You guys have it nailed really well for the 2012 Rally compared to the 2014 Rally. The 2012 is just an almost perfect wave riding kite that does a lot more, but has a few drawbacks.
In super gusty conditions, the 2012 Rally will be a handful. I know this well when riding the 6m Rally in angry winds recently and it was a handful. Went on the 8m 2014 Rally and it was much more stable. But in waves and good winds, the 2012 Rally has so many great qualities.
2012 Rally wave riding advantages:
*FAST turning.
*Light bar pressure.
*Pivot turning.
*Great drift.
*Luffs better than most kites?
Why is luffing important? 2 reasons. At times you just need no pull on the kite and the ability to luff and drift are important. Also, if doing tack transitions, the 2012 Rally won't keep lifting when overhead. Makes it much easier to do tack transitions on surf boards.
*Sizes from 14m - 6m.
So many wave kites start at 12m and it's amazing how many 14m sessions in waves are out there.
2014 Rally advantages for free riding and freestyle:
*Stable.
*Tons of lift.
*Tons of power.
*Quick turning.
*Medium bar pressure.
*Huge jumps with great hang time.
Sizes from 14m - 6m.
Even though I've had a few good sessions with the 2014 Rally in waves, I still prefer the 2012 Rally in those conditions. However, I have not been on the 8m or 6m 2014 yet in waves, but I'm not sure they will drift as well.
The 2014 Rally is rock solid in the air and super fun to jump.
Hope this helps,
Bob
www.kiteridersllc.com