I was recently given a a '06 Hyperlite catalyst 112 by a friend and wanted to know what peoples opinions are of this board and how technology has progressed if any
And also what does the lock fin do and should i look into finding one
The board is designed for wake to wake riding. It is not really designed for skate style tricks.
Modern boards are much heavier which allows the board to stay with the rider better and spin smoother. The heavier weight also rides better on the water.
Modern boards are also much smaller and have wider tails. Generally boards are between 38-41" now. Yours is around 44"
The lock in fin is only for doing nose, tail, and bluntslides on rails. If you arent good on rails, then you shouldnt try it.
Most people prefer wood boards or composite boards with a wood core (like Integrity and Mutiny)
Water Monsters make a great skate that is affordable and durable. Remote makes an amazing skate but they are more expensive (but will last forever). I ride an Integrity, but their new boards wont be out for another month or so
Is there a good remote for wake and rails?
Is the Ronix Electric Collective worth looking at? I'm not a fan of buying from Hyperlite, LF. CWB, Byerly. I would prefer from a independent company
The new style remotes came out in the fall. They are made in limited numbers and are already on their second graphic run for 2012.
If you want a good deck for cheaper you can get a water monster for $250. The Remotes will always be $380ish.
The Liquid Playground has wakeskate wednesdays where they discount certain skates. if you follow them on facebook you can find out about them. They carry all the top wakeskate brands.
I just checker the liquid playground site and all skates are 10% off this month with the coupon code "waterdance"
They are a really cool core shop that focuses on core wakeskates. The owner is one of the coolest people I know.