I know a lot of people are into the hybrid/flat/SLE whatever you want to call them kites. But I'm not converted yet. So for all out there that are still riding "C's" or still taking a sideways look (or backwards depending on opinion) then this review is for you.

I have been with the reactor since it's first year on the market, and quite frankly, haven't flown anything that has warranted me to change. The main reason being the all round excellence.

the 07' is:

1. Riding unhooked - fast and powerful, yet doesn't pull like a steam train (less power towards the edge of the window. Kitelooping is the rush it's meant to be, great pull and speed.

2. Relaunching - I have not found a kite that re-launches as quickly and consistently as a 5 line- "C" set up. I'm back going quickly after a crash and without hastle. Essential for a competition heat (if you are so inclined)

3. Wind range - Full de-power is all the "fashion" at the moment and the wind range of the flatter style kites is their big plus. But I am yet to find that the reactor is hard to handle in strong/gusty winds. Maybe it's because I am used to them, but the 07 is different and easy to rest in the water with it parked.

4. The proof is in the pudding - the mark of a kite that is great for any rider (and the choice is individual) is what happens to your riding almost immediately upon riding. That is, does your riding actually improve as a result of the kite. I can happily say that mine has just shot into the next level for me. Again, this is an individual thing, but if your kiting doesn't progress, and that can be comfort, technique, simple feel and many other factors that are personal; then you are flying the wrong kite for where you are at.

It could be that the tuning isn't right for you or the power isn't what you are used to but in my opinion, if you don't like the feel of the ride after a few hours. Then it's time to try something else.

So back to the reactor 07' - I know the feel of this kite from 05/06 models and I noticed a couple of things with the 07. firstly the power delivery is similar to the old models but seems to be smoother and a little better (maybe slower) for my reflex system, when sheeted out on a moderate chicken loop (basic set-up out of the bag) the power is non existent when parked above, or bar let out. I guess a flat kite comparison would be full de-power?. Well it's not full depower on the reactor, but it's a lot more than on the older models and for me, is ample I don't need anymore depower than this kite allows.

The bar set-up is a marked improvement on the older models with very,very smooth running of lines on re-launch which has just raised my confidence in going for tricks to a new level. I can simple crash time after time after time and be up and going in seconds. I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to have a kite that re-launches quickly and easily. A big thumbs up to the boys at airush for this.

So there you have it. If you can get one good luck!.

P.S. I have flown enough flatter kites with briddles to make a choice from my perspective. I have nothing against the flatter kites, I just don't like what I have ridden with all the aspects I find important to test for. (yet)

Jim,
I'm 77kg and use mainly a 9m and 12m. The wind range on the 9m for me is roughly 18knots - 25knots, above that, the depower affects turning too much.

With the 12m I get going in 13 knots but struggling to stay upwind when doing tricks. I ride through to about 20 knots but again it's depowered too much for the session to be fun.

I don't use a wind meter and go by what I "feel" the wind is like so I hope this gives you a rough idea.