The Roam FCS Side Bite Fin Set is designed to add drive and stability to single-fin surfboards running a 2+1 setup. With a wide base and a relatively neutral tip, these compact side fins add support and control while allowing the center fin to remain the dominant part of the setup. They are a practical choice for compatible longboards and mid-lengths.
Roam FCS Side Bite Fin Specs
- Brand: Roam
- Product Type: Surfboard Side Bite Fins
- Fin Size: 3.57"
- Fin System: FCS Two-Tab
- Fin Setup: Side Bites
- Application: 2+1 Longboards and Mid-Lengths
- Condition: New
- Item Number: 119539
Designed for 2+1 Surfboards
Side bites are the two smaller side fins used alongside a larger center fin in a 2+1 configuration. Roam designed these fins to add drive and stability to single-fin setups, making them well suited to longboards and mid-lengths equipped with compatible side-fin boxes.
Adding side bites can give a single-fin-based board additional support through turns while retaining the center fin as the primary fin in the setup.
Wide Base for Drive and Stability
Roam gives its Side Bite a wide base with a fairly neutral tip. The wider base is designed to provide additional drive and stability, helping the board feel more engaged when pressure is applied through a turn.
The compact side-bite size allows the fins to complement rather than replace the larger center fin, making them useful for surfers who want to tune the feel of a 2+1 setup.
3.57" Side Bite Template
Roam currently lists its standard Side Bite at 3.57". This compact template is specifically designed for use as a side fin rather than as a full-size thruster fin.
FCS Two-Tab Compatibility
This version uses Roam's FCS two-tab base. Roam's two-tab FCS fins are designed for the original FCS-style system and can also be used in compatible FCS II boxes when secured with the appropriate optional screws.
Check the fin boxes on your surfboard before purchasing to make sure this is the correct version for your board.
Longboard and Mid-Length Fin Tuning
Changing the side bites is one way to fine-tune how a 2+1 surfboard feels without replacing the center fin. Side fins contribute additional hold and drive from the rail, which can be useful when a pure single-fin setup feels too free or when the surfer wants additional support through turns.
Because the overall feel of a 2+1 setup also depends heavily on the center fin, center-fin size, placement, board design, and wave conditions should all be considered when choosing a complete setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large are the Roam Side Bite fins?
Roam lists its standard Side Bite fins at 3.57".
What are side bite fins used for?
Side bites are small side fins typically paired with a larger center fin to create a 2+1 setup on longboards and mid-length surfboards.
What do the Roam Side Bites add to a surfboard?
Roam designed these side bites to add drive and stability to a single-fin-based setup.
Do these fins fit FCS boxes?
Yes. This version uses Roam's FCS two-tab base. Roam also states that its FCS two-tab fins can be used in FCS II boxes when secured with the appropriate optional screws.
Are these a replacement for a longboard center fin?
No. These are side bite fins intended to complement a larger center fin in a 2+1 setup. A center fin is selected separately unless specifically stated otherwise.
Shop Surfboard Fins at Rider Shack
Buying from Rider Shack supports a small, family-owned core surf shop operated by surfers passionate about sharing the love of surfing and the ocean. Whether you're replacing a fin or dialing in a different setup, we're here to help you find compatible surfboard equipment for the way you surf.
