So I thought it might be helpful for some people getting into this sport, to write a review and some first thoughts.
To give you a starting point, I have flown so far the HQ Alpha 3.5, Bullet 3.5, Bullet 4.5 and the rage 3.5.
First of all, in low winds this kite is a dream to fly static. It holds the wind well, rises and floats at the zenith without much input from pilot.
It might help at this point if I highlight my experiences with the other kites. For me, the Bullets are a no go kite for a new person unless you want
raw power, and I mean RAW POWER. The 4.5 will pull you clean across a field on your feet/face/bum in very low winds. You only have to dip your toe
into the wind window and it will drag you and I'm not a small person!
The bullet 3.5 is a little tamer but not much, I can stand and fly it in nice winds, though medium winds (15+mph) and I'm back on my arse again.
The Alpha on the other hand is much more controllable for the newer of us to this sport. I can stand and fly that in anything up to about 20 mph.
anything over that and its not really worth flying. its hard to control and pulls far to much unevenly. Though, to learn static flying this is a great
kite (poor design on the kite killers - I've broken 2 already).
Anyway, the reason I bring up these other kites first is to give you an idea of the two extremes of my experiences. Also, a lot of people I've read
posts for want to head into landboarding or the like. The Alpha will not do this. Its far to quick across the window, power is fine but you have to
zip back and forth to keep the power. Take it from me, its just a painful experience.
That brings me on to the rage 3.5.. I'm sure you've heard the story 'Goldilocks and the 3 bears'?
Well this kite is JUUST right.. Slower than the Alpha, it holds the power much better in the power window and is less fiddly on the board. I don't
know why, maybe someone with a little more know how can explain but the slowness helps hold that power much much better.
I've only been out with it twice and I was sailing down the field and some good speed. (dont even think about getting on a board with a 3.5 bullet its
to aggressive).
All in all. I'm a flexifoil fan. Both the bullet and the rage are great for different reasons. If you want to get into landboarding but dont want to
pay for a depower kite. 100% recommend the rage.
If / when I come up with anything else from more flying sessions, I will let you know.
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