hi guys have been riding a 12m switchy for quite some time now and want to get a smaller kite but not sure if i should get a 8m or 9m. im 90 kgs ride mostly flat water but just starting to get out and enjoy the surf and will prob head more towards surf from here on
any thoughts appreciated
cheers
Hey Stylast,
like you i ride a 12m kite, i had a flexifoil Atom until i bought an 09 8m Ids switchy second hand for our winter fronts, the kite was so good i sold the flexi and bought a new 12m ids at the end of the season. Only problem was there was a bit of a gap between the 12 and the 8. So i traded in the 8 (and got the same $ back) and got a new 9, much cleaner bar on the 2010, better depower and better bottom and top end. So based on my experience go a 9.
Stylast,
Had the same issue regarding getting a 8 or a 9sb as i have a 12 and another light wind kite. End up going with the 9m after much indecision and debate. I wanted a kite that could handle really strong winds so was initially leaning towards the 8. I am near on 100kgs and have found the 9m to be perfect. I use it from about 25-35 kts comfortably. Its only been out three times this season but those are the best three sessions. Top end got tested Melb Cup day at point henry when winds got to near on 40 knots in the gusts. The 9m handled it well even though i was scared s**less.
In the end it is a trade off between top and bottom end. 10kg will make a difference so you might be able to get away with the 8 (also depends on what your riding)
But i am very happy with the 9m.
Cheers
i've got a 12m ids and a 10m ids....actually a really good combo for where i live - thought a 9 would have been better but if it's going to be uncomfortable on the 12 it's already good on the 10 - really minimises the "should have rigged the other one" factor. Very rarely get winds where I'm overpowered on the 10 (more a higher end wind range kite). But i would definately ony go to the 9m. IMHO the 12 IDS is getting to be a handful near the 18 - 20 knot mark which would be very marginal with the 8.
