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New to the scene: What kite to buy / what bar fits on what?

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Created by FlyingDutchman > 9 months ago, 5 Dec 2018
FlyingDutchman
NSW, 3 posts
5 Dec 2018 9:31AM
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Hi guys,

Very new to the kitesurfing and excited to get started.
Just in the process of getting all the gear needed, and currently looking at a second hand 2015 North Neo 11m.
I'm 80KG and living in Sydney; Would this be a good kite to get started with? Maybe combined with something smaller? Or could I better get a 12/13m and something smaller?
Also, if this would indeed be a good kite, could I get any bar that has 4 wires (is this what they call quad), or should it be a North bar?

If tried to google, but hope you guys have some more clearer answers and help.

Cheers!
Jeroen

jms
NSW, 131 posts
5 Dec 2018 10:21AM
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11m sounds good as a first Sydney kite, and it will work in the typical noreaster sea breezes. I haven't used a Neo, but I imagine it will do well as a first kite as the things that make a good surf kite also make it a good beginner kite (easy relaunch, pull and go, no worries about overflying).

Later you'll want a small kite (8m?) for stronger winds, and maybe a light wind kite if you're keen on the light days. No need to rush out and buy those though.

Generally most modern kites work on an equal length four string bar, but it looks like North uses a "high y" so might not fly 100% on the more common "low y" bar. Especially as a beginner I'd get a matching North bar.

You'll also need lessons, so ask your teacher when you start. Flying a trainer kite is safe enough by yourself (somewhere not crowded!), but the large kites could take a finger or throw you high into the air and then onto rocks. My tip is that when you're learning to waterstart body drag out far enough that if you lose control your kite won't hit land.

Good luck!

FlyingDutchman
NSW, 3 posts
5 Dec 2018 10:39AM
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jms said..
11m sounds good as a first Sydney kite, and it will work in the typical noreaster sea breezes. I haven't used a Neo, but I imagine it will do well as a first kite as the things that make a good surf kite also make it a good beginner kite (easy relaunch, pull and go, no worries about overflying).

Later you'll want a small kite (8m?) for stronger winds, and maybe a light wind kite if you're keen on the light days. No need to rush out and buy those though.

Generally most modern kites work on an equal length four string bar, but it looks like North uses a "high y" so might not fly 100% on the more common "low y" bar. Especially as a beginner I'd get a matching North bar.

You'll also need lessons, so ask your teacher when you start. Flying a trainer kite is safe enough by yourself (somewhere not crowded!), but the large kites could take a finger or throw you high into the air and then onto rocks. My tip is that when you're learning to waterstart body drag out far enough that if you lose control your kite won't hit land.

Good luck!


Thanks JMS, extremely helpful!

Appreciate the concern also, starting lessons tomorrow so will indeed ask as well. Just keen to scan for all the gear asap, with a lot of good weather and free time coming up!



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"New to the scene: What kite to buy / what bar fits on what?" started by FlyingDutchman