Tony's (Ral Inn) internet service provider is only providing service when it feels like it
. I forward he's review:
A report on the 8M SL Impact.
By all accounts this maybe the first high wind test of this kite in Australia, with some previous flyers testing it in much lighter winds and trying to imagine it’s topend.
The short answer for its topend is 40kts for me. 95kg wet on an M8 141x41 TT board.
I say 40kts based on being out the previous day at Inverloch. Where the wind meter showed 30kts and regular gusts to 36kts.
Pt Danger on Sunday was more, the lulls were closer to the mid 30’s and at one stage the windage of just the board was forcing me backwards.
The kite looks very stubby sort of retro 2line classic stubby. It does still need plenty of air pressure. The lines at 18m really stick the kite in your face, and response is just plane brilliant.
The New Bar has a Stainless ferule that should work well and reduce line wear. The bar padding has changed to be smooth, not much to say but a change for changes sake maybe.
For me under 30kts (guess) the kite needed working to get me up and going but it is so responsive and agile, this is actually fun, once at speed no problems.
This kite brings back the art of edging and is super reactive to edging, even more fun.
The depower range within the bar travel is the lot. I had the kite fully powered at the strap and the steering line adjustment fully in, and still had slack lines at the last 80mm of bar travel, This being where it would go to Stop&go. At 40kts S&G maybe fine but the drag of the wind just on the leading edge is enough.
When under way the bar going all the way out shuts you down, so after a spin or loop letting go to unspin the lines has to be quick.
The micro harness line is now incorporated in bar, some may like this idea, until the first time you accidentally hook in then find out when you quickly sheet out in a 40+kt bullet. That’s embarrassing.
On waves it is pure indulgent fun. A fast ride along the face turning up then down in quick slalom type riding, just park the kite and let bar go. You are only riding the wave and totally forgetting the kite. Keep one eye on the water ahead as the forgotten kite may eventually come into view. The Short lines make recovery from slack lines so much easier.
Any questions please ask and I’ll describe specifics.
All the hype you have heard is not hype.
As a frestyle kite, yes but for the really hardcore unhooked rubber boned brigade.
For light weight beginners brilliant. And safe.
For waves. A must have. Absolutely a must have. An 8 or 9m could be the only choice for riding waves from say 22kts and above just change board size.
An 8’ mini mal and the 8m could be huge fun in only 20kts.
Those interested in one, there is only one more chance to get an order in before the Northern Hemi season kicks in. then we are put on the backburner.
Best winds
Tony
