For me it's about feel....I have specific boards for different conditions.... fresh, light, deep = Nitro 188...fresh, heavy, deep = nitro 178...some deep, some crud, some pack = Osin 178.... but it was a couple notches below on "feel" before the mod...good all around but not as sweet in the deep...it's closer now without me worrying about breaking off a tail like I do when I hit ruts & moguls w/ a Nitro....If you've ever ridden an original bungee swallowtail... it's that feeling you remember & strive for. Since I can't ride mine except on VERY special occasions, I'd like to come as close to that feeling as conditions will allow.... or I might as well stay home & not be dissapointed....
PS...longer = smoother