You have kind of answered your own question.

Kitable wind strengths are generally considered to be 12kts to mid 30s, but not with the same kite. Kiting outside that range is possible but only with the right gear and skill.

Most kites will have a usable wind range of around 12-14kts, with some exceptions either side of that, although the sweet spot is generally a 6-8kt window and outside of that if want to be at peak performance you need to change a size.

K Dog said...

What sort of wind range do kites have? Can you go out for a bash in 10 knots.... and be out there at 30+?

The size of the kite depends on the conditions (wind speed), the experience and weight of the kiter, and the type of board being used.
Assuming a 'standard' twin-tip that's appropriate for the riders weight...
A beginner 80kg rider can safely use a 12 m kite for ~15-20kn.
An intermediate 80kg rider can safely use a 12m kite for ~15-25kn.
An intermediate 50kg rider can safely use the same 12m kite from ~13-20kn.
An advanced 80kg rider can use (not necessarily safely) a 12m kite in 13-30kn.

Each kite has it's own wind range so even my example of a 12m kite will vary greatly depending on the specific make and model of the 12m kite.

Ideally when you start out you get lessons with a school so they can put you on the perfect sized kite and board to make the most of the exact conditions you get on the day. This means that your safe, in control and will make the most of your time on the water and the money your spending on your lessons.

Once you've had a few lessons and you have your own gear (assuming 1 kite, 1 board), then your instructor will be able to tell you what wind range and conditions you want to learn in. Attempting to learn underpowered is a very common mistake with beginners and will end in frustration, kites falling from the sky and potentially bystanders or other kiters being injured. Attempting to learn overpowered is even more dangerous as everything happens faster and far more violently.

If in doubt - don't go out!

K Dog - you're a pole dancer, you should pretty much know the pros and cons.

Biggest positive is ease of minimal (and light) gear and fast rpogression once past the initial steep curve. You can be on the water in 5mins from the car if you are quick. Perhaps less.

Cons are few, but mainly revolve around those bloody lines and safety early on. You definately need more room than a windsurfer.

You can set up anywhere you can pump up a kite, and if minimal room may have to perfect water launches. You obviously need enough room to pump up the kite and run the lines, but as long as you can manage to get clear of downwind obstructions you are OK.

i used to be a poley
the big advantage initially with kite surfing is its way more portable
if you actually want to take the family on holidays with you there is room
the mistake i made was thinking that because i could sailboard i understood the wind for kiting
if you're thinking about doing it go buy a 4 line trainer kite and spend some time understanging the wind window and developing your muscle memory
i found kitesurfing is much more rewarding in a shorter timeframe which is helped further now with the improvements in kite design / safety over the past 3 years.
It is also very addictive and that is probably why it is becoming so popular
The safety aspect of the sport also encorouges everyone to assist each other as things can go wrong for any of us and to ensure beach access is not banned most are proactive in helping others
please make sure you get lessons on safety as it will ultimately save yourself or a spectactor or unsuspecting child