It will be less likely to actually find some one who have tried both of them
but I had 08 Cult and 09 Cult.
I would say that 09 12m Cult is a very good kite for beginners
Both are find for a beginner. I know riders of both kites and they're happy with them.
Personally i'd go with the Naish... but that's just because i'm a little bit biased.
ive used 7.5 cult and 9 rise both are great for learning.. the rise has a lot of low end grunt so perhaps a 10 could be more suitable depending on ur wind strengths
I have ridden both. I would say go the Rise. Especially if you are comparing the older 08 Cult. The Rodeo's tougher construction would definitely be an advantage to a newbie. Once the UV starts getting to the high tension Geotech canopy bad things start to happen.
Also, the OR bottom end makes it an easier park and ride type kite, dont need to work it as much once it gets light.
Rode the new 2010 OR 12m in 25+ knts and pretty comfortable. It was my friends and i would normally be on my RRD Hyper type 9m pretty powered, the range on that thing is incredible. There would be no way i would be on my 12 i would have been blown off long ago. Its a royal era.
Haven't been on the naish.