good kite or bad kite?

Hack · Since 02 Aug 2011 5 Posts Kook

i was actually e-mailing that guy about the rev before i post on here, but saw that waroo and got drawn in by the price. i guess ill have to go check it out now. its in my price range and looks like a nice kite

ericvs · Since 05 Jul 2008 133 Posts Stoked

Newer is better, but not kiting or going into debt for a hobby is lame. The 2006 is a good kite. The initial release of these kites had the leading edge seam issue, but the later 2006 versions (and beyond) fixed this.

The inverting issue happened when you were flying the kite way depowered. It is easily fixed with a simple modification to the bridle (this was standard on the 2007s). You can probably get the part from best (or just make it yourself). You can also fly the 2006 with any 4 line bar with all lines equal length.

You are also going to be beating the ass off whatever kite you get at first, so that might be a good choice until you get more proficient at flying, then you can move up to something newer and not abuse it as much.

Also, as mentioned, the bridles might be stretched so you might not be getting the most high performance kite, but I doubt you will notice from the body drag position heading downwind (haha).

Good luck with whatever decision you make.

p.s. TAKE LESSONS PLEASE.

SalmonSlayer · Since 27 Nov 2005 648 Posts Addicted **CGKA Member**

Chipotle · Since 26 Mar 2011 70 Posts

OK, this will be my first time giving advice... hope it helps.

The most important investment you can make is good lessons. Lessons also come with free gear, so yes you're paying for lessons which aren't cheap, but you’re getting free gear for the day. There’s no point in buying gear, in my opinion, until you are comfortably staying up wind and can sustain sessions on your own to work on riding skills, transitions, etc. And not make gear-destroying mistakes on your investments:)

I just bought a quiver of 2007 Waroos, well cared for, for $900. I also bought a used board, and a used harness. The only thing I bought new were a helmet and a wetsuit. I think used gear is the way to go as a beginner, even older gear, as long as you’ve had enough lessons and you’re at a stage where you’re not pushing the limits. I am currently working on transitions, riding goofy, and generally increasing my comfort level in new environments. I honestly probably couldn’t tell the difference between a 2007 Waroo or a 2011 Taboo-I just don’t have enough experience to appreciate the unique characteristics of kites and boards, and don’t push the equipment enough to really feel it. Skiing on the other hand, I can feel the difference of .01mm of sidecut or rocker on my skis, and know exactly what I want. Until I get to this point kiting, I’m sticking with used gear that fits my budget. Be patient, and you will find a good deal. But also be prepared to spend money, because this is an expensive sport.

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

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