| Kitesurfing Forum
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stepheng
Posts:2
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| 01/24/2007 10:40 AM |
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Hey there, i'm Steve, and am getting into this sport now full swing. My only concern is I know very little about it, and I fear salesman take the piss because of it.
I was at a shop yesterday in Durban, to get an old 5meter Nash kite repaired, and was basically talked into buying a 14meter Cabrinha Nitro 2005 model, for R1300. Now in my mind this was a good deal, since new kites are far higher than that, and for starting out, thats not a lot to spend.
I've only just started and haven't had a chance to use the kite yet (a bit daunting because of its size), but I have used the 5meter, and my brothers 11meter, just to pull myself in the waves and on the beach. I weigh about 93 kilos but the 11 meter can throw a person around without any effort.
Is the 14meter overkill (considering our winds down here don't really exceed 20 -30knots - uneducated guess), and wouldn't it be wiser to learn on something smaller at first?
Whats the kite size to weight ratio, and is this kite any good for my needs? I'm really looking to jump, and freestyle, not really big into wave riding.
Any advice would be appreciated, thanks in advance...
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Sports
Posts:14
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| 01/24/2007 7:53 PM |
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Stephen,
Sounds about right for your needs in Durban. New 2005 model kites go for R2500, new 2006 models for R3500 and new 2007 models for R6000, so R1300 is a good deal if the kite is in good condition.
It does sound like you need to take a lesson or two before heading out on your own.
Regards,
Shaun
CAUTION KITES
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stepheng
Posts:2
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| 01/25/2007 8:25 AM |
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Thanks Shaun
The kites in excellent condition so I'm happy with the purchase. Lessons, yeh I think so, but they're quite expensive and I've seen a few instructional videos but obviously in practice things are a little different. I'm familiar with the basics on how to setup and launch the kite, aswell as just playing around with it in the surf, but as far as launching into the surf with a board, experience = 0
I'm keen to just try in a lagoon somewhere first, just to get the hang of how the kite works with the board, and then progress later to the surf. The guy who sold me the kite also didn't quite know how to work the recon system on the bars, so theres another lesson i'm going to need... |
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Sports
Posts:14
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| 01/25/2007 9:07 PM |
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Ok,
I'll probably get shot down in flames for this, but here goes my 2c worth.
Forget the "Recon" system. Learn how to re-launch the kite without this complication and you'll be better off in the long run.
Lessons may seem expensive, but GOOD lessons will save you loads of learning time as well as possibly prevent serious injury down the line.
If you find yourself on the South Coast, give me a call & someone will help you out with pleasure. |
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phatz
Posts:2
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| 01/29/2007 3:56 PM |
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I took lessons and to me they were the biggest waste of money. Most of the stuff i have learnt is from friends who taught me. Not a big fan of instructors but if they are good then go for it.
Good luck. This sport is more addictive than drugs |
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flexi
Posts:4
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| 03/07/2007 9:53 PM |
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Hi Steve. The kite you purchased is great for the days the wind is blowing correct for your size kite, do not go out in winds that exceed the kites limit and your personal skills. I would highly suggest flying your small kite till you really feel comfy with it and take out your big kite on the days its light, this way you will not get intimidated by the kite.
Please feel free to give me a shout or come down to the La Mercy lagoon and we will give you some advice or your kite, re-launch etc .
Sin
0825724163
www.kitesports.co.za |
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Alastair
Posts:45
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| 05/31/2007 9:41 AM |
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Most important skill to learn is how to quick release and how to trigger your instant depower system.
Trust me on this one, be prepared to lose your kite before you lose your life.
Cheers
Alastair |
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