QLD
5 posts
Hi, just chasing some info. i have had a couple of lessons on the gold coast, and are now ready to start to practice on my own. im on a 12m cabrinha switchblade and weigh 87kg. What is the best wind range for me to be out practicing in???? Any advice would be great. thanks
QLD
409 posts
IMO you should get going in about 12-14knots (depending on board size) once you have your light wind technique sorted but the lack of power in this wind while learning could hold you back a bit.
You would probably find 15-18knots optimum for learning though on a 12m at your weight. Suggest maybe a 140-148 tt initially which you'd keep as a light wind board for later on.
This is based on my 62kegs on a 10m Switchy, hope it helps
QLD
699 posts
I have a 14 mtr switchblade and weigh just over 80kgs. For me the best winds were between 15 and 20knots, with gusts in 2 to 4 knot range. That was my limit. I went out on 25knots one day and was almost lofted. So a 12mtr, you would need something above 15knots to practice with and 22+knots one you have a hang of it (pun not intended).
WA
3619 posts
Never discount the value of body dragging if the wind just isnt playing.
As a newbie you can learn as much about kite flying skill by body dragging when its not enough to lift you as you can on the board.
Dont sit in the carpark waiting.
Time-on-water = T-O-W = board time or dragging time.
Remember too that as skills increase so does the wind range of your kite. So the wind you are body dragging in today may well be the same wind you can be up on your board tomorrow.
Its all about skill with the kite.
