The quality of the flexi ion is top notch, so definitely don't rule it out would be fine to learn on and wont hold you back later on. The 2011 vegas is going to be a harder kite to learn on but not impossible if you want to go for a north kite try a rebel or EVO. I haven't had any experience on the c4, but other kites to look at would be any delta kites like the Kahoona or bandit even the new SS rally, or SLE kites like rev's, octanes, cab Switchblades etc.

At the moment a lot of companies are going to be selling last years kites at a bargain price, so for the extra $200-$300 would be worth it or the current Kahoona is very cheap so check them out.

Very good, don't let a shop talk you into a quick sale, get on SB forum and search for some reviews, all last years gear has been tried and we know what's god and whats not. If you cant find a review just ask on the forum and you should get a heap of feedback.

I hope to see some mad youtube vids of you wake skating with a kite once you get the hang of it.