Here´s my story (so far ):
Tried the Sonic 11m² last year in Tarifa. Ten days sub 15 knots, 100% on
shore and incoming tide. It´s surely possible to use the 11m² in this kind
of wind (i saw it being done) but not for me.
Quite an unexperienced kiteboarder - it was just not possible for me. I only got the hang the last day and had some fun.
I think I trimmed it totally wrong. As the 11m² Sonic in these lightest
winds is quite prone to backstalling once you oversheet, it`s not
the easiest thing, flying the 11m² for the first time in these sub 15 knotish
winds...
Actually did sell the 11m² Sonic and waited for new (used) gear to arrive (old c-shape kites).
Last week I got a really fabulous pricing for a 8m² Sonic which I bought.
And what can I say -> THIS KITE R.O.C.K.S.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BIG TIME!
Snowkiting with the 8m² Sonic rocked and once you figure
it out (especially the sheeting out during turns!) it feels like cheating...
Sooooo easy and no more spanking!!! Just sheet out some way and you`re safe even in plus 40 knots squalls (and that`s conservative!).
(Self-, Re-) Launching with just the 4 Lines -> No Problem!
Selflanding no problem at all!
So Safe!
Eventually I just ordered a 14m² Sonic also and hope it`s anywhere near
the 8m² - because then it`s a freakin`, freakin`, freakin` awesome
kite!!!!
Windrange:
For the 8m² Sonic I would say on snow 14 to 40+ knots.
Sounds incredible but it`s absolutely NO bullsh.t!!!
On the water I am not sure yet. Will let you know.
I am going all the way Sonics again. I think 8 and 14m² Sonics will
cover 10 to 40 knots (both at least!).
Please feel free to ask anything you want!
I think everyone who never flies a Sonic, does not realize what
he/she misses at all!!!!
Cheers.Fritz
PS:
Attached are some pictures from yesterday - gusty to say the least.... absolutely NO problem with this freaking kite!
PPS:
My weight is about 75 kg.