Libre Speedy II

OK, my first reasonable kite, so what useful information can I give? Well, I have had it for a couple of months now and have recently aquired a Kinnell Fusion, so at least I have something to compare it to.

First thing to say is that you get the kite and lines and handles in a bag with a drawstring at the top. No fancy rucksacks, the bag is only one step away from a Tesco bag, but then you can always stick it in a rucksack you have already or buy one you like the look of.

The lines provided have stitched loops at each end, so you can't easily adjust length, although the design of the kite allows for this with long leaders from the brakes so you can adjust the length of brake until you have it right. At least the lines were equal.

The kite itself seems well made and I have had no problems at all with it. Although Libre get a reputation for quality, I think my Kinnell is better. I had a brief look at a PKD Buster which seemed cheap in comparison with either.

Kite inflates easily even in light winds and flies straight to zenith. I have rarely overflown even when deliberately trying to. Likewise, very stable at the edge of the wind window, hardly ever luffs.

Seems to fly with a slight fold in trailing edge, but I don't think this takes anything away from performance.

Very fast through the air and sharp turning. For a small kite in sub 20mph winds still provides reasonable pull and even some lift if you are deliberately trying for it.

Several friends and family (including my 6 year old son in very light winds) have given the kite a go and have all got the hang of it quickly. Seems to combine speed when you want it with forgiving stability.

In summary I really enjoy this small kite, have flown it in loads of different conditions and it performs really well. I suppose in retrospect it is expensive at approx £150 when you could buy competitors more cheaply, but I am hoping that the brand reliability will mean I will have this for many years to come.

By : castle