Rode the 09 Havoc 12m back to back with the 08 Hi Fi 12m and 9m thanks to jason from West Oz Kiteboarding. Gusty 10 to 20 knots north winds at Singleton with knee to waist high waves 110kg riding a 6 1 Skate surfboard.

The Good - Construction, bar and lines, neat one pump set up and very stable. Really well finished kite with good bumpers, I like the velcro for holding the bar when rolled up saving time good idea.

The bad - Turning was slow and feedback delayed. I am used to bridled kites I use OR Rise kites, not a fan of front and back bridles linked like the Havoc and the SS Rev (07 Rises were but mod allowed direct rear connection which transformed the kite) the pulley connection takes out some feedback IMHO. Very on off power when going down the line on waves.

The Hi Fi was a revelation though, really direct fast responsive kite that went downwind beautifully constant power with good control. Only negative was the bar pressure, I am a pussy I like no pressure (06 Sonic is good pressure) so this should be taken with a grain of salt. Not a fan of 5th line had a bowtie out there today so need more time to be convinced but the 09 Hi Fi could be the kite for me. Everyone who used the Hi Fi liked it.

Cheers Andrew