apparently that's the term for kites that turn on the wing tip and the cut straight back through the window, as opposed to most kites that do a large radius turn up and over and back down again.
Well, I learnt to kite on old C kites in the bad old days. They were old technology, dangerous as hell, and sooo much fun.
This year I'm getting new stuff, I got 3 years out of my Waroos but this time I want that exciting adrenaline rush again - kites that turn and turn fast (and I'm not talking about advertising hype)
So do pivot turning (get this turn wrong and I'll smash you) kind of kites still exist???
What are they actually called.. delta, hybrid, bow, 'C', ...???
and my number 1 question.. what's the best one to get for this season?

This might be another way of looking at it-

Pivotal turns-
Kites that turn more around the central axis of the kite.

Advantages =
-Tighter loops
- Even slower turning kites will turn OK once they get to the pivotal phase
- Wave riders can punch the kite through a turn without being pulled out front or over the back

Driving or Arcing turns-
Kites that turn more around the inside wingtip whilst the rest of the kite continues to drive forward.

Advantages =
- More powerful in the loop
- Generate more power in turns and when signing the kite
- Steering generally feels more direct and natural
- Doesn't wash power from the kite during the loop like a pivotal kite as the whole kite continues fast forward flight

As for the second part of your question this may be more difficult as it's not just the turning you are considering.

If you are looking for a kite to put the excitement back in I would suggest looking for the following-
- Short throw bars tend to indicate a more aggressive kite
- Kites with more wing or more C shape will generally but not always power more through turns
- If looking for a bridled kite look for something with a direct back line connection
- Ask your store which kites drive in the turn.
- Just get a "C" kite

Of course all of these things are a general guide and there will always be exceptions so maybe get out there and try.

Jas

Jas hit the nail on the head on the comparison between the two styles

As for which one is best that depends on your style, so fly them all and see!

thanks guys, I'm researching c kites tonight
wish I'd never sold my old Yargas.

Nah, don't be sad the new C kites have a bigger wind range and are generally more versatile.

Ozone C4 - need i say more

Select to expand quote

bingles said...

Ozone C4 - need i say more

Yeah probably a good idea as it seems you have no concept