Blizzard Thunderbird R13 LTD – Review

Blizzard’s Thunderbird R13 LTD is a purpose‑built on‑piste sport carver: 70 mm underfoot, full camber (no rocker), double Titanal, and a race‑style plate. It targets advanced to expert skiers who like fast, aggressive carving in short to medium radii on groomers—especially hard morning corduroy and refrozen surfaces.

Key takeaways

• Razor edge hold, serious power: 2Ti and full camber lock into a turn and stay calm at speed.
• Short‑to‑medium turn specialist: lively transitions and a natural R13 feel without SL twitchiness.
• Damping over playfulness: Active C‑Armor and the plate deliver smoothness but demand good technique.
• Best on firm groomers: superb on hard snow; less happy in bumps, deep slush, or soft chop.

On‑snow performance

Carving and edge grip

The R13 LTD loves to be tipped over. Turn initiation is precise; once on edge it feels “locked‑in” with excellent bite on icy patches. The Trueblend Piste core (poplar/beech) spreads flex where you need it, adding rebound you can feel when you release the ski.

Speed and stability

With double Titanal, a race plate, and Active C‑Armor, this ski is notably composed. It handles higher speeds than many SL‑leaning carvers, though it won’t replace a GS ski. Medium radius arcs feel most natural, with minimal tip flutter when you stay committed to the edge.

Short vs. medium turns

Short slashes are quick and powerful, yet the ski shines in rounder, medium‑radius carves where you can really load the plate for strong exit acceleration. If you want ultra‑snappy SL behavior, a Rossignol Hero Elite ST TI is still quicker; the Blizzard runs calmer and more versatile at speed.

Mixed conditions

In afternoon chop and light ridges, damping helps, but 70 mm and full camber limit float and forgiveness. In moguls it requires an active, centered stance. Off‑piste is not its brief.

Construction & tech (what it does)

• Trueblend Piste woodcore (poplar/beech): tuned flex for even pressure and lively rebound.
• Double Titanal (2Ti): metal above/below the core for torsional rigidity, grip, and damping.
• Active C‑Armor: carbon reinforcement around the binding zone to smooth vibrations and add snap.
• Full camber: maximizes edge contact and energy on hardpack.
• FDT/Race plate interface: added stand height and leverage for quicker edge‑to‑edge; increases precision and weight.
• Factory bevels (~0.9° base / ~87.5–87.7° side): “racey” edge feel; a slight tip/tail detune can mellow initial bite.

Specs & what they mean

• Rocker profile: full camber (no rocker)
  Expect instantaneous edge engagement, precise steering, and strong rebound on groomers.
• Dimensions (by length): approx. 120–121 / 70 / 104–105 mm
  Narrow waist = very quick edge‑to‑edge; a bit of tip/tail width helps you lock into the carve.
• Radius: 11–13.5 m (13 m @165 cm)
  Built for short‑to‑mid turns; technique dictates whether it slices short or rounds out.
• Weight: ~3.04–3.38 kg per pair incl. plate/binding (size dependent)
  Heavier for a piste ski, which translates to superior damping and stability over playfulness.
• Available lengths: 155 / 160 / 165 / 170 cm
  Guide: 165 cm suits most advanced skiers; go 170 cm if bigger/faster; 160/155 cm if lighter or you want maximum quickness.
• Plate & binding
  Race‑style plate with compatible binding in most LTD bundles; boosts leverage and response (and weight).

Sizing & setup tips

• Length: chin‑to‑nose for a sportier feel; nose‑to‑forehead for more stability.
• Mount: stick with recommended; experts might try −5 to −10 mm for extra calm.
• Tuning: if you like max grip, consider 0.5–0.7° base / 87° side; for friendlier feel, keep factory angles and lightly detune tips.

Comparisons

• Head Supershape e‑Magnum (72 mm): more accessible and slightly more versatile; the Blizzard feels racier with stronger edge hold.
• Nordica Dobermann Spitfire 70 RB: similar width and metal build; Spitfire varies turn shapes a touch easier, while the Blizzard is more “locked‑in.”
• Atomic Redster S9 Revoshock (SL‑lean): even snappier and ultra‑damped in micro‑chatter; R13 is calmer in medium arcs.
• Rossignol Hero Elite ST TI: quicker for micro‑turns; the Blizzard is more composed as speed rises.

Who it’s for / not for

• For: advanced/experts who love aggressive carving on hard groomers, ex‑racers, coaches/instructors wanting a powerful daily piste tool.
• Not for: beginners, off‑piste hunters, mogul fans, or anyone seeking a soft, playful ride.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Who is the Blizzard Thunderbird R13 LTD for?
A: Advanced to expert piste skiers who favor short‑to‑medium radius carving on firm snow. The 2Ti, full camber, and race plate deliver precision and grip that reward good technique.

Q: How does it handle ice?
A: Excellent. Double Titanal, full camber, and sharp factory bevels provide standout edge hold on refrozen and icy sections. Keep edges maintained and waxed for all‑day consistency.

Q: What length should I choose?
A: Most advanced skiers fit the 165 cm. Size up to 170 cm for more stability or heavier/faster skiers; 160/155 cm for lighter skiers or those prioritizing ultra‑quick turns.

Q: Does the LTD include bindings?
A: Often yes. LTD packages typically include a race‑style plate with compatible bindings (model varies by retailer/year), which also explains the higher per‑pair weight and strong damping.