The the link is a nasty kite. Some people liked it, but it is definitely not a kite to learn with. The link is very difficult to fly , and in my experience very unstable.

I would say without question that you are hindering your learning curve by using this kite. I am surprised you can actually give them away these days.

Do your self a favor. Try someone else's kite for 5 minutes. See what you think.

and make sure you have the red bridal on the kite. If not let me know - I have a spare one.

Slingshot only release one version of the link, then scrapped it because it was so cr.ap.

By all means harden up, but ditch the kite. Any kite from 08/09 onwards will be in another world to learn on compared to an 06/07, especially one as infamous as the Link.

There are plenty of kites that are easy to learn on to be had second hand for $600 or less. Check the buy and sell here.

1adsy said...

hey all
really searching for some advice if any ones able.

I'm learning on a slingshot link 06/07 9m
had a couple of lessons and am now just up on the board, (it aint pretty)
I'd like to think I'm pretty harmless out there and do my best to keep out of the way and create as little grief as possible.
I ve been told my kites an old rag and should get something more friendly especially for learning.
I can fly it OK dragging and board retrieval ( which is where I spend alot of my time) and even manage the odd water relaunch!
I must admit if you take your eye off it it will smack you soon as look at you.
Will it make that much difference going newer at this stage of my kookness, or should I just harden up and take the wackins.

thanking you in anticipation of your wisdom

At least your honest and I like that.

If you can afford it then an upgrade to a >2009 kite would progress you faster and most importantly safer. Where are you located.??? If your in WA then give me a shout.

The 9m Stink was much better than the 12m so it could be worse.
The main issue is you are a beginner and that is where it's problems come to the forefront.

First thing I would recommend is remove all of the canopy batons from the kite except for a couple near the wing tips. This will both lighten the front of the kite and add a little drag at the edges to prevent it over flying when you make a mistake.

Ok I,ve heeded all advice but that thing collapsing and falling out of the sky again while everyone else is having a great old time has really made my mind up.
I'm sure someone with seasoned ability could fly it well but its just breaking my b**ls and before it turns me off this amazing sport that I just gotta get into, some hard decisions must be made.
She's gotta go .
I'm getting a newy
what do I need for Perth Pinnas
I'm thinking of staying 9 ish
Vario 10 perhaps
Rev 2 or maybe even a new rally.
I'm getting loads of different stories from different people.
I.m a kook that wants to get better on a good easy flyer, easy launcher, I dont want to hit anything hardcore for quite a few years. I just want a quiet life and fun on kite when the wind is blowing.
I will also be using it alot at Augusta as well which should be critical in my choice.E
Either 1 x new boy or maybe a couple of 09's> for a decent quiver.
Any Help wpould be greatly appreciated
Cheers all

1adsy said...

Ok I,ve heeded all advice but that thing collapsing and falling out of the sky again while everyone else is having a great old time has really made my mind up.
I'm sure someone with seasoned ability could fly it well but its just breaking my b**ls and before it turns me off this amazing sport that I just gotta get into, some hard decisions must be made.
She's gotta go .
I'm getting a newy
what do I need for Perth Pinnas
I'm thinking of staying 9 ish
Vario 10 perhaps
Rev 2 or maybe even a new rally.
I'm getting loads of different stories from different people.
I.m a kook that wants to get better on a good easy flyer, easy launcher, I dont want to hit anything hardcore for quite a few years. I just want a quiet life and fun on kite when the wind is blowing.
I will also be using it alot at Augusta as well which should be critical in my choice.E
Either 1 x new boy or maybe a couple of 09's> for a decent quiver.
Any Help wpould be greatly appreciated
Cheers all

Rev1 is a great kite too. At your skill level, you will not be able to feel the difference between a rev1 and rev2. BUT, depending on your kite skill level, the 9m revs are juiced up rockets and may be too fast for your liking. The 11m revs are perfect tho. The Octanes are very similar to the Revs.
If you want to stick to Slingy, check out the T3, Key HD or the Rally

Plenty of other good kites around too. Crapinha switchblades, crossbows ect. North Rebels, Evos
Best Waroo, Kahoona

Plenty more around too. If you buy 08 onwards you generally cant go wrong.

have fun!

you would have been such a better kiter if you'd stuck with the link