Hi Pete- got to try the new Xwave 85 machine in both extremes, my first impression which might change but here’s some comments for you

Used the rig in the Gorge with a 4.2 at the Hatchery, very overpowered 3.7 (some were on 2.9’s) at Doug’s and in underpowered conditions with a 5.3 in Hood Canal.

-The board planes up super early, love that about them, and just stays there. You need to bear off and pump a bit in underpowered conditions but it holds the plane very very well, I planed right into a wind shadow and was amazed at how far I got.
-Feels very stable in the air without the nose wandering even in gusts
-handles the 5.3 underpowered and the 3.7 overpowered no problemo, amazing sail range!! A 5.8 would be no problem.
-The powerbox is awesome and the fin that came with it is very good, love G10 and this one has lots of oooomph while still keeping the board loose.
-Like the carbon material view window on the deck, confirms the construction material and looks cool
-stability is great, never felt like the board was wandering and tracks extremely well
-The pads are super as on the 2009.
-Smaller wave rides are wicked, so easy and steady, the best part and carves hard when you want to or glides when you want to; I know already this thing will excel on the coast
-gybes on autopilot, truly masterful!! Any beginner can look good gybing this rig and advanced sailor will love the ease
- Rotate supereasily in backloops given its short length but I will continue to attempt this in better conditions, did not have the best chance and there were no larger waves out at the Gorge
-Had great speed , which I apprecite.

For what it’s worth Peter. Congrats on another great product! Markus

BTW update of my review: speed is well up there now, got used to the ride. The board rotates fine in loops, just needed the right ramps I am loving it, not just really like it. Cheers. Markus