Go the $650 REV if you are just starting out, as whatever you buy is going to get a flogging.
The REV is a great kite....its easy to use and pretty tough.
No point spending big dollars just to see your kite get ripped and slammed all over the place.
Dont be too concerned about a few repairs as you will end up with a few more before the end of the season. and they usually dont effect the kite anyway.


After your first season you will find you hardly ever slam your kite. Once you are at this stage spend the money on something in better condition.

I just wish I could have bought a kite as good as the REV when I started out