I'm a beginner to kite boarding, I've had a few lessons to the point where I’m about to get up on the board. I'd like to be able to practice this at on my own. I've got a board and harness already and I’m looking to get a 12m bow kite. I was hoping that somebody can give me a good recommendation on the following 07 kites. I want something that I can learn on, but not grow out of too soon. (Oh and I weigh about 100kg)
* Naish Boxer SLE * North Rebel * FlexFoil Atom * Cabrinha Crossbow (2?) * Cabrinha Switchblade
I'm leaning towards either the Naish Boxer (for its octopus tech) or the North Rebel (nobody's had a bad word to say about this kite)
If ya going to get an 07, from your list, I'd go the Switchblade, Why?, I started out on a 06 switchblade last year and I found it to be a good introduction kite. If you could pick up a good condition used 06, even better.
There is nothing wrong with any of them they are all great kites.
The best way to chose is to have a go on them if you can. If you are still learning get your instructor to give you his opinion on which kite would suit you better.
Matt
PS I would have to recommend the Flexifoil Atom as it is built tough and handles the Victorian conditions well. The kite should grow with you as there are top level guys using the Atom (even the triple world champion has used it in competition).
Yeah def look at the 06 switchblade. So easy to relaunch which is something a progressive newbie is going to need- it’s a really well behaved kite in general, Don’t think the 07 sb's are as good but then haven’t ridden one only know they been designed for wake style more than the original switchblade was designed for the newbie easy flying kite market. Omega I think is what the original sb kite is being replaced by... so if you want new new new perhaps that’s the way to go.... the rebel even though its an awesome kite I think is a bit advanced - can Hindenburg if lines go slack in a botched jump or if your in a wave tumble..although the 10meter rebel is such a sweet kite I try not to fly my 12 meter switchblade at all anymore (actualy havnt flown it since i got the rebel). Just my two cents... best of luck - lots of kites out there they all fly well…