Dingoman wrote:moreover, since this is about starting on an F arc, how would you rate it for water-begginer (windsurfer) though land-experienced?
F-Arc for a beginner? Nah, I don't think so. You'll be too frustrated swimming in from the multiple times you drop it. It doesn't fall easy, but beginners can make all sorts of things happen!
Windrange: I can only compare my F14 with my S-840.
Since I'm probably the only one in the world with this kite in this size, you need to do a little projecting to figure out what you want. The 840 has a bit better upper end than the F. The F a better lower end. The F starts going in 10knots I would say, but it's no fun. Even with the mods cut down from a F1600, it stalls easy and doesn't turn well in light winds. I don't recommend it as a light wind kite. But when the wind starts picking up, I find myself on the F even when it's more comfortable to take out the 840. I love the way it jumps. In fact, I don't use the 840 much anymore. But for a beginner, you'll get more mileage out of learning on the Standards. I think they are great kites to learn on.
As far as cruising and upwindability, the F goes up wind like a mofo. You better learn to jump to get back to where you started.
hehe.