Trimming is what you do when you fly kite, when you push the bar out you lengthen the rear lines, which effectively shortens the front lines (in comparison to the rears). Vice versa, so you are always actively trimming the kite.

When you use the trim system (otherwise known as the depower or power straps/cleat) you are simply limiting how far the trim of the bar can affect the kite.

In stronger winds you pull in on the "depower" trim strap, this shortens the front lines, and allows you to reach the bar again and ride in a comfortable, non "poo stance", understand?

Always adjust your trim before entering the water. EVEN IN LIGHTER WINDS.

Easy rule of thumb is:

Fly your kite at the aedge of the window at 45 degrees.

Pull the bar all the way in.

If the kite stalls (flies backwards) pull the trim strap (depower) in until the kite cannot stall.

Go kiting!!!

You may have to make smaller adjustments during your day.

REMEMBER:

IF YOUR KITE STALLS YOUR TRIM IS SET INCORRECTLY.

Incorrect trim setting is the major cause of stance problems. Especially for girls and those with shorter than average arms.

GRunner said...

I found adjusting the trim to 'depower' caused the kite to become less responsive. Have I trimmed too far? Also the knot settings on the wing tips are set on the 3rd knot in low wind and the 1st knot in high winds. Is this right or should I use the middle knot and use the trim strap?

Forget the knots, they are a completely stupid and unnecessary addition on modern high depower kites.
Set the lines on the middle knots all the time, then use the trim strap oir cleat to adjust the trim when you are riding.
You cannot really adjust the trim of the kite on the beach, for a comfortable riding position.
Only adjust the trim on the beach to allow you to comfortably steer the kite, then get in the water and attempt to ride or ride.
If you are bending forwards too much and getting the poo man stance, there are usually other causes. You need to stop pulling on the bar so much and let the pull of the kite be taken by the harness hook. You just "hang off" the centre lines and lean back, if you find yourself being pulled forwards when you are riding upwind, THEN you should depower the kite, other wise push harder with you legs and edge more, maintaining that "hanging" off the centre lines posture.

Incorrect trim setting is the major cause of stance problems. Especially for girls and those with shorter than average arms.