Greetings all,
This is a quick review along with some clips of a session I had on Monday with the new Evo and click bar. Not sure what the wind was at this point (probably 15 to 18 range). I was riding the 14m on the middle setting and using the click bar. Overall I like this year's Evo much better than previous models. Surprisingly, the feel of it is very similar to the Rebel but its a bit more agile and as expected, the Rebel has some more hang time. Both have a medium-soft bar pressure which is perfect. I don't unhook or do much wave riding but this would definitely be better suited for those who prefer an all around kite. Later in the day, the wind picked up over 20 but I was still very comfortable and the range on it is solid (i'm 155 lbs). I do agree that this year's model is inherently different than previous years especially given the change in struts. But to me, it still felt extremely sturdy and locked in the sky.
Sidebar - there's nothing better than video to let you know how much you need to work on your technique.
Tough to say, the wind was so up and down that day and I was out for a while and can't remember what exactly it was blowing at that point. I want to say it was probably around 18, maybe a little less though.
Saw some bloke doing stuff on a board but barely saw the kite - what was it again?
Yep - that's what we call a "lazy mans footage" - just setup the gopro, do some tricks, and hope that you end up in the frame lol. I soooo wish there was a better robot cam out there. I'm in desperate need but don't have faith in the technology yet.
I've been considering replacing my 14 Naish Pivot with one of these. Any comparison with Pivot or any other 14m kites?
Cheers.
JB
My experience on the pivot is a bit limited but I'd say it turns a bit snappier than the Evo whereas the Evo is probably more stable in the sky. The overall feeling between Naish and North kites is much different so I'd say it really comes down to personal preference based on this. Demo if you can. This will tell you everything you need to know.
I live in the sticks so nowhere to demo really. I'm happy with my Pivot 14, it's really the main kite size I use. Overall it's been great. If I had to improve upon it I'd be looking for something faster, better jumping, and less bar pressure.