Kitehard said...

I do not teach downwind because the wind is too strong in WA and I don't have 30 minutes to untangle lines that are being blown back at me when I'm walking them out. Down wind is easier to explain to noobs, easier to run out (with the wind) and you can just as easily check by pulling the bridles out in front of the kite.

Aye, confusing alright. Do you teach downwind, or do you not teach downwind?

Kitehard said...

Most lines are kook proof these days so screwing it up takes an effort.

Yet I still manage to do it regularly, even after 4 years kiting. You don't need to tell me, I know I'm good.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, how I know I screwed up my lines is that I check them. I could even check them seven times by the time Funky has checked his though, seriously man, I've known dead people who move faster than you .

For the record I prefer the sidewind method, not only does it mean less hassles at crowded launches and time saved for the launcher, I like the fact that one does not drag ones lines over the beach and potentially pick up twigs or seaweed or stuff in the process. Just pick up the bar and launch the kite from where you are. Also good for self launching.

Not sure if I agree with the whole wind problem of rigging downwind. I have kited at langebaan, Cape town, winds get up to 40 knots +. Your kite creates a small wind shadow at the beginning when you start your lines so they don't blow downwind and by the time you get a little way down, its okay.

Now, it may start to be an issue over 35 or 40 knots, but what beginning is going to be riding in those conditions anyway?