Power Kite Forum

Skydog 1.8 or 2.6?

RJohn - 4-4-2016 at 07:35 AM

First post, here goes.....

Situation:

- first time kiter
- retired, 195 pounds
- residence in the Pacific Northwest on the coast
- decided on quad line variety of kite
- not interested in using it in conjunction with buggy, board, jumping etc
- will likely look at framed kite next but this first one is for motorcycle trips hence the choice of foil for compact storage.

After doing a fair amount of reading of foil/power options the Skydog PowerFoil appeared to be a sound choice for my needs but I'm down to the two sizes....1.8 or 2.6. The line sets and handles etc are the same so it's just a foil size. The difference in price on Smooth Winds is about $35 ($195/$230 free shipping).

I'd appreciate any input on why one would be better than the other for my application...

Thanks in advance!

Ron :puzzled:

Bladerunner - 4-4-2016 at 02:48 PM

The 2.6 m will have noticeably more power as the wind picks up. Enough power to scud down wind on the sand when winds are strong and a good work out. It would be my choice.

The 1.8 will fly very fast through the window and turn very fast compared to the 2.6m. It won't over power you unless the winds are extremely strong. Short little spurts of power. Sort of too small for 195# if you want to actually feel any real power. Unless the winds are very strong.

Look in to Revolution kites when you look at framed kites. By far the most fun and challenging to fly!

RJohn - 4-4-2016 at 03:07 PM

Thanks for the input BR, decision made and I have the tracking number On my way back home in early May from the first MC trip of the year I'll be stopping at Lincoln City OR and Long Beach WA. The Rev is also on the horizon after I get some hours under the belt. I'm told that I should at least go for the B series?

Ron

abkayak - 4-4-2016 at 04:27 PM

If you buy the 1.8 in 2weeks you'll want the 2.6....so I'm good w/ either
Welcome

riffclown - 4-4-2016 at 05:53 PM

Quote: Originally posted by abkayak  
If you buy the 1.8 in 2weeks you'll want the 2.6....so I'm good w/ either
Welcome


And the inverse is also true.. If you're doing stunting I'd start with the 1.8
If you are very new to 4 line foils, the smaller foil would get my vote..
You will very soon want a larger foil, be it the 2.6 or even larger but you'll enjoy the smaller kite for a long time too. I've flown the Small Skydog and it's an absolute blast. I also own the Skydog SDT 2.8 and it's also a ton of fun. Click on the link in my sig for my review of that kite. The only reason I don't have the Skydog 1.8 is it's so very close to other kites I own in performance and power...

I MOSTLY static fly and I love my small kites but I also love the power of the big ones when the conditions allow... Either would be a great choice. I'd go smaller first until you get the hang of the 4 liners..