Figuring out kite control, now ready for board purchase

WindpowerMarcus · Since 28 Aug 2009 12 Posts New Member

I just started figuring out bodydragging upwind on my 10m Havok. I would like tips on a good beginner board that is cheap but appropriate for my level (with maybe some room to grow. I am 5'10' 200 lbs. Suggestions appreciated.

-Marcus

TWIN-FIN · Since 24 May 2006 805 Posts Portland, OR Hot Monkey

Dude,
That board that Blake from Gorge Performancerecommended to you is perfect.
I was there when you called and made my recomendation.....real time Very Happy

Wind Slither · Since 04 Mar 2005 2624 Posts The 503 METAL

Power M.

Board quiver variety is the spice of life! Start with a good twin on the bigger side, but don't stop there!

And find some graphics you like...no matter how good a board is, you not gonna like it if you hate looking at it.

Thumb's Up

krazedkiter · Since 08 Jun 2009 183 Posts Florida Stoked

Hey there.

When reading information on what board or kite is applicable to you, you need to account for your weight. The industry uses an average kiter weight to base ratings on. That weight is about 165 lbs. Go figure, I would like to see the anorexic kiters they use in this survey Shocked

So, your 200 lbs is a bit bigger then the "average" kiter. For kite range at your weight, take off about 3-4 knots from the low end performance.

You will also need a bigger board then some use. Probably no less than a 138 cm long board by say 39 or more cm wide. (138x39)..for now, other boards later.. It also depends alot on the typical wind you are subject to. If your average wind you train in is 15 knots or more, then you can start with the 138x39. If your avergae wind is lower than that, maybe even a bigger board such as those by Crazy Fly Cruiser Pro, Spleene, etc. Some companies have signature lines for bigger light wind boards so take your pick.

Observe the style of riding written by the manufacturer and the type of bottom configuration the board has. The flatter and less concave the board is, the les "slippery" the board wil be on the water. Avoid quad concave or even (double concave in some cases) bottom boards.

And remember, shops deal and wil try and sell you the brands they stock. So, be carefull and understand that thy may push something on you that is only about the brands they have. With that in mind, visit 2 or 3 shops that each sell different brands. If there arent that many physical shops in your area, contact an on-line store. Tell them your skill level, weight, riding conditions, what size kites you have, etc. Listen to the board they recommend. Now, once you have a selection of recommendations (say 1 from each brand), go on line and read the company website about the product. Does it describe you? Also, google the board and see what disucssion points pop up. Then make your selection.

Remeber, that most of us have 2 or 3 boards for riding style and wind type. The first board you get will not always be the one you will keep. For now, stick with one board until you know the difference.

Good luck!

Duckfoot · Since 30 Jun 2009 6 Posts Eugene New Member

I would say that the best spark is a pretty good board to start off with. Its pretty inexpensive for a new board, and i used one for a while till i upgraded to an underground. If you can get a used board that also might be a good option as they will cost you a ton less. The main downside to my spark was that it was a little heavy, but its from a few years back so that might have changed. If you can afford it though, I would highly recommend an Underground FLX. Quite simply it is the best all around board out there. I ride the 135 and love it, great for light wind, its fast, and can hold its edge in high wind.

krazedkiter · Since 08 Jun 2009 183 Posts Florida Stoked

Duck,

I dont think the FLX is a great starter board. I have the same board and love it. It is my favorite oard so far......But it is a quad concave bottom and is very slippery on the water. It takes a little to get used to and not ideal for someone who has not got on the board yet.

The Spark is a good inexpensive option but like some of the other inexepnsive starter boards out there they are heavy.