noob question about kite selection

tqdb · Since 14 Apr 2010 4 Posts Kook

I've gone through several hours of private lessons in Maui and Alameda, California. I'm ready to get some gear and put in some time practicing safely on my own. The shop in Alameda is making me a great deal on a package. Since I'm planning to move up to the Hood River area this summer, I wanted to check with this group what I can expect up there. The shop here is recommending a 7.5 and 10.5 m Naish Cult, and a 134 Naish Momentum board, and they say this will give me a range of about 14mph-35mph winds. (I weigh 170 lb.) My schedule is pretty flexible as far as time of day that I can get on the water. How often will I be able to ride with these kites? Would different sizes be better?

Nick · Wed Apr 14, 10 10:11 am

I think that would be a good quiver. If you where going to get three kites i would suggest the 7.5, 9, 12. But with two kites I think you will get the most amount of days on the 7.5 - 10.5 quiver. You will have a blast in HR this Summer! See you here.

Joshiebaby · Since 14 Oct 2007 569 Posts Vancouver, WA Addicted

tqdb · Since 14 Apr 2010 4 Posts Kook

How many days would I miss out if I don't have a 12?

forrest · Wed Apr 14, 10 10:30 am

Not many.

A good 12m day in Hood River is a special and rare occurrence.

holly · Since 09 Jul 2006 440 Posts Hood River Obsessed

that's a good quiver forsure! you only really need a 12 for later in the day when the wind starts to die down, so if you plan on doing most you kiting 5pm and later a 12 wouldn't be a bad idea, but i have gotten away with a 10m most of the time.

Nick · Wed Apr 14, 10 10:38 am

I don't think you will miss out on that many days. I just think at times you are going to have to decide on being under powered on a 7.5 or over powered on a 10.5.

tjgulizia · Since 06 Feb 2007 123 Posts Hood River Stoked

7.5m/9m/12m is the better choice if you can afford it. Let me know if we can match a deal if you want to do business in your new local! Big Winds, Hood River, OR.
tj@bigwinds.com

windpig · Since 28 Aug 2008 283 Posts Obsessed

Majority rules. However a 9m kite is a go to kite in the Gorge but at 170lbs that 7.5 should be pretty money for you. Another good option is getting more than one board. Cheaper than a kite and it can make a huge difference.

mschulz · Since 29 May 2007 530 Posts Reno, NV Addicted

I agree with having more boards than kites. But I still have a full quiver.

stevegriffith22 · Since 14 May 2006 434 Posts Obsessed

I have a 7.5, 9, 12 and a 140 board and a 132. Its perfect for me. I ride cults too, smooth. Easy to learn tricks on.

sg

tqdb · Since 14 Apr 2010 4 Posts Kook

Thanks for all the advice in here as well as the PM's. I think it's great to have such an active forum for discussing something as experimental as kite sports.

Still not sure what I'll do. I'm going to think about it for another day or 2 before committing. Sounds like I might have to get a second bigger board, and then add a 9 and 12 to my quiver before too long. I could get a 7, 9, and 12 used for the same price as 2 new kites, but I'm drawn to the 2010 gear. I just can't afford a full quiver at new prices.

It sounds like the 7.5 and 10.5 would serve me well most of the time.

forrest · Wed Apr 14, 10 12:39 pm

1) How about calling up TJ@Bigwinds and seeing if they could get competitive with the pricing and help you afford all 3?
2) Get a new 7.5 and 9, and a used 12. Likely to use the 9 the most. 7.5 will be good for those crazy wind days, and 12 will be used the least (Or the most depending on if you get into traveling to other kite spots like the coast where you'll want a 12).

Having all three is going to give you flexibility. You're already going to be spending quite a bit to live up here in the Summer, might as well guaranty yourself the perfect size kites for any of the classic Gorge conditions. Spend less on food over the length of your stay and you can justify the third kite.

Having a couple boards is nice, but I know I like to ride freestyle on the same board most of the time, only switching up boards when I go to the coast.

eric · Since 13 Jan 2006 1867 Posts XTreme Poster

I am not affiliated with Big Winds, nor do I even fly any brands that TJ sells. But, TJ is a great, great guy who I have known for several years. He is honest, and will do whatever he can to earn, and keep your business in an upfront, no BS way.

You did get good advice from your local shop too. 7.5/10 is indeed a good two kite Gorge quiver.

Give him a shot.

Moto · Since 03 Sep 2006 2698 Posts Still a gojo pimp! Moto Mouth

farwellbooth · Since 28 Oct 2008 26 Posts Seattle

I say 7.5 and 10.5. I bought the same Cults last year and a 13.5 and couldn't be happier. Although I rarely use the 13.5.