What wind range does my 12m kite has? Noticed a lot of better riders on smaller kites, but everyone I spoke to reckons the 12m is perfect size for me. Should I get a smaller kite next or a bigger one for the lower wind?

Sorry, I have a Cabrina Switchblade 12m and weigh 78kgs. I had my first lesson last week at Sandgate. My board is a Recoil 136 Liquid Force. I got up riding first time, but since then had a few face plants. This week been no wind, so frustrating! Thinking of buying a bigger kite!

Tom,

I have not flown the cabs but at your weight i think 12 m would be your biggest you need, I know guys 100 kgs that use 12 meters mostly with twintips on flatwater.

Be patient with your progression and you will know what you need with a future purchase.

stick with the 12, I was managing to get up at brighton on saturday and sunday in between 11 and 14 knots on a 10m and only have about 6 hours of kiting under my belt. Practice and better light wind skills will get you up in 10-12kn

12m switchblade should be plenty for your 78k kegs........Im 100+ and have a 12m, does me fine most of the time. And yes, the season is comming to an end and has been poor, with little or no wind, and very frustrating.
I would recommend holding off on purchasing a second kite untill you get some time on the water under your belt, riding comfortably, staying upwind etc. By this time you should have enough understanding of your needs and some experience to be able to make some sort of informed decision.
Patience Tom, it sounds as though you have only had one lesson, and already got your gear, lack of wind is frustrating, but pick your days and make the most of those opportunities. I doubt anyone here would be advising you to get a bigger kite at this stage......maybe a wetty for the upcomming winter months
Good luck.

Thanks for advice guys. Will hold off buying another for now. Mine is a brand newie but last year's model.

The only difference between last years and this years is that this year they added the spring. I ride a 12m Ralley and the swichblade has heaps more bottom end than my kite. Practice is the key. Have fun.

TomWatt said...

Thanks for advice guys. Will hold off buying another for now. Mine is a brand newie but last year's model.