SA
202 posts
Hi peeps, new to sport, Luv it, 4 lessons, and now 4 sessions with own gear, up on board and just starting to Carve up wind, less gear to rig up than windsurfing, anyhoo, i believe the leading edge and kite lines are responsible for the "flight" of the kite, so if the leading edge is not fully inflated , 70% (due to slow annoying leak) how does this affect the flight? or is it not an issue because the lines keep the kite in the correct shape when in flight? I know the leading edge is inflated to keep it out of the water, but important for it to be fully inflated for flight?
WA
321 posts
Yes, having the right pressure in your LE is important, while bridles etc. help to support the LE, generally the LE is still a structural component in the kite.
If you watch carefully with an underinflated kite the canopy will distort when turning (it does this anyway but will be pronounced) making the kite slower to turn and it will deliver less power (distortion in the canopy = lower projected area = less power when in the power zone). There's probably more to this but there's a few thoughts hope they are helpful.
SA
202 posts
well done Bluey, in a nutshell. Ta.
QLD
209 posts
yes it does make a difference, kite bladder repair shop expect between $10 to $20 dollar charge much cheaper than tearing your kite in half
QLD
593 posts
one of the tests for if your kite is pumped up proper is to try and bend the LE. If you can~t then it~s ready.
So if you can bend the kite, the wind can definitely bend and mis-shape it , an make it fly like a turd on a line
