Why is this thread even have "SAFETY ISSUE" in it? Sounds like it was started by someone who was whining about a warranty claim and didn't get a free kite out of it.
The amount of times I have had to fix bladder related leaks, valve leaks and pin holes on all types of brands is incredible. If bladder issues were a safety issue, I should be dead by now!
Bladders are sensitive because they have to be light. Having a bladder not properly installed is obvious to see the first time you inflate a kite. That it happened 11 months down the road? I don't think so...
Anyhow, looks like alexeyga just burnt his bridges with Epic and most probably other kite brands that are present on this forum. Believe me, all brands monitor forums. You may think of creating a new username next time you make a claim for your other kites that you have. You will have better luck!
Also, bad publicity is good publicity. It gets people talking about your brand and helps get exposure as long as it is handled properly like Dimitri has done. So Dimitri, you should actually be thanking Mr. alexeyga for bringing you more brand awareness!
Happy kiting!
From a happy Epic kite owner!