OK We are well into the season now and the Flat kites have been around for a while now so I think its time to dissect some of the information getting around. Two points first though.
1- This isn't meant to be a Bow versus C thread just an attempt to clear up some differences.
2- This is obviously my point of view and not everybody will agree.
SAFETY I continually get people telling me that a flat kite is safer than a C kite. The truth is that if you put a kite in the power it will drag you, no matter what style of kite it is. Just last week we had a bow kiter flung up the beach with the only thing stopping him being his kite in the trees. The real advantage with the bows is being able to sheet the kite enough to prevent too much pull when you inadvertently put it in some power. This also helps to prevent lofting if the kite is above your head on the beach. Many users will like the fact that if they release the bar the kite will depower but remember this only works if you actually let go of the bar and if your stopper ball is disengaged. Its human nature to hang on for dear life when you start to lose control.
The major downside to the Bows in regards to safety is there is no backup safety if the depower doesn't work and I have personally seen this a couple of times. No flat kite kills as much of the power through the safety as a 5 line kite, period.
Ease of learning Yes we have found that generally the Flat kites are easier to learn on. The total control over the power of the kite makes it easier to keep the kite power within the realms of your ability. Some learners can have issues with keeping them in their sweet spot though and in these instances a C kite will provide an advantage.
They jump higher?Well I'm yet to see that. Its difficult to gauge as 90% of jumping is the kiters ability. At this stage I still believe a high aspect C kite and an experienced rider will gain you more hight From my experience with all forms of traction kites including foils is that within a couple of years development some of the more specific Bows will definitely be higher jumpers.
They have a larger wind range. Absolutely true!! At this stage there is no C kite that will get you out in as wide a wind range as a Supported Leading Edge kite. However this is mostly due to the extra bottom end power in the kite as there are C kites available with easily as much depower as a Flat kite.
Bows are heavier on the bar Damn straight they are! Although one brand is almost as light as the C's.
Bows relaunch easier In most conditions yes but in some tidal and surf conditions I have seen kiters have some issues.
Conclusion No doubt there will be a lot of people that disagree with my views but that is what its all about. As will always be the case in kiteboarding "ask 10 people about a kite and get 30 different answers"
If you are a learner go with the style and features you think you will like, be happy with your decision and get out there. After all being out there is more important than worrying about the technical aspects of your equipment.
If you are already a C kite rider, I definitely recommend trying a Flat kite before making the switch, but don't judge them in one 30min session as it may take a while to adjust your riding style before you enjoy them.
Jason
www.briskites.com.au/
