What kite should I buy?
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What kite should I buy?
This article assumes that you are looking to try power kiting using a fixed bridle kite.
What size kite?
The size (and shape) of a kite determines its power for a given wind range, so that larger kites are generally flown in less windy conditions than smaller ones.
A good sized kite to begin with is around 2.5m to 3.5m in surface area. A kite of this size will suit a wide range of wind conditions and can be flown from about 8mph wind upwards (A beginner should try to have their first flight with a new 2.5m to 3.5m kite in winds of no more than about 12mph).
The shape of the kite affects its performance and suitability for different applications. Avoid race kites and high aspect ratio kites when beginning as they will have a tendency to crumple up all the time until your handling skills have really developed.
Two line or four line?
A two line kite can be fun to begin with and will usually cost less than a four line kite, but has a big disadvantage - If the kite is crashed so that it is facing downwards, it will be very hard to relaunch the kite without assistance. If you prefer the freedom to fly on your own without having to rely on others (e.g your kite widow), a four line kite is a better option, as it allows the kite to be reverse launched when this happens.
So what kite should I buy?
The best advice would have to be "One that you have flown and really enjoyed flying". There are plenty of like minded kiters who will be pleased to let you have a fly of one of their kites if you ask, and it just isn't worth buying a kite only to find that it does not suit you.
You should also consider whether to buy brand new or second hand. Most beginners start by buying a brand new kite, but their second purchase will often be a second hand kite that has hardly been flown at all, for about half the price of a new one.
A few good examples of kites to try out would be: ):
Choose one in the 2.5m to 3.5m range.
--Badger 20:37, 24 January 2010 (UTC)
