

Glide

In the wind waves on Lake Selent and Lake Plön, the 805 carried surprisingly far: once up to speed, the foil glided along the bumps and connected them almost effortlessly. Even in short wind holes, it held its height and continued to run smoothly with a minimal angle of attack and light front foot pressure. Our aha moment: a very long, clean glide across several wave trains – often 1-2 flat pumps were enough to take the next shoulder.

Touchdowns & tolerance

Touchdowns remain uncritical, the foil decouples cleanly and sets off again without drama. Nevertheless, the tolerance threshold is lower than for feel-good all-rounders. Technically clean riding pays off – then the foil is surprisingly uncomplicated. If you are looking for very forgiving material, the Blackbird-805 is the wrong choice – it needs to be ridden actively and cleanly.

Size selection & range of applications

The size range offers a fairly broad spectrum for different applications:

Blackbird 805 (792 cm²): Medium-strong wind, freestyle/freerace, powerful waves. Highest top speed in the range; requires an active riding style.
Blackbird 905 (998 cm²): All-round for freeride/wave lines and early take-off.
Blackbird 965 (1210 cm²): Light wind, downwind & surf flow, maximum glide, lower top speed.

Setup tips

Stabilizer: The progressive bars (345/365/385) are tuned for speed + control; the smaller the bar, the freer & faster, the larger, the smoother & more controlled – a good lever for adapting the 805 to spot & style. In our test, we felt very comfortable with the 365 – a good combination.
Mast: Blackbird masts (UHM/W-Core) provide tracking stability at speed; the system remains modular with the existing Kraken R8.
Board/Spot: The 805 shines in flat water and in clean waves; in gusty conditions with a lot of chop, a slightly larger board (volume reserve) helps for stress-free take-offs (experience from our short test).

Who is the Blackbird 805 for?

For ambitious riders looking for speed, pop and precise lines – freestylers, wave riders and sporty freeriders. Those who prioritize maximum good-naturedness, super-early lift in light winds or an “autopilot feeling” will certainly be better off with the 905/965 or other, larger-area setups.

Pros & cons (805)

Plus

Noticeably stiff and direct (monoblock feel)
Fast take-off relative to the surface, very high top speed
Precise carving, clean pop, smooth touchdowns
Modular: R8/”Kraken” compatible, clear Stabi options

Minus

Needs an active driving style – no “sofa-foil”
Only develops its strengths with sufficient wind pressure

Conclusion

The Sabfoil Blackbird 805 is a sporty precision foil: very direct, fast and controlled, without spongy transitions. The active fuselage + monoblock stiffness provide a clever mix of glide, pop and speed that will immediately appeal to advanced riders. The “clean & connected” riding impression was confirmed on Lake Selent – with reserves upwards for longer sessions in wind and waves. If you are looking for performance and are prepared to work cleanly, you will get top material with sensible modularity.