Hey all,
I've had a 12m Convert for about a year now (since new) and am thinking its time to add a 9m to the quiver (now that the addiction is complete 
). I can get a 2nd hand Convert that has been used in lessons, but before I commit - what should I look out for?
Logic would tell me - inflate the kite, listen for leaks, and inspect the lines / bar for wear. Are there any other specific things to take note of when buying a 2nd hand kite? Any little tests that will help me tell if the kite is a lemon?
The other option is a new kite - which I haven't ruled out either. In which case, are there any advantages or disadvantages to having 2 sizes in exactly the same kite? I like the idea because of familiarity - or do you guys mix your brands?
Cheers,
bucko
pretty much what you said look for obvoius signs of discoloration scratch marks on the leeding edge. and your best bet is to fly it if possible. this will give you an idea if the lines need tuning.
but i would definatly check out another couple of kites and demo a few before you buy man, you might find something you like alot more than the convert and your 9 can become your favourite toy :) i own 4 different kinds of kites lol it takes about 15 min of using one if say i hadnt been using it in a couple of weeks to get used to it agian then its fine.
you could always buy my 9metre 08 best nemisis which is pretty much new for 1100 or my 08/09 hadlow pro 9 metre also 1100.. but that ones a c kite so not really reccomended unless you want that kind of kite :)
The pig tales on the kite and bar are a good indicator of how worn the kite is so it would be a good idea to check them too.
If you like the 12m of the brand you are using, you will likely to love the 9m. The problem starts the other way around: you love your 9 and the 12 may prove to be a pig.
Solution: fly it before you buy it.
Check the trailing edge for wear, looks similar to little cracks everywhere aound 2 inchs off the TE. Usually tells you if the kite has been sitting on the beach flapping away or has been used a lot.
Check the seams for dodgy stitching aswell.
Cheers
Rich
Check where the pullies run also, another indicator of the amount of use, but if it has been used for lessons, you know it has constanly been crashed, day after day after day, get one from a normal kiter, that has had a normal amount of use, probabily still day after day, but by an experienced kiter (or at least a familar and improving kiter). Not a new newbie each day.. 2 cents
manicskier, prolly a good point there - the kite may have indeed been crashed pretty much every day. The LE would need to undergo a pretty thorough inspection I'm tipping.
H2Ofly, ta for the offer - but if I'm goign to spend over $1k, I'm happy to spend the tiny bit extra to buy a new kite. Good luck with your sale though
richswing, ta for the tip on the TE - wouldna thought of that.
Cheers all round guys!
i would see if i could pump it up and leave it for a few hours and see if it goes down. nothing worse than a slow leak
