WA
72 posts
Hey all, I am a little unsure what size kites I would ideally need for the maximum wind range. I kite in the Perth area.
My weight at the moment is 83kg, I currently ride a 136 board though will be updating when I get more advanced probably around a 130.
I have at the moment a size Nitro 10 and Fuel 13 but thinking of replacing the 13 with a 14 to give more variety from the 10. This now leaves the ideal kite size for the lighter winds?
So my questions would be:
Do you think the 10 and 14 are good sizes for a medium to strong wind?
What size light wind lite would suit me?
What light wind kite works best? (Contra, Fuel/Machine, Phoenix)?
Any information/guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks all.
WA
90 posts
I weigh around 78 kilos, and currently ride a 10 and 14 combination of airush flows. I find the 14 metre gets me out in anything from 11 knots. So i would recommend just getting a 14 and see how you go.
The contra's say they can get you going from 5- 10 knots. im some what sceptical at this claim although i havent ridden one. But just imagine being half a K out to sea and trying to relauch a 16 + metre kite in 5- 10 knots, i reackon it would be pretty difficult
WA
72 posts
Thanks Geeza, I was out the other week in about 8-11kts and the Fuel really stuggled to get me going though occasionally the wind picked up and I was OK. However there was another kiter similar build to me on an 18m Airush and he was having no difficultly infact having a ball I would say.
I reckon I need about 15kts to get me going on the Fuel 13m, 14m may bring that down a little.
So would an 18m or 19m be a good choice for 8-11kts?
WA
859 posts
devide your weight by 7, what you get will be your kite size in 15kts... then you can work it out from there if other sizes are required...
regards browneee
WA
206 posts
Hung Long,
I'm not sure you're divide by 7 thing is accurate. At 58kg that would have me riding an 8m in 15 knots. Admittedly I have done this but totally underpowered, with a big board for my size, and working hard. I guess if underpowered riding is your thing it could work for the masses, but not for fun powered riding...?
Jess
WA
72 posts
I'd actually agree with you Jess, my weight by 7 says I should be on a 12m but I'm sure I need 15kt+ for my 13m. My theory for my weight is:
10m - 20-30kts
13m - 16-23kts (soon to be 14m - 14-21kts)
? - 5-15kts
Unsure on what though for the lighter winds, I'm leaning towards an 18-20m
TAS
423 posts
You should call in and see Jess at Airborne Kitesurfing or check out the "Used and Specials" list at www.airbornekitesurfing.com.
One of the best light wind kites I have ever flown is the Lift Pro 19.5, they are now $999 NEW.
Or a bit cheaper a second hand 15.5 Lift Pro $300
Or second hand 16m or 20m Lift 2002 $400
It seems a lot of guys are now sitting on the beach when a cheap big kite will get them more water time.
Ian.
WA
72 posts
I might do that this week, cheers.
