hi everyone im new here, im a 20 yr old ucla student looking to get into this sport....problem is i dont know what kite to purchase

im 170lbs, 6 ft and im looking for mostly scudding and occassional jumping, so i guess im just looking for something that gives lift at a decent price..any ideas?

Welcome to the forum bro.

http://www.powerkiteforum.com/viewthread.php?tid=6821

I suggest you start reading as much as you can on here before you purchase anything and ask questions

any flying experience?

if not i would suggest a trainer to understand the basics first

depending on your areas wind

move up to a 3m to 5m afterwards.

there are probably some folks on here in your area, that will post shortly. i suggest to meet up with them first and get some local advice, and get to try out some different kites.
once you're hooked it will get expensive ... i havent personally seen anyone stay with just scudding and jumping after they've seen a mtn board or buggy.

my wooden nickel thought

what the others said...

do more research, won't take long, ask some better questions and you'll get in touch with local kiters in short order!

find out what the winds are in your area, figure out where your nearest big beach is would be best, post some of that information as well, that will also help you get somebody to teach you.

an hour or two flying with somebody experienced will give you an excellent start, and make sure you don't waste your student dollars!

welcome to the forum, btw....

furbs

Your best bet is to hook up with some locals and go from there.

Susan (npw goddess)

YES, Do another post looking for kiters in your area. You are lucky. I'm pretty sure you are near a few. There is nothing more valuable than hanging out with the locals to get tips ( + deals ) on gear !

The most recommended starter package is the H.Q. Beamer. Most folks start on a 3m. You are big enough that you just may want to start with a 4m . I think you get low winds around L.A. ????

I have NEVER heard of a person buying a 3m Beamer as a starter kite that has come back and said it was the wrong choice. It is a complete package with all the extra safety gear you would normally have to buy on top + an instructional DVD. A Beamer will re-sell easy at a good price. Very few folks ever sell them.

what BR said, if you are too impatient to get in touch with the locals the beamer is a beginner's kite that has stood the test of time....

www.dakitez.com is somewhat local, californian anyways (I think...?), i do know its a kinda big state, the guy behind that site seems to be a good people person.

thanks for the info...ive been reading alot. where can i find out if there are any locals in socal?

Try a post with meeting folks in SoCal as the title on here.