Rev quirks

Campbell · Since 07 Sep 2008 409 Posts Camas, WA Obsessed

So I've been riding my Revs for 2 seasons now ('08 versions) and I've been experiencing some weird quirks that I'd like to bounce off the forum to make sure they're performing as they should.

1. When sheeting in, my back lines have a tendency to pull the rear of the kite so much that it looks as if the kite is going to invert. At this point I lose power and I've got to immediately sheet out so that it regains it's normal shape and provides pull. It's almost as if it's going to stall when the kite's at 45 degrees and directly downwind.

2. I've dumped the kite a couple of times recently and it's been very difficult to relaunch. Again, the kite has had a tendency to lose it's shape and the tips of the wings have buckled, and in a couple of cases, submerged.

I'm pumping them up to around 10psi, but is this too little? Do I need to get my bridals examined?

I just got my first couple of sessions in this season, but I feel like they were performing much better last year and I'm not sure I'm doing anything differently.

(Here are my settings: Lines attached to 2nd knot on each attachment and I'm usually completely sheeted out at the bar whenever possible as well, and even when sheeted in, this doesn't seem to make much of a difference.)

Any advice is much appreciated.

Cheers,

Colin

pdxmonkeyboy · Mon Jul 19, 10 12:47 pm

Sounds like a bridle issue as none of my rev's act like that and they are the same year.

Check your pulleys and examine your bridles. New bridles are around $80 a piece.

safetychek · Since 07 Nov 2006 72 Posts Hood River

I have owned a couple of Revs, and they do have to be pumped up pretty
hard. Pump gauges mis-read if there is any sand present.

As far as the "back stalling", this is pretty common on bridled kites when
there is too much back line tension, especially lower in the window when
the wind is light. Pull in on your center to relieve some of the tension.

If you are in the Hood River area, I'd be happy to take a look at your
kite setup to make sure it is OK.

-Stu

pkh · Since 27 Feb 2005 6549 Posts Couve / Hood Honored Founder

After 1-2 seasons I'd say replace the bridles, I've been amazed at how much it revives the kite.

You also want to ensure you are pumping the kites up hard, especially if you are going out overpowering conditions.

Nak · Tue Jul 20, 10 7:30 am

Hey Colin, sorry I missed your voicemail! I'll be home next week, hit me up.

We need to check your pump gauge, make sure it's reading right. 10 psi is more than enough. On a REV 1, I think 8 PSI is good. I used to use 9 PSI, but the LE on those kites isn't as strong as the REV 2. I've blown 2 LE's using 9 PSI on the REV 1.

Bring your bars over and we'll check the tune. It sounds like your rear lines are too short maybe. You probably could use new bridals as well.

Campbell · Since 07 Sep 2008 409 Posts Camas, WA Obsessed

You guys are awesome, thanks for the advice. Nak I'll definitely give you a shout when you're back in town and take you up on inspecting my gear. I'll bring the rum!!

Gman · Since 11 Feb 2006 4911 Posts Portland Unstrapped