VIC
5 posts
Hi there,
Im just getting into the sport. Is there a problem with buying a repaired kite?
and what should I look for when buying a used kite?
QLD
1326 posts
Repaired kites are a bit like repaired cars. if it small and done by a professional then it will fly exactly the same as it did before but possibly have a visable patch or repair on it. As long as you are OK with that then all is good.
If it is a major repair however then you really cannot know if it has effected the handling and integrity of the kite. It will probably still fly OK, but just may not be quite the same again.
As for a used kite in general, look for one 2008 and onwards, later the better - but be aware of the models that suit beginners. There are plenty of dogs and plenty of advanced kites that will not suit you - even though they may be cheap....
Get advice from your instructor (yes you need lessons), and you won't need kit before getting lessons. If you are looking at buying a kite feel free to post the details here and get advice on it's suitability.
VIC
5 posts
Thanks for the great advice
Im definately gonna wait till iv had a few lessons before i buy
and looking forward to getting into the sport
cheers
NSW
5786 posts
second hand surf specific kites tend to be a bit more flogged than others, even if they are not visibly repaired they may be stretched out of shape due to being pumbled in the waves...
WA
925 posts
HI Braver,
A repaired kite is usually a lot stronger than a normal unrepaire kite, the perception is that a repaired kite is bad, not so if it has been repaired by professionals.
I've seen kites repaired by Neil with massive full length tears and they fly straight and true again. I've never seen a repaired kite tear again in the same spot.
It's a cosmetic thing, many people wont buy a repaire kite, even if it has a small repair. What this means is you can usually pick up a bargain if your less concerned about appearances.
There are other more important things to look out for, like the trailing edge wearing out from flapping or scoring on the leading edge from shells etc.
Check out the condition of lines, if they are all faded and soft as silk, they could indicate the kite has had a long hard life in the elements.
If you have a keen eye and know the gear, you can get some smokin' deals on second hand repaired or otherwise.
Hope this helps,
DM
