Kawika
I think it is pretty unreasonable to say that the Eclipse CL is "is by far the safest system out there and the easiest to put back together" as there is really isn't any neutral data to support such a claim.
I also agree that the finger loop is not the best option for a qiuck release, as stated by people who's had theirs rip while trying to release.
Apart from that it might be a very good CL, but categorically the best...I don;t think so. Oh and by the way, I think most kites in this industry is developed BY kiters...and FOR kiters...anything else would be silly.
I think there are probably many very good solutions, and I am hesitant to agree that we should standardize the release. I still think we are so early in the development process of safe kite equipment that standardizing such equipment would not only hinder development and innovation but also to some degree function as pillow in which the companies can sleep. I think we should instead use forums like this to gather information look for solutions, and instead show companies that we actually do pay attention to their product, and that launching a product that isn't tested properly affect their sales. I am sure they know that already, but we have seen many examples of this on this very forum, where users has posted their experiences, and it has affected and demanded a response from the companies. I think this is actually the best way to secure good innovation. It is also ALWAYS the rider's responsibility to know the gear he / she goes out on. If you don't know how to release the CL you probably shouldn't have taken the kite out in the first place.
Overall I've been happy with both the Naish and SS bars I've had..never had any problems....I had an early best bar that I didn't like so much, but the newer one looks better. I am not sure if I like the pull the pulg king of release that SS has on their newer bars...to me it is more intuitive to release by pushing away the CL (North / Naish)...easy to grip, and I wouldn't do it by accident like I've seen people do when they have the depower on the opposite side of the release. Now this is my personal preference, but I realize people are different. In anycase, while taking out a bar that I am not familiar with, it is still my responsibility to familiraize myself with the gear....it will not do it for me....well I guess unless you have Nak's spreaderbar that actually releases the spreaderbar hook when there is too much power....
We should also be vigilant in testing our gear BEFORE we come in the situation where we need to work flawlessly. I actually do test my release every now and then. I look at the parts to see if anything look worn out, and I make sure that things atleast seems to be working. So far this approach has kept me out of serious accedents.
My 5cents...I guess it is more like 35 cents...but anyways...
A.