Hi guys. Just a quick question...would you recommended to attach the line extensions that come with the kite (in this case 4m). I understand it gives it more power if you do so, but being a newbie, should I just not worry about it or should I attach them?
Thanks for the help

radman4 said..

Basically your extensions will give you a wider power stroke so in lighter wind situations or when the wind lulls out a little you'll find it easier to work the kite with a bit more torque,it will slow the kite a little but not really enough to worry about,I run my extensions all the time on my 12m and above kites ,also it can smooth out the power delivery and give you a bit more time to react if you screw things up.

when the wind drops off a bit on your next session try the extensions and you will find it will feel like you are powered again (very basic analogy)
You wont find there is too much difference in how the kite flies, as described well in the reply above. so dont freak out, its just a small change, but can be a very good one and make all the difference to your session when the wind is marginal.
I tried them on my 17m and have just left them on even when it picks upto 20kn
kitch

So what's a good length overall for say 15 to 20knots? Is there a calculator out there that would tell you what would be optimal line lengths given wind speeds, and other kite factors (size, shape, rider's weight, etc)? Might have to get the maths myself and make one!

Kazan said..

So what's a good length overall for say 15 to 20knots? Is there a calculator out there that would tell you what would be optimal line lengths given wind speeds, and other kite factors (size, shape, rider's weight, etc)? Might have to get the maths myself and make one!

kite/size/your weight?

Kazan said..

So what's a good length overall for say 15 to 20knots? Is there a calculator out there that would tell you what would be optimal line lengths given wind speeds, and other kite factors (size, shape, rider's weight, etc)? Might have to get the maths myself and make one!

Every kite is different. If the kite co. has done its R&D as it should then it will release the kite with the appropriate length lines for that particular kite & size of their own design.
Adding extensions to a well balanced standard issue length will increase the bottom end, make it fly slower, etc etc.
But dont be fooled into thinking that just because your choice of kite comes with 20M lines that it will make it the equivalent of your mates kite that comes with 23M lines.
Extensions should be just what they say they are - extra length ( to any standard length) to make your kite work a little better when the day isnt providing quite enough power.