Hey Gang... so I just picked up my first depow (HQ M5) and I realized a couple of things ... A. I don't have a standard hook style Spreader bar, and B. nor do I have a leash.

poop... more stuff to buy

Anywho... I DO have a captive system set up for my harness with a PL Link style spreader with a Wichard QR snap shackle set up for handles and strops...
Here's the Bar: http://www.peterlynn.com/accessories/harnesses-spreaders/spr... (heads up the Link spreader is about half way down the page)

So here's what I'm wondering,...

1. Can I use either the Snap shackle to hold the chicken loop or maybe even a high quality carabiner and utilize the link spreader instead of a whole new bar?... thoughts?

2. Anyone have a recommendation on a good, inexpensive leash? Or even a spare they might donate to the cause

thanks

If you are looking for a inexpensive leash, the Slingshot Pull Quick Release Leash is currently on sale at Kiteboarding.com for $19.99 (List Price: $49.99).

If you are going to be using the leash mostly in the buggy you might want to opt for a shortly leash, so there is less chance of it dragging on the ground and snagging something whiling riding.

PKS MINI (Micro) Slider Release Leash - $29.95
(length = 22 inches (55cm)) Short, but still shock-corded.

Ozone Short (Micro) Leash - $29.95
Micro is not an understatement. It basically goes from the spreader bar to the chicken loop with a minimum of slack. No shockcord.




Caribiner should be fine. You might want to look for one with a smooth profile that doesn't abrade the PU on the chicken loop.

ATB,
Sam

That link spreader bar looks like a D ring?...and would be perfect if you're chicken loop is the type to swing open on activation of the safety...? Just pass the CL through the D ring. You wouldn't need the donkey dk either.

Carabiner would work but would place the bar further away from you.

Thanks guys,... I like that leash Sam... I may get one....

Ok, so obviously the leash is a safety feature... How exactly does it provide safety?

It papers to be attached to the front lines, so how does it help, when you have to deploy?

The leash just helps recover the kite if you have to release the chicken loop. It attaches to the safety line to keep kite flagged out. At least that's how it works on an arc.

to use the link just open the cl .. pass through the link and reassemble. The good thing about this is the cl is closer to you. This is important for someone with short arms like me as it gets the bar closer to you
or just hook the cl into your wichard. Either way no real need to get a standard spreader.
I use the standard "hook" style. This way I can use de-power and then when I switch to handles I just snap my wichard onto it. But I have been planning to switch over to the link spreader for awhile now and do just as I told you above. Your already a step ahead of me