Which Kite :
If you are interested in traction related activities, then I would recommend a four line traction kite. These ram-air foils typically surpass all other types of kites in terms of ease of use, efficiency, power and are virtually indestructible. Ram-air foils are made entirely of material and generally have no spars to break. They consist of a top and bottom surface which are joined by vertical ribs. They have an opening at the leading edge (the front) which allows the kite to inflate and form an aerofoil shape. A bridle system consisting of an intricate arrangement of lines holds the kites shape once inflated.
Modern kites are generally made from Chikara or a similar high grade material. However if you are buying second hand, find out what the kite is made from before you make the purchase. Nylon kites are cheap but will absorb large amounts of water. If it rains or you crash the kite onto a wet beach the kite will become heavy and difficult to fly.
Icarex is a polyester based material so will not absorb water, however is prone to abrasion and will not last as long as you would like. Icarex kites also tend to be expensive due to the high cost of the material. The best one to go for is Chikara. The majority of modern kites currently available are made out of high quality material, so if you are looking at getting one of these, you don't have to worry.
The four line traction kite has two lines to the bridle at the front (leading edge) and two lines to the bridle at the rear (trailing edge). The front lines or power lines take the majority of the strain and allow the kite to be steered left and right. The lines to the rear bridle are called the brake lines. These can be used to depower the kite or even fly it in reverse if required. By using a combination of inputs to these four lines the kite can be made to turn much quicker and allow much greater precision in the kite's movements.
These four lines generally attach to two handles (we will ignore bar setups). A power line and brake line from the same side of the kite connect to the same handle. Co-ordination of the handles in relation to the kite's movements comes with practice.
Kite selection :
The most important decision you need make is which kite is best suited for you and to your chosen activity. It is the kite that provides the traction which will pull you along; there are a large array of makes, types and sizes. Many of the latest kites are reviewed here on this website, www.racekites.com - make sure you read as many as possible. The more knowledge you have, the easier it will be to choose.
A few flyers when starting out unfortunately feel that they have to somehow prove themselves and purchase a kite which is wholly inappropriate. Please don't let this be you. Advice can be gained from retail outlets, however, be sure that their recommendations goes along with your research and guidance received from fellow kiters.
This guide tries to offer impartial advice from experienced kiters. As you are probably already aware, there are several kite websites which also host message boards. The knowledge base on these sites is usually good; however, an air of caution is always advised.
When you are starting out or moving from stunt kites to traction kites just two simple rules you will help you make the best choice when choosing your new kite.
- Do not buy a high performance race kite.
- Do not buy a kite which has an area greater than 4m
There are many companies which now make traction kites and I don't really want to recommend any particular one. Some are cheap and cheerful while others are expensive with excellent build quality. As always, you get what you pay for. Many stores stock a variety of makes and models. If possible find a store which will let you try before you buy.
Read the reviews on this website, www.racekites.com, these reviews are written by the people who fly the kites, not the people that make them. Then make your own decision based upon your budget.
As a beginner, you can't go far wrong by getting a kite from either Flexifoil or Ozone. These two companies have excellent build quality,with a substantial range of kites available. For now, avoid high performance kites whilst learning and don't get anything bigger than 4m in area. Even though high performance kites appear attractive, they are much more difficult to fly.
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