Am I the only flier who still likes a slower turning kite that produces power from its grunt as opposed to its speed?

Why is it every kite that is released keeps being promoted as "turning faster" then the previous generation?

Don't get me wrong, I sold my 8.5 Blade III because that was a tank compared to my Bego and I'm not a big fan at all of lumbering kites that are super slow turners but another huge putoff for me is a kite that turns so fast it catches you out.

So I'm wondering, who are the kite makers catering too? Only those who like to kiteloop on every jump or is there some reason that all kites (even kites like the Access) are tuned to turn faster and tighter with every next generation released?

Kites that fly moderately fast with good turn speeds are so much more enjoyable to me then zippy kites that produce more power the faster they (and hence you) go and then catch you out as you redirect them at the end of your run only to watch them fly past the zenith and with an enormous burst of power.

Am I the only one who feels this way or sees this as a negative trend?

Well said B-Roc. Much to be said for stable park and rides. It's why I like my Neos and Phantoms. On a long trip to the shipwreck I can crack a water bottle/ beer, take some photos, maybe answer the phone. If I want to see something turn fast I can feed my Chihuahua some coffee beans.

I'm with ya B-Roc! I like my park and ride in the Flexi - Foot Cruiser while watching the scenery and not having to keep one eye on the kite. Although, I have miss- timed a bunch of turns at our polo field with a Phantom because I run out of room sometimes before the kite decides to come about unless I pre plan a down loop between gusts. :wee:

I think the fact that some people still opt for Synergys over Chargers, says a lot about the fact that you are no alone in your thinking.

While you may want something with more turning speed, it doesn't mean that it should be the sole consideration.

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Originally posted by B-Roc So I'm wondering, who are the kite makers catering too?

Sadly, manufacturers listen to the most vocal and that doesn't always equate to the majority. Unfortunately, kiting isn't the only place this happens. Sometimes, the dog gets wagged by the tail. Sometimes, what suits a team or competition rider doesn't always meet the needs or best interests of the kiting community at large.

ATB,
Sam

I probably tend to fly underpowered compared to a lot of the guys I fly with so I need to work the kite a bit more to get up to speed and I really appreciate a kite that I can loop around quickly to generate power when I need it. I never really liked my Access XC because it was too slow to turn - particularly in the winds that I was comfortable with. Mind you, the 4m XT is nearly too quick to turn in 30 knots. If I can turn something on a wingtip or almost, I'm happy, but I wouldn't want to sacrifice stability to do it.

My perfect kite would turn on a wingtip, park and ride at low speed delivering power without having to work it like a mad thing and sit well forward in the window. And have great depower. Haven't found it yet, but it's a lot fun looking.

I ride Pulse and Synergy on my smaller kites because I fit into that same catagory.
I am however getting to appretiate the sped up nature on my 15m Charger. The 19 also takes best advantage of these qualities. I get it for them!
I have never thought of myself as anything above novice in my skill level and at 52 I'm pretty happy at that! From the bit I see there is a large part of the market who is stuck flying at my level. Unfortunately I think a LOT of folks think they are better than they really are? That combined with the younger wipper loopers entering the sport makes them the target market. Add to the picture that we are considered far away and far behind in the view of the Euro's!
I STILL don't get why PL thought the Charger would be everything to everybody when up until then they had options?

Something I find very interesting out snowkiting is that only about 1/2 of the people are actively trying to jump. MUCH less kiteloop. Yet the kites are geared toward jumpers!

This is why I respect Buggeyed as a partner. He knows he's not into jumping so flies OZ Access. There are choices available in most brands for those who wish to remain earthbound and safe.

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younger wipper loopers

LOL!

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There are choices available in most brands for those who wish to remain earthbound and safe.

True, there are certainly 'less' lifty kites around, but the short time I had with a Manta M3 (which is a reasonable lifty kite) did show me the benefits of having a high aspect depower - it sits so far forward in the window you can eat up the upwind runs and providing you don't take it fast above your head, the lift isn't a problem.

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Originally posted by acampbell If I want to see something turn fast I can feed my Chihuahua some coffee beans.

luckily there is a kite for everyone from all the major brands

you just have to find the one that suits you. tuning also plays a big part to personal use.

my vapors change a lot to where im riding.