HI Guys,
Im just wondering can I fly my newly bought 12m Cabrinha in 8-10knot winds without having a major disaster on my hands. Only asking because I don't fancy shelling out another load of dosh on a ''trainer kite'' and thought I could ''train'' with my kite in light winds. Thanks for your replys cheers

If you're dead set against shelling out for an expensive trainer kite, then make a stunt kite, and practice with that. This can cost around $10 in materials if you know what you're doing, is lots of fun, and teaches kite control.

Even in 10 knots you can get dragged with your 12m if you're not confident in your skills, and is actually more difficult than in 15 knots.

Trainer kites are much cheaper than hospital stays. Find a second hand one if need be but new ones are only like $150. When your 12m falls into the middle of the window in a lull, then a gust drags you down the beach, you'll appreciate what I'm saying.

Hey Olly84,

I bought a 12m Cabrinha Switchblade 2010, I am still very new to the sport and I train with mine (without going on the water) in up to 12 knot winds, it get s a little strong, but if you've had a few lessons it should be fine.

Also take a buddy along who can help when you feel it is getting too strong, just so he can help you with the landing. A wife also works well and is sometimes funny seeing her running after a kite...:)

in lighter wind keep the kite moving
it creates wind!!
called apparent wind

hot launch helps get it up , b carefull

it will drop out of sky
avoid objects

and being a cabinha
keep out of trees

remo81 said...

Have a go. Do it some were you have nothing down wind of you. 'Just smash it up hey'. Flying a kite is way eaiser than people let on. The "instructors" just want to make some cash out of you.

Did you get lessons to learn how to ride a bike or a motor bike? Just use the common sense that most of us have and dont let other people intimidate you and tell you that you need lessons.

Did the Guys that invented the sport get lessons?

Ive done kite in bout 10-12 just keep in moving.

What planet did you fall from. Thats the worst peice of advice i have ever seen on a forum. Do you stick a learner driver in a car and say have a go mate you will only hit a few things before you get it right

^^^ L O S E R ^^^

Just an update guys- I decided enough was enough, got myself a cheap trainer which ain't that fun (but the missus loves) Def worth practicing on. Then went all out and got lessons. Found a great K/instructor, gave me all the confidence to use the power of the wind and by the second lesson I was up on the board (though not for long and enjoying one face-plant) So give it a few more hours practice and I should be kiting in summer.

So to cap as there is a few people reading this- Definitely get some lessons, as one guy told me it's ''Cheap life insurance''

Instructors No. 0406520121 Kite Sports (Half the price of competitors in Sydney)

Yea Yea Well just trying to give everyone a fair go