We have just finished an Iko training course in Mui Ne, Vietnam and our next stop will be Sandy Bay for all of September. I was wondering if anyone could help me with some information on kite size for Sandy Bay. Im 80Kg and Sandys 55Kg and I'm assuming winds will be around 12 to 20knots. So I'm thinking a 7m and 10m or 8 and 12m with a 1.3 and a 1.4m board. I'm looking at maybe a Cabrinha Switchblade 2009 - 2012 model. Any opinions out there. Peter
Im 95kG and have a 2012 switchblade 12mtr. The SB feels larger than a 12 and I get a little over powered above 20knots so you at 80 might be better one size down. Having said that if the wind is in the 15 to 16 more often then not, than you would be fine. Iv just got a 2012 SB 9mtr for the 20s to 28s but its still in the bag!!
IMO id go for a 10 or 11 and a 8, and later a 14 so your wife will fly the 10 on light winds while your on the 14 and when its pumping your on the 8.
Also i have a 2010 underground stella 144x146 for light winds "love it" good 1st board. I hear the 2012 is better. I also have a 136 crypt that i also love but it is very stiff and also a bit wet as well. to big for you and not great in chop
Consider the drifter as it might be a better 1st kite with lower bar pressure and very forgiving in the air. "iv never flown it but im considering it for myself"
Hope you have a great time!!
Disclosure - kiting for 18mths, second kite, kite in Brisbane = Gusty
Hi Laurie Thanks for that, being September and the beginning of the season would you expect 25knots or is that being optimistic?
Hi Wldistel Good information, thank you. I looked at the drifter but still new so not many second hand ones around. Also being a surf kite I lack experience to know how this would work for rank beginners like us. A lot of info on the swithchblade for beginners. Trying to keep the price down at the moment so have not gone into the different boards yet just looking at some cheap second hand ones. Later on we will possibly go smaller and better quality. Hopefully wont have a detrimental effect on our learning.
It really depends on the year what sort of winds to expect. It could be pushing 30 most days or even only 15 in years like last year. But with kites between 8 and 12m you should be but your missus may get over cooked in the arvos. Also Laurie september is the start of the turtlehunting season so I will be around.
Hi Turtlehunter Sounds like I'm on the right track. If I get a couple of hours most day I will be pleased. Hi Wldistel I think you are right, that one with a 7m for Sandy would be good. Still in Vietnam back in June so will see whats available then. Thanks
I've had everything from 0 to 40 knots up there, but always hope for a steady 25. You never know, so take whatever you can.
