Hi,

First forum post & question ...here goes..

I have a 2011 North Rebel 10m which flies well and there is nothing wrong with it. I am considering an upgrade to a 2014 North Rebel 10m as I am very happy with the kite and used to it's flying characteristics. I wanted to ask those who have North Rebel riding experience how much of an improvement it is to upgrade from a 2011 to a 2014 and if it's really worth it in terms of performance and not just getting a new shiny toy. IF there is an improvement in performance then what specifically has improved. Also, if I upgrade from 2011 to 2014 do I keep the same size or has the wind range changed that I should consider a smaller/bigger kite.

I ride both on the river & ocean with TT and just purchased a directional board. I want to stick with a rebel for the all round riding characteristics.

The lines of the 2011 are taking a little longer to lay out each season and untangle but that is probably my only gripe. I also have a 2013 14m Rebel so wanted to stay with the same type of kite. I am using this 2013 bar more for the reason mentioned above. .

Location: Perth
Rider: Weight 85kg,Level Low intermediate
Style: Freeriding/ Surf
Weather: 12-25 knots


Cheers

Mate,

If the 2011 is not showing too much wear, why not add a smaller kite to your quiver?
A 10m and 14m in Perth, and you weight 85kg, I would think you'd want a 7 for your entry into wave riding.

Just a thought...

Have you tried out a Dice mate, can get some good prices on 2014 kite only at the moment and use your old bar.
Nice free ride/surf option in my opinion.

The 2012 Rebel was a step up from the 2011. 2013 was a bit more race oriented. Personally I thought the 2014 was the best Rebel they ever made.
Similar power to size as your 2011 but a better overall range.

... just to add my 2 cents.

I think yes its worth the upgrade if your going to ride surfboards or ride around in the surf.

I loved the 2011 Rebels, one of my all time favorites, best jumping kite for my heavy frame when on TT but had a tendancy to power spike when the kite shoots across the wind window when riding on waves with a surfboard. This power spike is perfect for jumping big but could pull you off a wave more often than not so was something you had to deal with easily.

When the 2014's came along I found it didn't have this big spike in power so it immediately felt easier to use in the surf but here's the ironic thing, it still jumped well. Seeing as I ride mostly surfboards now, it suited me better to have a lower power spike so I reckon if your going to ride in the surf, then 2014 will suit you better.

Anyway, just a thought,,, worth about 2 cents some would say!

cheers,

Robbie

I had actually considered adding a dice as a 3rd in my quiver but don't think I'm ready/competent enough for a pure surf kite just yet as I've only just bought my directional. I'd like to give this season a go on my Whip & rebels and see how I fare before I take it further ..and no I havent tried a Dice yet but read good reviews. If I can find a demo in Perth this summer I'll surely give it a go.

Cheers Robbie & Briskites for your rebel feedback, sounds like there are a few good reasons to consider an upgrade .. one final question to throw a spanner in the works. Every year they "improve" the rebel by tweaking this and that, is the 2015 better than the 2014 and would I notice it for someone of my experience level & interests (mainly TT & getting into surf). Reason I ask is that if it's a whole heap better than the 2014 then I might hang onto the 2011 for another year and p/u a second hand 2015 next year .. (I guess this argument plays out every year with newer kites always claiming they are better than their predecessors.)

Cheers
Dave

Bro stick to your 2011. That year was the best I recon!

If your daft enough to get rid of your 2011 let me know as 2 locals want another

Select to expand quote

cauncy said..
If your daft enough to get rid of your 2011 let me know as 2 locals want another

Hi Cauncy,

Seems like I'm daft enough. PM me for more details otherwise check the listings as I put it up yesterday:


2011 North Rebel 10m, comes with bar, lines & pump.[Plus repair kit, manual etc..]
No Repairs, leaks or holes.
Bar serviced and Brand New De-power line replaced by AKS in Jan 2014 ($50): Not used since. Everything is in Good Condition and kite flies very well. Had minimal use last couple years due having kids.