Just like the title says, has anyone flown both who can make an honest comparison. I'm looking for a depower to sit below my 10m Eskimo and I'm considering a 5m Apex or 6m Access.

The mixer systems seem to be quite similar.

The bar set up quite similar though ozone's a bit more polished and nicer chicken loop.

I'm 145#s and would use the kite boarding at the beach and skiing inland on frozen ponds.

My big debate is over the 1m difference and trying to decide if I want a kite with a little more high end range because it is smaller (5m) or a kite that bridges the gap between the 10m a bit better because its bigger (6m), but I don't really know what the high end range for either will be.

I know ozone has better resale value but I don't plan on selling either once bought.

Has anyone flown either who can offer a real comparison or if anyone has the 6 Access or 5 Apex II can you comment on what you like, don't like and what the real ranges are for the conditions you fly. I know they are reduced lift kites but can you get any lift out of them in their normal range or do you really need to be overpowered (I'm not looking for a lifty high wind kite, but wouldn't mind doing some small jumps with it if the winds are high but smooth).

Thoughts?

I've been going thru the same dilemma (and posted on another board about it)

Except now I may be getting arc fever.

One thing to consider - a used Access II or XC would prob. be a little cheaper than the new Apex II's (until they eventually make the used market as well).

Brian, what you really need is someone with an Apex II to try. I'm sure that Dave would let you have a go on his 6m Access sometime. You're more than welcome to try my 6m, but I haven't been down to Nahant since spring because of the low winds, crowds and the fact that I moved farther north so its now a 90 minute drive for me. You just need an Apex in hand and to get down to Nahant on a breezy fall day so you can fly them back to back. I think that DAKITEZ has a 5m listed for sale. Maybe you could convince him to send it out for a demo??

I really don't feel like the Access has much for lift, but then again I can barely get off the ground with my big Frenzy so I think my technique has a ways to go. Its tough for me to say what the highend is on my 6m. I'd probably say mid to high 20's on snow and low 20's on the landboard.

Thanks Adam (and check your U2Us). I think we're about the same size, give or take a few pounds. What's the low end range on the 6m for you? I've static flown Dave's but never took it out for a spin. He and Paul both have 6s now so I'm assuming I can borrow one of theirs but, like you, I haven't been to Nahant since May and I won't be able to get there for another month or so.

I'm guessing that the low end on the 6m is maybe 15 mph on the hardpack. Any lower and I'd get out the 8m. Its tough for me to guess wind ranges because I don't get the wind meter out all that often. Plus you've got to remember that I'm a non-jumping novice and can't hold down too much power on the landboard. Paul and Dave might have better input.