Postby rickythecat » Wed Aug 22, 2018 12:53 am
Yes, I've also just spent the last hour or so reading through this entire thread. Looks like it's about to end, but thought I would add my own thoughts on CORE, since I've been using their kites for about 8 years now. Started with the original GT, upgrading each model to a current quiver the latest GTS and XR5s. That's a lot of kites. In 8 years, I have had exactly 3 issues with my equipment - Blown leading edge (probably my fault), worn brakeline (in my opinion, bad design, changed on new bars), and (topically) a worn/broken bridle line. My bridle line looked EXACTLY like the earlier shown picture. Though my breakage was do to user error - FYI, kite was attached to a snow anchor and went into a 'death roll', slamming against the surface probably a hundred times. So, very few issues to claim as a long time CORE user. And I use my kites a lot, including I would guess 70-80 days on the snow.
The evening of my bridle breakage I called the CORE distributor in Florida (about 6:00 my time in CO). Brett answered and took care of the issue. And yes, same as the original writer of this thread, I was somewhat taken aback by the need to have a bridle shipped from Germany and the price for shipping. I too, feel CORE should have these parts on hand in the states, but as someone pointed out later in this thread, that is a lot of different parts. Yes, there probably is room for improvement here, as another comment mentioned of maybe having parts on hand to cover current models.
ON THE OTHER HAND, I was back to using the same kite WITH the new bridle in less than a week! Cost now forgotten!
So, yes parts will wear out. There is a cost. If you are buying (what some think is) the most expensive brand, expect parts/maintenance to cost a little more). No different than autos.
To address the original thread, I have never had a bad experience with the personal at CORE. Also, of all the Core kites I've owned, including my XR4s and XR5s, never an issue with the bridles wearing.
Unfortunately, they do only have the few distributors in the U.S. and therefore, (understandably) shipping costs are just part of their business.
I will also mention, in full disclosure, that for years I was a 'brand ambassador' for Core. No longer the case as ironically, they no longer want (or need?) the support of riders unless they live near a distributor. Kind of a strange idea in the world of online marketing and purchasing.
Just wanted to add what I feel is an unbiased interaction from a long time user of Core Kites.