Sunshine Coast QLD
normaly fly 2002 slingshots (8,12m) 2002 15.5m airush
130x36 twintip 20m lines
11m China Kite
Day 1 5-10 knts
pump up kite and give it the once over
seems well built with all of the current features of a 2004 kite
minor concerns velcro pocket for insertion/removal of main bladder, zip is essential
for surf. Raised seam behind leading edge rubbing on canopy
requires small bar 18"(turns very quickly) well behaved in light conditions.
Day2 15-20knts (gusty at first)
using outermost attachment points the gusty conditions show up the weakness in this design
erratic power, seems to spill out the wind, slight jellyfish woble, kite does not turn progressivly
turn speed increases after starting turn therefore power generated is affected accordingly
mininal feedback as to exactly where the kite is, can get a second lift in a jump if i can get
the kite into the right position (good point!), soft landings difficult due to feedback
problem. Jumped straight on a mates 11M 2004 slingshot to make sure it wasn't just me having a
bad day! ( it wasn't)
switched to the inboard power attachment points BIG improvement felt more like my slingshot
still not getting big airs though! kite now turns slower and more predictable, more noticable
feedback, more usable power. Forget the front power attachment points!!
My opinion for what it is worth (probably bugger all)
GOOD KITE FOR THE MONEY "BUT IT'S NOT A GREAT KITE"
well built, but would benifit from some serious development time it seems a shame because
it's a very average performer. great for a beginer on a budget.
I will stick it out and try again in more constant winds and some fine
tuning.
hopefully the manufacturer will take this for what it is meant to be (CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK)
and improve accordingly, I FULLY SUPPORT THE CONCEPT OF CHINA KITES!!!!!!!!