Lesson 2 Lego Approach (feedback)

Several persons have asked for clarification on this lesson.

Let me try another analogy.

A triangle is the bases many structures because of its inherent strength. The Pyramids, bridge supports, high rise buildings comes to mind!

In ski tuning think of this geometry figure with skis in the apex and boots and bindings at its base. All work together ( or are supposed to).

The binding and boot adjustment or tuning are done once when you buy them. If all is well you should not have to do any "tuning" of these two again.

Remember what ski tuning is. A modification of ski equipment to get the most in ski effectiveness based on your needs.

We all have "unique feet" those we must modify some aspect of the boots to adapt them to our feet. That is tuning. In my case my boots have in the liner surgical cuts to take foam out here and there. One buckle is moved over and I have installed a second power strap on the top lip of the linner since I tend to lose the power straps all the time! Once this is done,,,I can sleep with my boots or go dancing with them. They are like slippers!

I received most feedback on the issue of binding placement. I will call all the ski companies and see if I can get a clear statement from them on this issue.

I repeat what I stated previously. There seems to be no "agreement" on this issue due to all the major changes in ski design, ski performance, ski interface issues. Each company seems to have chosen different options.
In the case of Atomic they have a series of pre-set screw placement marks on a plastic top. Then allow some limited adjustment once bindings are screwed on. To see if I could "deviate" from their suggested placements I took the plastic top piece off. Horror ,,,,space just air if you go 5 mm towards tip. That means the screw would not hold! Be warned!
Elan has a more "flexible" system which allows more play, thus you can move bindings more. There is a side level which 'clamps' down two seratted horizontal shanks!

Rossi has for the very best skiers aluminum plate thus you can drill your own holes if you want!

As to the question where to place bindings. I would for 90% of skiers let technician do it,,,,but I would have a discussion first. If in doubt about competence of technician,,,move on. This is why I recommend for new skiers to rent until you know what you want!
Rental bindings have a greater range of adjustments so you can play with where the units go! Since a lot of the skis I test have such units I do play with them and note what is acceptable for me! I do not want to impose my choice, but I will via PM for the class students give them advice! That is why they "selected" this course! That individualized attention!

Regardless where you place bindings what you all must understand is that all three components work together to give you pleasure. If you do not take the time to do this tuning , they may not work together and even be dangerous! It takes a competent technician who thinks and understands this to correct problems!
Fixing one unit ( boots) and not looking how it interfaces with skis or bindings is just sheer incompetences!

I hope this is a better class and has cleared the air as far as unit interface and the Lego analogy!

One last comment. Never but never trust the markings or reference marks on boots , skis or bindings. Measure yourself ! Check! I have seen center markings on a pair of skis in different positions. I have seen DIN scale markings "moved" so please lean toward safety. Check and measure yourself or get someone who knows to so!

That is why some skiers wanted to learn!