Hi guys

I'm pretty new to kitesurfing but I've had a bit of experience with power kites using Flexifoil blades III's

I'm in a position where I have to decide between a Naish Torch 14 metre or the current Naish Boxer 14 metre with 5th line??

Does anyone have any suggestions on what I get? (I think Im gonna be into big air/hang time)

Keeping in mind that I think I will have a faster rate of progression then most newcomers to the sport as I've been into the scene for awhile now and have experience flying powerkites.

cheers

mick
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Hey thanks for that response.

I am leaning towards a Torch although the Boxer is meant to be better in hang time. I like the fact that it has the octopus inflation system.

I think that when I master either the Torch or Boxer I will get something like a Raven.

Alot of people say that for someone knew Im better off getting a Boxer over the Torch but Im still interested to see what everyone here has to say about that? Has anyone tried out either of these kites?

cheers

Mike
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Mike,
I have flown the entire Naish range. My person opinion is that the Boxer is completely marketed the wrong way. I found the boxer to be a far better kite than the torch. I found that the torch sits too far back in the window and results in being really hard to pull forward to the window and reduces up wind ability.

In jumping, it sits out there further and getting it over head to generate the upward lift is really hard work. The Boxer doesn't have this it's smooth overhead and upwind ability is excellent.

The naish SS bar and lines set up is the best fifth line system I have used. Although turning the quick release around on the leash so that you pull towards you to release is advisable, again just my opinion.

I found that the spider inflation system is really convenient, but didn't keep all of the struts inflated all of the time when letting the kite down. The valves on the kites I used didn't work so well. I would personally not rely on the struts staying up if the leading edge is deflated. Living where I do and the safety of having the struts fully inflated is essential when out at sea with a blown leading edge as just one example.

it's your choice, but my opinion is the best kite in the naish range for all levels is the Boxer, experts included.

My person opinion is to investigate other brands as well.

Hi there,

Do Not Buy a Torch!!!!!!! After having flown one and comparing it against some of the new seasons kites that are just about to be released I would not touch one. They are very sluggish and provide v.little boost. Flew some very nice 5 line slingshots and some proto type Wipika's and both these kites had a fantastic feel, turn and boost.

Wait a while and have a fly of some other brands before you commit.

:) Cheers

i like them both - i still ride my co2 most of the time, but in stronger winds is when i'm on the 9m boxer - had some good fun on that kite so far.

WOW!

thanks for all the info guys it's really helpful. After getting some more info im now leaning towards the current 14 metre boxer with a 5th line attached. The Current torch has come down in price its nearly the same price as the current Boxer with 5th line. So I was a bit confused with what I should get.

(someone asked that I didn't mention how heavy I am - I am about 80kgs)I've been informed that a 14metre is a good size for the areas that Ill be flying which is Brisbane/Moreton Bay area. I have the ability to also travel around a fair bit so Im also keen to try all the best spots when Im up and flying.

The new Torch sounds really good but I might just be happy with the Boxer to start with and use that for awhile. Some of the more experience kitesurfers still use their Boxers and seem happy with them. When I get better and actually know what kind of board I like. (At the moment I've just settled with the current 135cm 2005 Thorn). I'll pick out another kite and begin my collection like everyone else!. I might go for something like the Raven which others are Ravin about!

The bottom line is that I've heard of no real complains about the current 2005 Boxer with 5th line. Everyone says they are great. Perhaps the new Torch will be alot more tweaked up and be something to get in the future.

Thanks for all the info guys. If there is more info or suggestions please feel free to reply back I'm only happy to hear what you have to say.

Cheers

Mike
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Thanks Danza.

Did you learn on the current Boxer?

Alot of people are telling me that if I want the Torch I should just get the NEW Torch and forget last seasons. I am getting the Current Boxer with the 5th line attached but I think it'd be nice to have the octopuss inflation system.

Has anyone gone from a Torch/Boxer to a Raven recently?

cheers

Mike
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Has anyone tried the New 2005 135 Naish Thorn?