Rate Ski Gear

2009 Atomic B5i scores 93 out of 100

By: Team Billy Flanagan

The GOOD news:

This is a hero ski for the expert!!!! Hands down, this ski is a “machine” that allows me to make short slalom turns at 15 to 20 mph and high spped G.S. turns at 40 mph on any type of snow, less powder. The amount of energy released at the end of a turn puts me in the air about two inches off the snow. This allows me to throw my feet back acroos the hill for the next turn and thus, every turn is pure power and acceleration. Edge hold is simply amazing. No chatter, no clatter. like skiing on hockey skates. Crud busting is easy, like shooting a Missle through a canvas tent. It slices, dices and you come out the back-side feeling like a hero…

The BAD news:

Atomic, in their infinite and short sighted wisdom has decided to drop the ski from the 2009/10 product line-up. American’s just don’t get it and Atomic should have made a greater effort in educating them to the skis benefit(s). The price is hard to swallow and the skis weight scares many until they actually put it on their feet and feel the energy explosion at the end of a turn. If I could afford them, I’d purchase 5 pair and hold them for the future when my current two pair wear-out.

Check out my detailed rating here:

http://www.rateskigear.com/products/b5i/ratings/24

Flex, Energy, Power and Acceleration 5

Responsiveness in Short Radius Turns 5

Responsiveness in Medium Radius Turns 5

Responsiveness in Long Radius Turns 5

Stability and Control at Slow Speeds 5

Stability and Control at Cruising Speeds 5

Stability and Control at Fast Speeds 5

Performance and Edge Hold on Hardpack/Ice 5

Performance on Groomed Lift Served Packed Powder 5

Performance in Crud/mixed conditions 5

Performance in Powder 3

Performance in Heavy Wet Snow Spring Conditions 4

Performance in Steeps, Chutes, Couloirs, Backcountry 3

Performance in Bumps, Trees NA

Performance in Racing and Competitive Events NA Although I’ve run both Slalom and GS on them and they are very good for a 1.63m (163cm) ski.

Design, Innovation and Graphics 5 

Durability and Warranty 5

Value vs. Price Paid 3

Overall Impression 5

Would you buy this product (again)? 5 > NA The ski is not available for 2009/10

TOTAL SCORE = 93/100

I use this Product for Recreation Yes

I use this Product for Work Yes

Site Member: Team Billy Flanagan