Radsail 1.45M

I have a 1.4 that I got a week ago as a trainer kite. The price can't be beat.

Anyways I was pleased with the way it came packaged in a nice neat little pouch. Instructions are terrible, but not really essential even for a complete newbie like me... I learned enough doing basic on line research to fly it.

I was disappointed in how well (poorly) it flew in lighter winds. Constantly luffing, crumpling up, lackluster speed, poor response etc. Also when I flew it in higher winds the bridle line attachment loop (same material as the stacking lines broke twice. I replaced it with a 100 lb sleeveed spectra loop. and had no more problems even when it was pulling me off balance in 25-30 knot winds.

However I was able to largely cure these problems with a few simple steps...

First replace the lines with lighter ones... Like 100lb (50kg) sprectra ones. This helps it get off the ground in light winds and improves response to control inputs.

Second remove the stacking lines if you aren't stacking this kite, and if you are consider replacing with heavy duty spectra bits. (see comment above about breaking the loops). Removing the stackers helps the kite fly due to less drag and weight.

Finally to improve stability shorten the very end lines on the bridle. These lines which attach to the cloth triangles on each end. Shortening them up improves the stability and reduces the tendency to collapse/luff and wad up. Now you can reliably fly it to the edge of the window without it turning into a bag of washing. It also slightly reduces the power of the kite in high winds....

Try different lengths. I find a small figure 8 knot with about a 3/4" (1.5cm) loop works best. In higher winds its less of an issue and if you don't want the reduced power effects you can undo the knots and let it out.

Overall a fun and very fast kite in higher winds. Certainly enough to get me hooked. I want more!

By : Rapt