We usually take a quick glance on launch to make sure it's coming up right, but the adjustments after that are usually by feel. Once in the air, I don't look at it unless I'm getting bounced around the sky. If I'm flying straight and smooth, the wing is doing its job.

What is the best transition from standing to getting in the buggy. Which side do you mount from? Do you start with the kite moving in the direction you're pointing or get it still before sitting down and then fly it toward the direction you want to go? What path should the kite be on to get it moving into the power zone? I hope that question makes sense. Is there an optimum angle for the kite to be flying to get the most power, or is that just a "feel" thing? To slow down for turning, do you bring the kite back to 12:00? Are turn-arounds always made down wind?

Sorry if these are dumb questions, but I've actually never seen anyone buggying close enough to pay attention to those details, and most videos I've watched show the buggies already in motion. If there is a video somewhere that covers this, I'd like to find it.

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the feedback. On other forums, folks aren't always as nice and helpful as you have been.
Be safe and have fun!
Danny

I just started buggying, so I am certainly no expert, but I will tell you how I do these things. Also, I think it will greatly help to get out and buggy with some people in your area. I know that we have some members in your area.

Most importantly, make sure you are flying the right kite for the conditions. I have made the mistake of going too big. It wasnt much fun.

What side mount from?... I get in the buggy from downwind. This is just in case the wind drags me a bit, I dont get combed over my buggy.

I keep the kite directly overhead until I feel secure in the buggy, then I bring the kite down in the direction that I want to travel.

What path should the kite be on to get it moving into the power zone?... There are a couple that I like to use, depending on my speed, wind speed, and how much balls I have at the moment... To start with, sine the kite into and out of the power zone. This basically means just fly the kite towards zenith, and then back down into the power zone.... then repeat. The ballsy move is the power-loop, make sure that the kite is able to do a complete loop, and bring the kite all the way around (up, or down) and back onto the tack you were on (careful, this can bring LOTS of power), you will probably be a few feet downwind . The loop is also tough on your equipment.

Is there an optimum angle for the kite to be flying to get the most power, or is that just a "feel" thing?... The angle that I feel has the most power when I am buggying is about 40 degrees from the ground. To tweak a bit more power out of the kite when you are moving, give the brakes a little tug!

To slow down for turning, do you bring the kite back to 12:00?.... That is one way to do it, just remember to steer upwind. I dont always bring the kite up to zenith to slow for a turn, but I always do to stop. Besides... turning under full power is quite a bit of fun, albeit that is where all of my OBE's (out of buggy experiences) have happened... so be careful.

Are turn-arounds always made down wind?... I have some buddies that are working on the upwind turns, but I havent tried them on for size, yet. So, yes, you can turn upwind, but I dont know how you do it.

All of that said... check out this link, I found it very useful.
http://www.awindofchange.com/lessons/lesson3-2.html