XilR8

I'm looking at getting an all-round freeride board this season, but I can't decide between the Burton Custom X and the Baron ES. To be honest, I can't really tell the difference except that the Baron ES has a slightly wider nose and tail. What, if any, effect does this have? And is there anything else I'm missing? They both sell for the same price and seem to be targeted at the same type of rider, so I'd appreciate any advice from any more knowledgeable boarders out there before I part with such a large amount of cash. Thanks!

I've heard it's open with artificial snow. I've already waxed my board, and been to one of those Winter Sports Festa events to get some new gear. I'm champing at the bit. So: am I going to be horrifically disappointed?? I've only boarded for 1 season, and only on groomers at that. So I don't really mind an unspectacular course. Has anyone ever tried early-season Karuizawa?

I have a student who works making snowboards here in Japan (Asakusa area). He claims that he is making snowboards for Burton and K2, and that the manufacturing process is in fact pretty cheap!

Isn't it actually cheaper for the airline if you don't use the return portion of your ticket? They have the possibility of giving your seat to someone else. If they don't do that, they still use 1 less meal (which they'll probably save and serve to someone else later), plus the fact that you and your baggage are not on board will make the plane (negligibly, I know) lighter and thus save on fuel! This penalty is one of the stupidest things I've ever heard of!

Went to Kagura for my end of season trip yesterday. In the morning, conditions were misty and wet, but there was still plenty of decent spring snow to enjoy, even at the bottom of the Mitsumata area. Me and my mate tried out all the runs and the Force Park (which was supposedly closed, but saw plenty of action). In the afternoon, the sun came out and temperatures rose. This resulted in quite a large amount of snow melting away. If it continues at this rate, 28th of May will really be pushing it. As it is, some of the paths between moguls on the top run became exposed ground, and on t

Yeah I just got the confirmation mail from JR tours. I'll be on the first shinkansen out of Tokyo in time to hook up with the 8:20 bus. Thanks SJ & montoya!

I guess I'd like to start with off piste powder and then move into proper BC. Thanks for all the advice so far!

I've spent a couple of years riding the pistes in Japan, and I keep hearing and reading about how great it is to ride BC. But I'm not really sure where to start with this. For example, Kagura - everyone raves about it, but the groomed tracks suck. So, how would I get into the good stuff? Just wander off the piste? Some pointers for getting into this would be much appreciated!

Thanks, that works I think. The usual shuttle bus finished on May 7th but that one still seems to be running.

Hi everyone Does anyone know if there is still a bus service from Echigo Yuzawa station to Kagura/Mitsumata? JR are doing a super cheap deal until May 28th! Much obliged S