First Kite

pretty sure indo kiteboarding is a scam.

kiteforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=2375378&p=746909

The list looks a good one. The BWS pro is a really specialised wave kite and the power delivery will not be as 'obvious'. While it is a very good wave kite I'd take that off your list to be honest right now. All the others would be a great start. The lithuim does prefer a heavier rider as your top end at your prospective weight will be curtailed as at 76kg you will find it harder to push it to the edge of the window. But that being said it is a very very stable platform with obvious power generation and very smooth.

Personally I'd add a wainmen smoke and a 2013 ozone catalyst to that list. Very stable platforms and after a while depending on your progression, you will be able to move into the freestyle parts of the sport you said you may like to. These are two great kites for that.

Then it comes down to what you can get for your budget, year and usage wise.

While others might disagree I would really recommend you see a notable retailer and work with them. They can advise, fix any issues that might arise with a second hand kite and you can then start developing a relationship with them for the long term. Even now I'm still tapping into these guys heads for information and advice.

Size wise, will let others comment. Size is also dependant on what kite you actually choose.

Thanks both to your replies.

@ Eppo, I would like to get to wave riding when confidence and skill level allow. This is the reason, I listed the BWS Noise Pro. From early reviews, it looks like there is a big jump from 2013 and earlier to the new 2014 model. I'll review the Wainman smoke and Ozone Catalyst. I hadn't considered those brands as there were so many out there. Good tip about building a relationship with a local retailer though. The ones I went to had plenty of tips. It was just the sizing that confused me.

@snalberski, I'm not fussed about 4/5 line. My only concerns is the potential risk of ripping the kit in the surf. I understand that this is very rare but it is still a risk. Having said that, I may have a second kite by the time I'm ready to tackle the surf so it could be a moot point.

Is it wrong to pick a kite by colour? I really like the red/black of the BWS. Hate the North colours though 2011 North Rebel (black) looks awesome. THe rest are a ok. The only other kite I liked the look of were the RRD Addictions/Obsessions but these are not for beginners. The colour thing would be a small after thought when I'm out, but in review video/photos and thinking about my kite when not in use, will feel like crap. Essentially, I'll be spending north of $1500 for something that I may not like the look of. At the end of the day, I'll get over it if I get one with a crappy colour.

Yeh the evo would also be a great option mate. Does a bit of everything, great build and a really stable platform.

Sure you want to get into wave riding which is cool, but initially you want a kite with obvious power, a bit of obvious grunt that gets you planning easily. All those all rounders will take you well beyond in the waves before you take the straps off and get serious.

The BWs pro is a really good kite, but it needs to be worked, you need to be able to fly a kite well to get the most out of it. It is quick and nimble but is on and off in power delivery so you can kill the power, drift down the line then crank it on when you want. Plus if you want to get into some freestyle as well down the track then this neither kites are really suitable.

I rate the BWs pro up there With the REO, but you are not at all ready for that.

Don't get me wrong on could get that kite and eventually be fine, but starting out something like an evo, smoke, lithuim, catalyst etc would be better.

10m would be fine at 76 to start and something like the evo has a really good bottom end so you can get out in lighter winds to learn which is always recommended.

Also great you have lessons but make sure you also hook up with a local kiter to mentor you a bit early on and look out for you.

Another one to consider is a 2013 Airush wave, will give you that wave ability, some freestyle unhooking ability and is very easy to jump.

I'd say the dice to, but first gen, no second hand ones out there and they are bloody pricey.

Ozone catalyst possibly reo both would give you free ride and wave in future. Boards , a 132 and 140 will cover you. A 12 and 9 for current weight would cover you from12/28 knots add smaller kite later as you gain experience. Buying local gives you advantages in service , warranty , advice and deals in future. Demos are available for above from Jason westoz boardsports. He also has crazyfly and blade kites and 2nd hand which you could consider, stay safe happy kiting

Yep the renegade is worth checking out. There is a new 4g running around. Another is the blade trigger although they went fairly high aspect in 2013. I have a 2014 in the shed right now, Jason has asked for some feedback (not a review don't panic guys!!), but I'm waiting for some decent wind and swell although right now this proposed south Easter down here has turned gloriously south.

Every time I look in the sky I cringe. But hey some crew love them. They do stand out that's for sure. But its the wing that counts, not the colours, unless you are a metrosexual wannabe. Wing is all that matters. Lucky I don't look at my kites very often nowadays...lol

Yeh go and see a good retailer as mentioned here and they will sort you. As you said you only want one kite but as said above two would be ideal. ...and safer.

It is not a low aspect kite. If you want to consider Gaastra, look for the Hatch. The 2013 (and older) Hatch is their freeride kite. If you can get a good deal on an Ozone Catalyst 10m, go for it.

Flyty! I just finished lessons my self , I then bought a second hand 12 meter 2010 cabrinha switchblade , and I couldn't be happier , it's got plenty of adjustment for various wind strength so you can increase your power levels gradually as you improve , and it is a nice stable predictable kite . I did my lessons on a rebel 10 meter and I couldn't keep the damned thing in the air . But the cabrinha is fantastic ! That's my pick for a first kite!:)