How much kite does a 270lb. person need in 8-15mph winds.

[double pup]

Hi, I'm interested in the sport,but dont know which kite would fly such a large guy. Any suggestions on size and models for an experienced windsurfer and stunt kiter would be a great help. I live in an area with large,empty sand beaches where a person can get help from local kiters,but there are no other people in sight. THANKS FOR ALL THE INFO GUYS! I think I have enough to get that first kite.----P.S. 8-15MPH WINDS are just average where I live(Pensacola,FL.USA),but as you can see,I already am planning for those LOW WIND:( days! I hate being stuck on the beach!

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: double pup on 2002-11-11 18:48 ]</font>

[Toby]

that is a tough call.
First since you are a beginner it is better to start with a smaller size. 12 sqm flat area is the common kite size for beginners.
Since you are experienced in stunt kiting that should be a help.
I suggest you a kite of 14 sqm and later you can get a 18 or 20m kite for lighter winds and for stronger winds 10 sqm.
But from 8 is not possible IMO. You may start at 11 mph with a 20 and around 14 with a 14sqm. The board should be about 160-180 long.

Hope that helps, since it is all imagination and not based on experience.

Cheers
Toby

[fokiten]

As a 270 pound windsurfer you'll be happy with kiting, interms of pure horsepower a medium size kite 12mt. has more power potential than the biggest wind surf sail made! Toby's advice is always about right and I think you will be one big happy S.O.B.
wecome aboard.

[BLOWN AWAY]

You'll need a big kite...

I use a 20m AERO and while I'm not 270 pounds I DO know that the kite pulls Hard...

Also consider something big like a 23.5m ARX.....

BLOWN AWAY

[SENDIT!]

Well, good to see someone larger than I am going to give it a shot. I recommend an AERO 20 once you're comfortable with the kites. Try purchasing a smaller used one (12) that you can start with, but can use for higher wind once you know what you're doing. You're probably going to have to start on a rather large directional initially, too. I weigh 210 and started on a 7'8" directional (HUGE for kiting). I still use it occasionally for light wind, but I need about 10 to go on that and a 16 X2. Of course, you could also check out Underground's Magic Carpet like I'm doing. It's a twintip that isn't so damn big but can still get you planing early. In theory anyway! How's about an update Callum? Do you have yours yet? I'm tired of waiting for a report!

Good luck,

SENDIT!

[Mr Jo Macdonald]

Yep, to start use a size that will later be your high wind kite, 10-14m but using it in low wind to get the hang of flying and controlling the kite. Then if you want to kitesurf in as low a wind as possible get the biggest low Ar kite, a big foil is good too and also a big wide floaty board will help add another 2 or so knots to the bottom end.
With a bigger (210 x50 cm) directional or killer lightwind TT (180 x 45) and a big kite with a good low end, I reackon you should be able to get going in about 10 knots.
You can also use a smaller board with the same kite if the wind is a bit stronger before using the smaller kite.
Jo

[Guest]

If I was your weight and starting out I'd get an Aero16 and a big board like a 7' directional or one of the new really wide twin tips that have come out for learning.

I would hold off getting the Aero 20 until my second kite.

[Toby]

I think the 16 is too close to the 16, so the 14 would be better and also better o start with. 16 is hard for learning specially in a gusty area.
just my opinion.

Toby

[Mr Jo Macdonald]

On 2002-11-10 12:34, Toby wrote:
I think the 16 is too close to the 16, so the 14 would be better and also better o start with. 16 is hard for learning specially in a gusty area.
just my opinion.

Toby

Have to agree with you there Toby, the 16 would be pretty close to the 16, been a late night/early morning mate?

No seriously, I was thinking the same thing, the 20 and 16 will be pretty close, I would say start with a smaller kite then get the biggest you can if you really want to go out in as ittle wind as pos.
Jo

[Dwight]

On 2002-11-10 01:04, double pup wrote:
Hi, I'm interested in the sport,but dont know which kite would fly such a large guy. Any suggestions on size and models for an experienced windsurfer and stunt kiter would be a great help. I live in an area with large,empty sand beaches where a person can get help from local kiters,but there are no other people in sight.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: double pup on 2002-11-10 01:38 ]</font>

What a bunch of light weight wennies. Get a 16m starter kite. It will be your high wind kite when you get good. You will never use a 12m kite at your weight. You will probably end up using a 20m kite most of the time.

Buy a 16m meter with a reputation for slowing turning. It will turn fast at your weight. Stay away from kites these light weight wennies like. Do not buy the X2, air Blast, Supertype or Airush. Look at the 2002 Slingshot, Aero, North kites.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Dwight on 2002-11-10 12:52 ]</font>