quote:
Originally posted by di
just wondering can some one tell me what kind of wind range will a 12mt kite have for a 85kg person?
G'day Di
If you are looking at starting out, you need to know a couple of things about kite types.
Basically there are 2 types, C and Bow/Flat/SLE kites.
A 12m C shape will fly ok from approx 8-10knots, but you will need 12/13 knots to start using it in the water for body dragging, but you will only go downwind on it in those light winds. You will need approx 14/15 knots to get up on a board and ride across or upwind, and while you are learning, when it gets to around 19/20 knots you will not be comfortable on it, but as your experience increases you will be able to handle it to approx 23-25 knots.
A bow/flat/sle will fly from approx the same wind strength, but you will be able to use it to get up on a board and ride downwind from approx 12/13 knots, and you will be comfortable on it until approx 20-25 knots, and maybe a bit more once you are experienced.
Be careful buying anything older than 2003, make sure the safety system is working or is included. Avoid kites with large repairs in the leading edge bladder.
Cya and
Goodwinds
Steve McCormack
Depends a lot on the type though, and also what kind of board you have, and of course your skill level in higher winds 
