Power Kite Forum - Pass the Mr.Kitesurf - Firewall 6.0

Pass the Mr.Kitesurf - Firewall 6.0

ripsessionkites - 12-7-2008 at 02:14 AM

I have been contacted by the company Mr.Kitesurf, and have been offered some demos, that I'd like to share with everyone here.

Basically the company is fairly new and they wanted feedback on their product from this side of earth, either good or bad, we want to know.

About Mr.Kitesurf:
They use to manufacture for other brands, but decided to design their own line of kites. The designer is Norbert Curti, who use to design for Takoon. Kites are made in China but designed with French Innovation. =)

They made 4 different type of kites:

KongKong - Two Line Trainer
Firewall - Fixed Bridle Foil
Yeti - Depower Foil
G-Force - LEI / Water Kite

For more information: www.mrkitesurf.com

I'm currently putting up the Firewall 6m to be passed around. I will also supply this demo with lines and handles.

The Firewall 3m and Yeti 7.5m will be demoed at SOBB 08'

SCREWYFITS - 12-7-2008 at 04:01 AM

I'm down for demo'n it... count me in... when do we start?
This is kinda of a race/buggy kite?

dylanj423 - 12-7-2008 at 12:24 PM

I'd try it out if you'd let me. I would probably only be able to be objective with the fixed bridle version.

barnes - 12-7-2008 at 01:54 PM

I'm in too, sounds interesting!

Also, I'd like to see the prices on the kites. The G-Force looks great!

kitedemon - 12-7-2008 at 03:56 PM

Ricardo,
I'd love a chance to give it a try it looks like a sweet ride!
Alex

furbowski - 12-7-2008 at 05:46 PM

wow... the website looks good, the handles look nice, the flying lines are a good color and they have the little tabs on the loops...

the bridle on the firewall looks kinda long and busy though, but I'd be surprised if the kites are cr@p...

Hope I get a chance to see these kites in action soon....

Bladerunner - 12-7-2008 at 07:11 PM

Was that a 3m firewall I tried the other day ? The black one ?

Sweet little kite ! Well behaved for a race kite !

Baluk - 12-7-2008 at 07:39 PM

I'm up for it... This will work just like Pass the Combat etc?

f0rgiv3n - 12-7-2008 at 10:34 PM

Dude that looks awesome man! it sounds like a good time :P I'd like to give it a try if there ends up being enough time for it.

Sthrasher38 - 13-7-2008 at 09:23 AM

I'll be glad to try it if it makes it this far. Thanks Ricardo. Screwy, You are first on the list. Let me know if you get it so we can kill 2 with one stone thanks.

archkiter - 13-7-2008 at 09:26 AM

Nice looking kites. I'll try to find you at SOBB to check them out in the flesh.

ripsessionkites - 13-7-2008 at 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bladerunner
Was that a 3m firewall I tried the other day ? The black one ?

Sweet little kite ! Well behaved for a race kite !

Locally we had the Firewall 3m out ... so yes its the one you flew. Someone asked about prices, the 3m MSRP - $266.00 USD Complete with their lines and handles. The current 6m going around is $393.00 USD Complete.

I would put the kite to Advanced. Its stable enough for a newer traction kiter to fly.

I'll make the list, and get the kite out to the first person.

ripsessionkites - 14-7-2008 at 07:53 PM

Here goes the list

1. Screwyfits / Dakitez
2. Dylanj423
3. Barnes
4. Kitedemon
5. Baluk
6. Forgiven
7. Strasher38
8. biglou13
9. clintopher

anyone else I forgot? if anyone is closer to the next person to save on shipping please change the lineup amongst yourselves.

good or bad, all comments are welcome. =)

Baluk - 14-7-2008 at 07:55 PM

Okay well. not to but in line... But I'm in Canada. Are the others you listed above me, as well? If not, would it make sense to make me go first?

kitedemon - 15-7-2008 at 12:44 PM

Hey I am east coast Canada! NS so Mark is on the way from Vancouver. But Screwy is south eek that is a complicated proposal. I likely should bump under Mark however...

kiteNH - 15-7-2008 at 02:26 PM

Alright, I hate to be negative, but since no one else has brought it up I've got to say it. "Mr. Kitesurf" has got to be the worst company name in the entire kite industry. :thumbdown:

How can that be the best name they can come up with? It obviously has nothing to do with the quality of the kite or the company but jeez, what a dorky name. It makes me thing of Mr. Coffee.

kitedemon - 15-7-2008 at 03:23 PM

And Invento is better?

ripsessionkites - 15-7-2008 at 06:44 PM

okay, we're going South first, Vancouver to CA (Dlish and Screw) ... since i'm already sending them other demos. is that okay with everyone ... cross the Americas and back up to Canada???

i wasnt going to be the first to says it ... but i totally 100% agree the name could have been different. I personally hate the LOGO. hey there just names I guess, but most companies have odd names: Nova / Pansh / Mr.Kitesurf / WOLKENSTÜRMER / RHOMBUS / and a few more.

biglou13 - 15-7-2008 at 06:47 PM

add me to list

kitedemon - 15-7-2008 at 08:01 PM

Is the logo on the kite?

kitedemon - 15-7-2008 at 08:08 PM

Oh it is... damn. I didn't like the logo either...

ripsessionkites - 15-7-2008 at 10:21 PM

yah, its on the side that we have to look at, on the back side is the name of the Kite "Firewall / Yeti"

photos of all their kites can be found here: http://mrkitesurf.com/download.htm

DAKITEZ - 15-7-2008 at 10:25 PM

Thanks ripsessionkites
we won't hog it long and we should also be able to get sthrasher out at the same time, so it will be a three for one shot.

Demokite - 17-7-2008 at 10:00 PM

Here's a video on the G-Force :ticking:

ripsessionkites - 26-7-2008 at 02:20 AM

sorry for the delay ... had to take some pics of the Firewall 6m for Mrkitesurf

its going out monday to Screwy / dakitez and company in that area.

clintopher - 26-7-2008 at 05:44 AM

Is it to late to get on the list?

Clint

ripsessionkites - 26-7-2008 at 05:46 AM

nope! =)

added!

Revised List (July 26/2008):

1. Screwyfits / Dakitez
2. Dylanj423
3. Barnes
4. Kitedemon
5. Baluk
6. Forgiven
7. Strasher38
8. biglou13
9. clintopher / WELDNGOD
10. revpaul

WELDNGOD - 26-7-2008 at 05:47 AM

clint if you get on list, I wanna try it too(kill two kiters with one kite) I'll help w/ reshipping.

clintopher - 26-7-2008 at 06:07 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ripsessionkites
nope! =)

added!

Revised List (July 26/2008):

1. Screwyfits / Dakitez
2. Dylanj423
3. Barnes
4. Kitedemon
5. Baluk
6. Forgiven
7. Strasher38
8. biglou13
9. clintopher

Thanks

Sthrasher38 - 27-7-2008 at 10:04 AM

Screwey,Dakites,And Thrasher. That will open a spot. Where is it?

ripsessionkites - 27-7-2008 at 12:06 PM

on the way to screwy leaving monday from BC. =)

Sthrasher38 - 28-7-2008 at 07:48 AM

Thanks Ricardo.

SCREWYFITS - 28-7-2008 at 09:36 PM

Hey every one just a quick word on the U-turn Butane (not part of this "Pass the Firewall" deal) but DIKITEZ got the Butane 7m Demo today and I flew it... HOLLY $$$$#@%$#!... :o:o I think I was over powered... the kite is a Buggy top fuel drag motor...
More to come later in the review section...

WWWOW... HOOOLLY $$#@%$#!...:o

ripsessionkites - 28-7-2008 at 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SCREWYFITS
Hey every one just a quick word on the U-turn Butane (not part of this "Pass the Firewall" deal) but DIKITEZ got the Butane 7m Demo today and I flew it... HOLLY $$$$#@%$#!... :o:o I think I was over powered... the kite is a Buggy top fuel drag motor...
More to come later in the review section...

WWWOW... HOOOLLY $$#@%$#!...:o

... its a 6.5m
if you wanna go even faster I can always send a Nitro Evo II as well. =)
have fun with it =)

PS. screwy the firewall was sent today, tracking number to your PM tomorrow.

SCREWYFITS - 28-7-2008 at 10:07 PM

I'm gonna try again tomorrow in lighter winds to see if I can get a better feel for it... I had to do the walk of shame because it was too much power in the winds I was in... all the guys (DAKITEZ Sthrasher, a newguy an my cuz's boyfriend) were laughing :lol:

at me because they knew I was hauling a$$ and was over powered to get back... Laugh :lol:

it up suckers... :smilegrin:

The Nitro Evo II might be down the road a little, DAKITEZ and I have too many kites to try the next couple weeks but after that, we're on!!!
What size is that Nitro??

WELDNGOD - 29-7-2008 at 02:57 PM

HEY SCREWY ,sometimes it's not a walk of shame. Sometimes it's a walk of the BRAVE! :thumbup:

SCREWYFITS - 29-7-2008 at 05:39 PM

That's what the boys call it, I don't care, I couldn't hold the kite down (amazing power)... like you say walk of brave... The way I look at it, at least I could "WALK" back... :yes:

ripsessionkites - 29-7-2008 at 05:57 PM

i sent Dakitez some tuning tips on the Butan when using it in higher winds.

if its too wind to buggy, its got enough lift for kgb jumping as well. =)

dunno, when you guys are looking for more demos, i've have a Nitro 3.1 / 3.9 / 4.9 ready to go as well.

two thumbs up for being brave enough to fly it ... way to go extreme!!!

DAKITEZ - 29-7-2008 at 11:04 PM

I was wondering yesterday if the name u-turn came from the fact that the kite has you going soo fast you can't make a u-turn :smilegrin:

Screwy sure did make it to the other end of the field pretty darn quick. :lol:

dylanj423 - 30-7-2008 at 08:32 AM

hey ripsession... i would love to fly my 4.9 blade next to that 4.9 nitro. would it be ok with you to demo that? i would need to get to the beach, i think to get the best side by side comparison.

i keep hearing uturn mentioned, but cant find any real info on them. prices, sizes, etc...

ripsessionkites - 30-7-2008 at 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by dylanj423
hey ripsession... i would love to fly my 4.9 blade next to that 4.9 nitro. would it be ok with you to demo that? i would need to get to the beach, i think to get the best side by side comparison.

i keep hearing uturn mentioned, but cant find any real info on them. prices, sizes, etc...

i'll get a demo going shortly for you.
comparing a blade to nitro is apples to oranges. blade has lift than forward speed, and vice versa for the nitro. tridude has flown both blades and the nitro when i sent him a demo.

if you're close to Dakitez, he has a demo 6.5m Butan right now.

usa / canada site: www.ripsessionkites.com
german site: www.u-turn.de
contact our dealers on the RS site for prices. =)

dylanj423 - 30-7-2008 at 08:14 PM

then i guess i'll bust out the 4.7 rage, also. :thumbup:

thanks ripsession I'm not anywhere near dakitez, unfortunately, but there are a couple forum members near me that may want to test it out, too.

WELDNGOD - 30-7-2008 at 08:18 PM

DYLAN, do you have a AAA kit on your rages?

dylanj423 - 30-7-2008 at 08:55 PM

No, what purpose do they serve?

furbowski - 30-7-2008 at 10:56 PM

adjusts the angle of attack, comes as standard on the blade, you should have it on you blave IV 4.9

i keep hearing good things bout the uturns, be nice to hear a comparision...

ripsessionkites - 31-7-2008 at 01:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by furbowski
adjusts the angle of attack, comes as standard on the blade, you should have it on you blave IV 4.9

i keep hearing good things bout the uturns, be nice to hear a comparision...

furb, you have no excuse .. get your butt over to GP on the weekends. DS is out with his Butans every weekend and we have the Nitros, lots of buggies and boards to go around.

plus it would be nice to meet you in person as well.

dylanj423 - 31-7-2008 at 06:35 AM

Ah, didnt know thats what it was called, I really like it on the blade a lot (takes some fear, or adds adrenaline), do you find your rage with more lift than it had?

ripsessionkites - 31-7-2008 at 06:40 AM

some pics of last weekend, the Blue /Red / White is hte demo 6.0m going around. the orange is the 8.0m, soon to have a 10 maybe 12 available shortly.

http://s116.photobucket.com/albums/o7/ripsessionkites/Mr%20K...

how about a beginners opinion

revpaul - 4-8-2008 at 10:44 AM

i would love to demo the kite. never had the pleasure of demo-ing anything other than a vehicle. it would be a nice first.
Paul

WELDNGOD - 4-8-2008 at 01:16 PM

dylan, I wouldn't say lift,more like pull. But the setting that takes a little power out of it actually makes it fly faster and go upwind better. Flexifoil should make it standard on Rages, it is that big of an improvement.

ripsessionkites - 4-8-2008 at 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by revpaul
i would love to demo the kite. never had the pleasure of demo-ing anything other than a vehicle. it would be a nice first.
Paul

sounds good to me, added to the list .. its in the USA now, and will go from west to east and than north to Baluk and across to you Revpaul, and one province back home to BC.

SCREWYFITS - 5-8-2008 at 07:01 PM

I got the kite yesterday and hope to give it a good go here the end of this week...:singing:
I like the shoulder sack it comes in, my favorite type of bag for kites... I'm not much for the big ol backpack, IMO... these are a longer stuff sack with a draw string and a shoulder strap... :thumbup:

I haven't got a chance to pull it out but looks to have that quality craftsmanship... solid seams and thin bridal... I'll report more after I get a better chance to look it over completely...:D

WELDNGOD - 5-8-2008 at 08:03 PM

Before the end of the week you could maybe take it out and photo the lines , handles etc.. Hell give us an "out of the bag "review. Can't wait until Clintopher and I get to demo it.( I'm sure _____ and silvereaglekiter will come out too.) In fact we will have to hold a very special Hampton kiter meet just for this occasion. Is it the 6.0m ?

SCREWYFITS - 5-8-2008 at 08:17 PM

6m... yes...
Photos... will do... and a out of bag review for sure...

ripsessionkites - 5-8-2008 at 08:18 PM

sorry to be a the posting #@%$#! ...

i'm surprised you like the bag ... i'm one for the backpack or a bag. I found it difficult to put that 6.0 back into the bag after the first flight. maybe you have a solution for it, i just folded and folded until i could cramp it into the bag.

one thing is the pig tails on the kite are a bit bulky ... on the newer version they will have a thinner pig tail, and the brake line pig tail is longer as well so you can add more knots.

ps. the lines and handles arent from mr.kitesurf ... i took the lines and handles off one of my U-Turn kites. Handles are U-Turn, and the Lines are Climax Combat

i'll stop posting for a few days. =)

WELDNGOD - 5-8-2008 at 08:32 PM

RSK you post away bro' we appreciate the chance to try b4 you buy. Thanx for the info. but were there no lines or handles? I don't really care about the bag ,as long as there is one.(I don't know how to fly a bag :lol

Thanx again for the demo. tight lines :thumbup:

SCREWYFITS - 5-8-2008 at 09:32 PM

I feel the backpack are money wasted when you buy more than one kite... W.G. you really need to give "bag flying" a chance...:D

You are right ripsession, the bag is a lil small around and could use a lil larger girth and maybe a lil shorter... doesn't quite need to be so tall...

I got the kite out here at work, unfolded, took photos and uploaded to photobucket and here is a link...
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v230/Screwyfits/Firewall%2...

Like I thought the build quality seems top notch right up there with the other top brands... looks and feels very solid and am very anxious to get it out on a date with mother nature... looks like a freestyle shape more than a race shape but looks great for bug'n also... my guess is it will be good for jumping... all these opinions are from just looking at it on the floor at work and not inflated as to get a complete look at the inflated shape... as soon as I can get it out and get fly time I'll post a review... Looking forward to it, Thanx Rip...:singing:

dylanj423 - 5-8-2008 at 10:33 PM

Thanks for the pics...

Thanks again to ripsession for letting us demo.

ripsessionkites - 6-8-2008 at 02:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by WELDNGOD
RSK you post away bro' we appreciate the chance to try b4 you buy. Thanx for the info. but were there no lines or handles? I don't really care about the bag ,as long as there is one.(I don't know how to fly a bag :lol

Thanx again for the demo. tight lines :thumbup:

too answer your question, i have supplied this demo with lines and handles just not lines and handles you would get from Mr.Kitesurf if you bought it complete.

with this demo i was hoping to kills two birds with one stone, and see if anyone likes the look / feel of Climax Lines. sorry, my hidden agenda. =)

ps. sorry screwy for the dusty kite, our local field got a haircut which left nothing but dust and sand, when i had it out to put lines/handles on it.

SCREWYFITS - 7-8-2008 at 11:06 PM

So... I took the Firewall out for a test run at the local field, semi crapy wind... over all the kite feels solid and stable (thats ah +), the turning is slow and needs break input for a higher reaction to the turn request (ah +/- ?)... I guessed that it was going to be good for jumping, I was wrong (ah -)... not much lift at all (could be ah +), so I've come to the conclusion that it is going to take to the buggy well (like a horse to a carriage) based on it has a fair amount of pull... far from a race kite though, more of a cruz'n bug engine...The U-Turn handles did not wow me but seemed to do the job... the lines seemed well used so hard to say weather they are good, they do seem like they are of the stiff nature like most top manufactures... the waxy feeling is gone if it ever had it... But I'm under the impression that these don't normally come with this kite...

So this is a partial review and kind of one dimensional based on just static flying in semi crap winds... I'll give a go on the bug and review again to complete this one...

ripsessionkites - 8-8-2008 at 03:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by SCREWYFITS
So... I took the Firewall out for a test run at the local field, semi crapy wind... over all the kite feels solid and stable (thats ah +), the turning is slow and needs break input for a higher reaction to the turn request (ah +/- ?)... I guessed that it was going to be good for jumping, I was wrong (ah -)... not much lift at all (could be ah +), so I've come to the conclusion that it is going to take to the buggy well (like a horse to a carriage) based on it has a fair amount of pull... far from a race kite though, more of a cruz'n bug engine...The U-Turn handles did not wow me but seemed to do the job... the lines seemed well used so hard to say weather they are good, they do seem like they are of the stiff nature like most top manufactures... the waxy feeling is gone if it ever had it... But I'm under the impression that these don't normally come with this kite...

So this is a partial review and kind of one dimensional based on just static flying in semi crap winds... I'll give a go on the bug and review again to complete this one...

yes, you're right its doesnt have much lift.

The climax line that i sent are old i mean old ... 3+ years and counting, been to NABX twice, and seen about 3 months of salt water abuse as well (never washed). i should also mention that they have also been in a thorn bush a few times too. it did have wax coating, but its gone now. I'll send a new set of lines with the Electra. =)

my next question is anything mr.kitesurf could improve on?

SCREWYFITS - 15-8-2008 at 01:16 PM

Alright boys and girls...

After a good solid three hours of overall flight, I've come to a conclusion... :sniff:
I tried this kite in low wind, high wind, smooth and gusty wind... and I could not find anything that made it fly up to my standards...
Overall the kite is very well constructed, great materials... I just believe the design or bridals need some tweaking...

On the buggy... The kite is very slow turning, the breaks are a must to get it to turn... it seems to fly to far forward in the window then doesn't have very much power when its there... I tried to work it back in the window (jibing the thing) I tried applying the breaks to slow it back in the window and the power is just not there on this kite... I noticed the tips like to fold in also, this makes me believe the bridal could help... while in the air (inflated) the kite has a crease in the tail end apx 5-6" up as if the breaks are applied, this is while no breaks are applied (slack)... this makes me believe the tweaking of the canopy design might help some...

I'd love to see this company do some tweaking and come back with a hot hot kite... I've heard the logo sucks and all that but I'm not sure changing that or removing it will make any flight characteristics change...:tumble:

I think, back to the drawing board with this one...

I rooting for Mr.Kitesurf to knock one out the park... we need more kite competition, I'm not real impressed with the top manufactures business practices lately, some more than others...

I'M STARTING U-TURN BUTANE TREAD IN THE REVIEW SECTION KEEP AN EYE OPEN :o OR TWO...

SCREWYFITS - 19-8-2008 at 06:22 PM

Its on to way to Texas to visit Dylanj423...
Hope you find some better qualities, I'd really like to see the manufacture stick around and be a big part of our sport...
Thanx Again, Screwy...

WELDNGOD - 19-8-2008 at 06:38 PM

I think clint and I will put it on one of my flexi linesets. They seem to be the $#@% on other kites that have marginal linesets. hey is the manufacturer gonna want feedback from us?Individually or collectively?

SCREWYFITS - 19-8-2008 at 07:41 PM

I'm guessing individually... but I'll let Rip answer that...
The lines where fine, just aged... the Flexi's should do just fine also, you got the new Flexi handles :o they are soooo sweet...

ripsessionkites - 19-8-2008 at 07:41 PM

indivdually would be great. just keep it under one post.

dylanj423 - 21-8-2008 at 12:16 PM

just got it in the mail, havent even opened it up, yet. The bag is nice & simple, and I am a fan of the color scheme of the bag, but thats all I can say for now. Thanks for getting it to me, I just need some wind, now...

Will keep you posted.

dylanj423 - 1-9-2008 at 08:51 PM

I will ship it out first thing next week to Barnes... maybe this weekend will bring some useable wind... Hopefully anyway. I have only had it out in 3-8 mph wind, gusty and inland. It held up really well given the conditions. Didnt fall out of the sky one time. I couldnt really get it to the edge of the window to see how it flew there, but hopefully I will get the chance this week sometime. Gustav should get some wind our way.

In looking over the kite, it seems pretty well built. The bridles are bright yellow, and didnt seem either skimpy or excessive. There arent any reinforcements where the bridal meets the canopy, however, so seems that it wouldnt be well suited to pushing the limits of the kite. Pretty high A/R, and pulled pretty well, though what I got was unusable in a boarding sense.

The internal ribs seem pretty heavily reinforced, I dont think I have seen another kite with so much ripstop inside.

If I am able to get this thing out in some better winds, I will post more info. Unfortunately this is all I am able to provide. For a 6m kite under $400, I think it flies pretty well, really well actually... but the logo and the name would probably keep me from actually forking over some cash for it. Petty??? Maybe, but its true.

Thanks for the opportunity to get the kite in my hands. As I said, unless you think I should just go ahead and get it to Barnes, I would like to wait until next week to ship it on.

ripsessionkites - 1-9-2008 at 10:00 PM

give it one more week =)

okay with you barnes?

Bladerunner - 2-9-2008 at 07:26 PM

I got my hands on the 8m Firewall at SOBB. I could almost cut and paste Screwy's post on the smaller version.

Build Quality is good ! 1st off, I found the knots on the bidles large and grabby ?

Static flying it impressed me. Not too slow for an 8m. Once I started moving it started to disappoint. The smooth power flying staic didn't seem to translate into raw power when moving. Tip tuck and the 1st bow tie I have created in a long while. I think the grabby knots are partly to blame and could be overcome. Of the 3 newcomers Rip' sent down with me I think this one was the least impressive!

And YES, the Logo sucks !

dylanj423 - 8-9-2008 at 06:50 AM

Tried shooting Barnes a U2U, dont know if he got it... if you see this, shot me a U2U back. Tryin' to get this demo to you.

barnes - 10-9-2008 at 06:59 PM

I'm sorry about my absence! I've been way to busy recently...but I'd love to snag the kite and have an excuse to go out and fly! Hopefully I'll have it in time for the Wildwood Buggy Bash and I can show it off to a lot more eyes.

ripsessionkites - 12-9-2008 at 04:10 AM

i think Mr.? is catching on ... JN Kites just came out with Mr.Fanastic in their kite lineup.

dylanj423 - 26-9-2008 at 03:06 PM

I assume barnes got the kite?

barnes - 28-9-2008 at 12:06 PM

I had the kite out this weekend at the Wildwood Buggy Bash. I didn't get to much time under it due to the lack of wind (And the Neo demo!) but when I did get it out, I had fun. Here are my thoughts:

Kite is super stable in the air, didn't need as much input as I expected out of a 'racekite'. I was able to park and ride pretty well, in the extremely short buggy ride I did get in. The low end if pretty solid, as Dom can attest to! This morning we get out to the beach with next to no wind, but as it picked up to ~5mph, I decided to give it a shot. It seemed to find some wind, and was giving me a bit of a workout and some skuds in next to no wind. I noticed a few bad things: True, it is slow for a race kite. Reverse launching kind of folded the kite half, and wasn't to responsive, but I blame wind on that part. Jumping was not the kites most favorite things. No lift, and the kite luffed every time I'd land my little pathetic jump. (Again, probably safe to blame the wind speed.)

Other then that, I think its a great kite, but I'd pull it out of the 'racekite' category and move it into a good beginner and buggy kite. No lift, slower turning, and stable.

But, good fun! I agree, I'd love to see Mr. Kitesurf step up and become a reliable brand name, as there are far to few at the top right now. Good friendly competition would be good for the sport!

Bladerunner - 28-9-2008 at 05:51 PM

I'm not sure that this was presented as a " racekite " ?
If so, I agree completely that it doesn't fit that catagory.
I think you are confusing THIS kite with the Cooper kite that's going around. The Cooper is a very nice , well behaved race type kite.
The Firewall is clearly an introduction to power sport type kite. Stable and responsive but not too lifty . Better for a buggy or beginer.

Quote:

Originally posted by barnes
Other then that, I think its a great kite, but I'd pull it out of the 'racekite' category and move it into a good beginner and buggy kite. No lift, slower turning, and stable.

But, good fun! I agree, I'd love to see Mr. Kitesurf step up and become a reliable brand name, as there are far to few at the top right now. Good friendly competition would be good for the sport!

ripsessionkites - 28-9-2008 at 06:22 PM

i know they have signed up a Racer to use it in the curcuit but havent heard much about it. i personally wouldnt put it passed the advanced level, however i like the fact that they made it a higher AR and reduced any lift which is good for beginners.

however they are trying to market this as a "race kite" ... maybe we should bring them down to earth. :bisou:

barnes - 28-9-2008 at 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bladerunner
I'm not sure that this was presented as a " racekite " ?
If so, I agree completely that it doesn't fit that catagory.
I think you are confusing THIS kite with the Cooper kite that's going around. The Cooper is a very nice , well behaved race type kite.
The Firewall is clearly an introduction to power sport type kite. Stable and responsive but not too lifty . Better for a buggy or beginer.

Quote:

Yeah, you would think I was confused about it being a race kite, but they are calling it a racing buggy kite! http://www.mrkitesurf.com/products_2.htm

Yes, if I were in Mr. Kitesurfs shoes, I'd drop the race kite title...you'll only get more sales if you consider it an intro kite rather then marketing it to only racers!

I'd love to see how the racer does in the circuit...

and I love the logo! Its much different from all the logos you see these days!

domdino - 29-9-2008 at 07:14 AM

Thanks for letting me have a go this weekend barnes, the wind was crappy which was probably causing most of the luffing but the kite felt pretty nice apart from that! It made me miss handles... speaking of handles, they were pretty nice on it, i've always liked flexi's handles the best but these were good and hand a nice feel, how much are these kites? :D

barnes - 1-10-2008 at 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by domdino
Thanks for letting me have a go this weekend barnes, the wind was crappy which was probably causing most of the luffing but the kite felt pretty nice apart from that! It made me miss handles... speaking of handles, they were pretty nice on it, i've always liked flexi's handles the best but these were good and hand a nice feel, how much are these kites? :D

Well the Handles were U-Turns...They were nice too. Pansh only blisters my hands. :thumbdown:

Not to sure on the prices of these guys...I didn't even look around for prices.

barnes - 28-10-2008 at 03:51 AM

I'm sorry on the delay! I'm going to get the kite out to KiteDeamon this week!

ripsessionkites - 12-11-2008 at 08:18 PM

Barnes have you sent it out yet?

barnes - 13-11-2008 at 11:25 AM

Shipped it out last week. The leash I shipped to Montreal along with it made it no problem...should be there soon.

kitedemon - 11-12-2008 at 09:07 PM

I find it difficult to write about the Mr.Kitesurf Firewall. It has been marketed as a race kite, I predictably flew it back to back with a race kite of known pedigree, a Jojo RM 3m. I was going to compare them together however the JOJO totally out classed the firewall so I have given up that avenue. I want to state that for the record this is based on my experiences with the firewall and is biased by the location I fly on and a cross shore gusty, lumpy day of wind. I often find myself in very odd turbulent wind I like the term rambunctious. I would not say the Firewall is a race kite as I did not find it particularly fast. I did find it however very temperamental and much more twitchy than the race kites I have had experience with. The Firewall seems to be a well made kite in materials and workmanship, the stuff bag is very simple but roomy enough to easily hold the kite.

First flight, I pulled the kite from the bag and set it up, I left the last used break settings figuring that would be a good starting point. I did not like the look of the logo and colours I was ready to forgive that assuming the kite flew well. I was disappointed. I fount this kite to be slow to turn and sluggish in its responses. I also found it to be quite prone to tip folding and with the very long bridles the tips snagged fairly often and were oddly resistant to shaking out. The power it produced was aggressive and unpredictable. Thinking perhaps the breaks are too tight, I proceeded to make a bunch of adjustments I lost some of the unpredictable nature but the power went as well. I also to my dismay managed a large number of bow ties. One on a hot launch about 2m from the ground the kite wasn't even fully inflated.

The firewall feels very much like the Pansh Ace with lower lift, perhaps better made and with a bridle system for friendly to tinkers. It is also more expensive that the Aces run as well. I own a Ace and dislike it a lot. I would likely dislike the firewall more as It has a larger price tag. If you like the Ace (mine is a first generation one and I think it is a bit off) perhaps you will like the firewall too. I don't. I would likely recommend the Ace, over the Firewall on the price tag alone. I would also go so far as to say if you were shopping in the price range of the Firewall that saving a bit more money and buying a Cooper would serve to be a better choice. Or save some cash and go for an Ace, and invest in better handles and lines. This is just my observations I am not knocking the pansh kites and really don't want to open that particular can of worms. I know that many people love the ace, and take a great deal of pleasure from it. There are also many that don't like them. I think that the Ace is suited to a particular style and not everybody fits it, nothing wrong with that. I feel the firewall tries to be too much, an all rounder, but just isn't. To my mind it just falls short.

Alex

Bladerunner - 12-12-2008 at 08:42 AM

Great review Kitedemon,

This pass program is great! It is working as it should ! I don't think Rip wants to hear less than the truth about the kites He has found a couple of winners and then this brand. I have a feeling He will keep working with Cooper and Wolfensturmer ( sp ) ??? I doubt He will want Mr.Kitesurfer ?
While I'm sure we all hoped for more from Mr.Kitesurfer it is starting to look like He is just a pretty face :singing: I think we all agree we don't even like the pretty face.

kitedemon - 12-12-2008 at 09:47 AM

Blade,
I agree the pass the ___ is a wonderful thing!!! My hat is defiantly off to Rip and any other dealer that is will to put their products to the test. I actually asked him if he would rather I wrote nothing than a bad review. He responded "submit HONESTLY is the key ... if it sux ... WRITE IT." I am glad that you liked the review.

Bladerunner - 12-12-2008 at 12:14 PM

I'm not surprised Rip' encouraged an honest review. :thumbup:

While He is helping us out our honest opinions help Him!
I'm not sure of His plan from here but I expect He will continue to carry the Cooper and Wofensturmer ( sp ) but probably won't feel He can stand by Mr.Kitesurfer.

Quote:

Originally posted by kitedemon
Blade,
I agree the pass the ___ is a wonderful thing!!! My hat is defiantly off to Rip and any other dealer that is will to put their products to the test. I actually asked him if he would rather I wrote nothing than a bad review. He responded "submit HONESTLY is the key ... if it sux ... WRITE IT." I am glad that you liked the review.

Baluk - 12-12-2008 at 09:53 PM

Well this thing if coming my way next, I want to see how it handles.

ripsessionkites - 13-12-2008 at 06:05 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bladerunner
I'm not surprised Rip' encouraged an honest review. :thumbup:

Quote:

more kites coming to be passed .... lots of new gear for 2009 season. cant say much right now, but i'll get more different companies to cough up demo gear. hehehe

yes, i'm carrying the Cooper Kite series, and also helping to design the graphics on the 2009 kite. :wee:

thank you to those that have tried / reviewed the Firewall, sorry if it was a bust. :mad:

Bladerunner - 13-12-2008 at 09:27 AM

I don't think you need to be TOO sorry Rip'.

If every kite you managed to find + Pass came back with glowing reviews it would be unbelievable. The fact that we can all agree that one is not going to make the cut while others do proves that the concept works !
I know I was glad to get my hands on all the great kites you found. I'm not sorry I got the chance to try the firewall. Even if it didn't impress me much.
Everyone wins with this thing !
Thanks!

WELDNGOD - 13-12-2008 at 04:44 PM

I agree , I also think this is a win -win situation for everyone involved.And I appreciate the chance to try new stuff. It could help me decide on what to buy , or not to buy. And it helps RIP and the kite companies to figure out what people want /like. And 20 or 30 dollars is a small price to pay, to avoid spending alot more on something you don't want/need.

kitedemon - 13-12-2008 at 07:51 PM

I also am very thankful for the chance to fly different kites! Even if I don't like something doesn't mean nobody else will. Also it says a lot about the integrity of a dealer whom passes a new kite to a stranger miles away and then says print what you think. Period, no questions or criteria, just what you think. I'd trust any dealer who is so open with their products. If they were to say it is a great kite it is. I value that very highly in any place I buy from. An honest opinion from real experience, how many times have I had the brochure read back to me? Ricardo many thanks for the 'pass' kites and for being a dealer who will not steer someone wrong just to make a buck!!!

Baluk - 29-12-2008 at 08:16 AM

I got it in the mail today. Is it just me or is the material very thick? as well as the leaders from the bridle! Well, I shall see how it performs.

ripsessionkites - 13-2-2009 at 09:09 PM

1. Screwyfits / Dakitez - done
2. Dylanj423 - done
3. Barnes - done
4. Kitedemon - done
5. Baluk ---> with kite
6. Forgiven
7. Strasher38
8. biglou13
9. clintopher - done

WolfWolfee - 13-2-2009 at 09:43 PM

Could probably pass it around to the crew here, sure they would appreciate it. WIll talk to the boys.