Forums > Kitesurfing Foiling

Line length for a beginner

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Created by warwickl > 9 months ago, 6 Sep 2017
warwickl
NSW, 2173 posts
6 Sep 2017 5:29PM
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I started foiling towards the end of summer and was progressing ok using 24m lines on both strut and strutless kites.
I have now started back foiling again with 20m lines and not getting the basics right of even getting up on the board.
So for a beginner is there a line length that works best in light wind and different in stronger wind? Maybe I just need to be more patient?

weebitbreezy
617 posts
6 Sep 2017 5:43PM
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I think its nearly always easier with longer lines. The longer power stroke means you can use a smaller kite. You only really need a powerful kite to get going. I prefer 26-28m lines and yep, I notice its more difficult if I forget to take my line extensions.

I think its only the racers who use short lines. Everyone else uses longer lines as you can use a smaller kite which is better/easier once you are going.

jamesperth
WA, 610 posts
7 Sep 2017 10:05PM
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I ride freeride foil and normally ride 27m. In light winds I use 36m.

I keep 3 bars setup with 21/26/36m lines. It's much quicker to change lines than change kites if need be.

KiteBud
WA, 1515 posts
8 Sep 2017 8:55AM
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It's important to know what's your own definition of ''light wind'' as everyone has a different perspective on this. On twin tips, most people say it's light wind when it's below 18 knots. On hydrofoils, light winds are probably better defined as winds below 12 knots.

In my personal experience, I use regular 24m lines in anything at or above 15 knots. From 12 to 15 knots I might go for the long lines or stay with short lines, it depends. However, at 12 knots or Below I systematically go for long (thin race) lines (35m)

The key is to experiment, there is no right or wrong here

Christian

RAL INN
VIC, 2880 posts
8 Sep 2017 5:28PM
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I would recommend 27-28m as a go to length going shorter for freeride foiling just seems unco in comparison

warwickl
NSW, 2173 posts
8 Sep 2017 5:44PM
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Thanks for the comments .
The reason I asked is when I started I was on 24m lines now using 20m and finding coordination starting not as easy including getting up on board.
While it could be just me I thought I would check.
Now set up back at 24m but may add on a spare bar which I can do 26m.
Prior to attempting foiling I always used 20m lines on strapless surfboard.



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"Line length for a beginner" started by warwickl