suggestions on kite size for smaller rider..

Bigbeezer · Since 31 Aug 2008 33 Posts Portland, OR

Looking to purchase a larger (used) kite, have always flown 9M (I have a 9M bow and 9M C kite) and am still in beginner stages. Any suggestions on a good all-around kite that I can fly in lighter winds (is 12M too large for me?). Generally would be flying in Gorge and Oregon Coast, but would be nice to use for trips to other locations. Thought I would throw this out to see if some kiters with more experience have thoughts on this. I weigh about 160lbs. and find my 9M works great, but it seems to have to be a minimum of 10 knots or more to use it effectively.

kyle.vh · Since 11 Jul 2007 713 Posts city of angels Addicted

this comes up a lot. someone might be able to point out a good link, try searching.
I am 150lbs. I use a 7/11m combo. No, 12m won't be too big for you.
Folks heaver than us use 13m (and some use bigger), but you wont need that if you have a decent sized lightwind board.

Pete · Since 29 Oct 2007 844 Posts Opinionated

Do you really want to go out if it is less than 10 knots? If your 9M works in those conditions, I'd say you don't need anything bigger. Going out in less than 10 knots is just not worth it.

Bettyboarder · Fri Sep 05, 08 1:55 pm

I weight a bit less then you and I usually ride a 5, 7, 9, 11. Mostly the 5,7 in the gorge and the 11 in pdx. I would say get a 7 and a 11.

Keep an eye out in the classified section...all the new kites are coming out so people will probably start selling there stuff from this year at good deals.

twostates · Since 28 Aug 2007 101 Posts pdx Stoked

Betty don't you get a lot of use out of the 9? I use the hell out of my 9 rev..

jcohenx · Since 28 Aug 2007 250 Posts Portland Obsessed

I'm 160 and I have a 7 and a 9 but this year I really wished I had an 11 or 12 as well to complete the quiver.

pdxmonkeyboy · Sat Sep 06, 08 9:56 am

I would second the 12 size. If your kiting in 8 knots with a 9m I would think that that is "barely" kiting. Nothing more frustrating than underpowered kiting. Seems like you need both a 7 and a 11-12 to round things out. I have a 06 12M crossbow for sale if your interested. $350 complete.

Bigbeezer · Since 31 Aug 2008 33 Posts Portland, OR

Thank you everyone, I think I'll aim for 11m or 12m.

Happy Kiting!