This week I upgraded from a 2011 Cabrinha Crossbow 13m and 2011 Convert 9m to the 2013 Cabrinha Xbow 13, SB 10 and SB 7.
I got out Thursday for the first time on the SB 10. It is a great improvement over the 9m i was riding before. Riding conditions were 16kts gusting 24kts. Main differences are power (obviously a size increase) and the SB has lighter bar pressure.However I really notcied that the new SB handles the gusts smoothly. Not jerky and didnt flutter through the gusts like the convert did.The boost is alot better over the convert too.
Main differences in the Xbows riding 13 to 17knts tonight: the 2013 is a great improvement in turning speed. I would say that it probably turns almost twice as fast as the 2011.
I noticed it right away. And on transitions where the 2011 would take its time, the 2013 is already over before i've reacted to the direction change. Felt closer to SB speed than older Crossbow speeds. I feel that this kite would do decent loops as well, however i didn't try it in a drysuit in 3 degree waters. Bar pressure is significantly lighter. I'm curious to know how it flies in lighter winds, say 10 knot range with a Sector.
Overall I'm extremely pleased with my upgrades. I couldn't recommend these kites more.
FYI I am not affiliated with Cabrinha in any way.
Will post an update after a few more sessions.
UPDATE
Saturday I was able to test out the 7m Switchblade. First thing that I love about this kite is the colour. The Wildcard mostly black colour i think looks amazing.
The sandbanks sensor was reading 35 knots when I arrived early Sat. I was surprised to be the only kiter there, but figured I since I drove all that way I should test it out.
Self launching wasnt an issue. As soon as i pulled the kite into the wind it launched along the window with ease.
Smooth handling and low pressure. It felt as if it had no power but as soon as I dropped it to start to ride it pulled. Soft bar pressure I guess.
In the severe gusts it barely fluttered and power increased very smoothly. The turning speed was fast. I hit the water a few times at first until I got used to the turning speed. Way faster than the 10m SB.
The small bar seemed perfect size for the control of the kite and I quickly found myself one handing and steering with ease.
Self landing was tricky. I used the IDS system and the kite didnt flag like my other ones do. As i started to walk up the front line it did take off and repower in a gust, crashing itself.
I was able to pull one line and have it flip onto its LE. If i were to kite with it again, I would tie off an anchor and pull the ids then anchor the loop to flip it myself.
I did try some air but found I dropped instantly, but I found out later that when i checked my lines they come from the factory untuned.
Overall Im extremely happy with the purchase for 25+ knot days!