Speleopower's comments re fixed bridle kites and general advice to size for the gusts makes total sense. And his abilities with open cell, FB foils on water are indisputable...there's no way I'd try what he does on water. But I think the generic comparison of a Blade foil to tube kite as fighter jet to Cessna is flat out wrong. There are huge ranges in performance within any type of kite, and characterizing one type of construction as at one end of performance and one at another is misleading.

Can't comment on what wind conditions are like at Cocoa Beach, but I do know whether flying on Long Beach Peninsula or on the OB, the variations in wind speed are a heck of a lot less than anything we typically get in eastern Minnesota. Although I started with FB on handles and still love flying them, I more and more use the twinskins or bows.

krumly

Quote:

But I think the generic comparison of a Blade foil to tube kite as fighter jet to Cessna is flat out wrong

:shocked2::shocked2:Surely you jest. Of course Blades are the best. Ok, I'll stop pouring fuel on the fire now.

In terms of aerodynamics and effective use of the wind, I dont think that comparison is that far off. But you could say that about fixed-bridles vs depower kites generally speaking.

:dunno:

everyone should go buy tube kites, and then sell to me ,all your FBs at a great discount. Since they suck

Winds around here on the beach are awesome steady. Sometimes so steady it's scary. Light but scary steady most of the time.
As the wind gets stronger and stronger then you can use a less and less aerodynamic kite and still maintain performance. My two tube kites are a 6 meter and a 4 meter.

Open cell foils are just so convenient to use and just don't wear out very fast at all I just can't justify the expense and complications of a new tube kite knowing it will be nearly worthless in a year or two if it lasts that long.

As long as your having fun who cares what your riding.

-Scott