Select to expand quotePreviously on seebreeze:
Double check the lines are right before you launch,
Whatever you do, just be careful rigging, take your time and double check. Most lines are kook proof these days so screwing it up takes an effort.
Good winds,
Spot on. I am like an old granny setting up and take the extra minute to always run the lines a 2nd time (even if does p!ss Pat off waiting around for a downwinder to start ).
I started to get a little complacent last season and noticed a seasoned vet known around the parts checking her lines at least twice. Slow but smart I reckon. I would bet my lefty the one time I rushed and didn't do em twice I'd cop a flogging as per Murphy's law.
For the record I rig upwind and enjoy pina coladas and getting caught in the rain
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, how I know I screwed up my lines is that I check them. I could even check them seven times by the time Funky has checked his though, seriously man, I've known dead people who move faster than you .
For the record I prefer the sidewind method, not only does it mean less hassles at crowded launches and time saved for the launcher, I like the fact that one does not drag ones lines over the beach and potentially pick up twigs or seaweed or stuff in the process. Just pick up the bar and launch the kite from where you are. Also good for self launching.
IKO teaches set up the lines upwind/downwind and get the student to demonstrate. Kitehard's only rule when teaching instructors is to set up once and check twice. SIMPLE......................................
Not sure if I agree with the whole wind problem of rigging downwind. I have kited at langebaan, Cape town, winds get up to 40 knots +. Your kite creates a small wind shadow at the beginning when you start your lines so they don't blow downwind and by the time you get a little way down, its okay.
Now, it may start to be an issue over 35 or 40 knots, but what beginning is going to be riding in those conditions anyway?
