Yes, a sliding bar needs some time to get used to. After years of jybing and toe riding against the pull of the kite (fixed hook) the freedom of hip rotation feels strange at first. Using long sliding rope will shoot the purpose somewhat and significantly reduces depower reach (for guys with shorter arms, like me). The rope should be as tight as possible while still allowing the hook to slide all the way. There is a synchrony between the kite movement and the rotation of the hip which may take a while to feel. But after that it's just like walking...
If you have and old spreader bar the setup costs you $0 and about 15min.
Nothing beats, of course, riding unhooked. But for that you need a larger surfboard and small kite. With smaller boards (needing more kite power) unhooked gets difficult especially in gusty winds....
Another aspect of it is that you have more freedom with the timing of jumps, if it is still your thing (as it is mine)....
I've been using the very same setup for about 5-6 years.
Cheers

set up one of these babies this arvo,




anyone see any problems with it ? tried to get some tension in the line to allow for some slack after knots tighten

hopefully might be able to give it a run tomorrow

still have the spreader bar hook, I could engineer an eye for the rope - if not happy with the clip in place (handle load ?)