I have been searching the forums for two months to get an answer to this question:
Which kite should I get for light winds?
The problem is that there are a lot of contradictions out there for a novice like me. Specifically, I have read that a big kite is better for light wind because it has more surface area (this is supported by manufacturer's wind charts), BUT I have also read that a smaller kite is better for light winds because you can fly it faster and thus create more 'lift'. (This is supported by my watching Col and Ian rip around on a 13 and a 12, while I couldn't go upwind on a 15 - all bow kites. Also, I swear I can go better on my 11m T2 in 15 knots than I can on a 14m T2 in the same wind, but there are just so many variables, it's hard to tell.)
Is there anyone who can confidently answer the following:
I am 90kg. I have an 11m T2. I live in Newcastle, NSW. I want to go out in 12 to 14 knot onshore wind in 2 to 4 foot waves. At the moment, 15 knots is my lower limit on the T2. I know my flying has to improve, but given my current skills and the same board, what kite can I get that will get me out there sooner than my 11m T2?
(For those who would like to tell me to get a bigger board, I went much better on Lachlan's 5 foot twintip than on my 6 foot 7" surfboard in light wind the other day. This is also a contradiction I have found in the forums.)
Thanks for your help...