Gong Freewave

[Erik de Berik]

After 3 weeks of intensive kiting in Brazil with the Gong Freewave 9.0 I can say that I am impressed. The kite is very tight and powerful. I mainly kite with the directional board. The kite listens and turns quickly on its axis. Her (:-)) drift in the waves is more than sufficient, although it is not a specific wavekite, I enjoyed it very much.
I just ordered a 10.2 because it will fit better with my weight (98 kg)
This is a very reliable kite and I love the shiny colors they have, you will get a lot of attention with these ones, satisfaction guaranteed!!!

Build quality: 8
Low end: 6
Top end: 8
Steering speed: 8
Turning circle: 8
Bar pressure: 6 (Perfect, not too light so you feel exactly where the kite is)
Water relaunch: 8
Drift: 7
Boost: 5 (It`s not a sheet and go kite, but if she goes then she goes fast with ease)
Ease-of-use: 7.5 (Beginners can use it but it's fast and slightly higher bar pressure)
Price: 10 (lots of value and pleasure for money!)

[Jugglajon]

I really enjoyed foiling in Sri Lanka all summer on my 6.8. I found the bar pressure a little on the heavy side but everything else I loved about it.
Nice solid loop
Direct
Build quality on a par with big brands.
Price and customer service were phenomenal.

[Smeagle]

Thanks for the review...

Did anybody try the 2021/2021 version, still on offer now?

Thanks,
- Oliver

[Baptiste_FR]

Gong still offer 3 kites (Unik, Freewave, Strutless).
But they clearly shifted their activity towards Wing and Foil.
I would not buy a Gong kite, but would definitely consider their surfkite board or foils.

[1234567Simon]

In france the Feeling is Like every second Kite is Gong

I tried the No strut model: nothing to complain, light, fast easy... But I do Not Like that Center batten Thing ... But this is very personal, you only need Like 15 seconds to put it in and pull it out....

Most people do Not use IT for foiling ....

[alpaia]

I read review of the first freewave version it was not as smooth, it seems like it has improved.
Sure great value for money.
I see more gong kites in France now , people no longer care about not using the A brand.
Resell value is still not as good as duonorth and cabrinaish, but they cost roughly half new.
I like the unik a lot, it is very versatile ( foil / surf )

[tomato]

I read review of the first freewave version it was not as smooth, it seems like it has improved.
Sure great value for money.
I see more gong kites in France now , people no longer care about not using the A brand.
Resell value is still not as good as duonorth and cabrinaish, but they cost roughly half new.
I like the unik a lot, it is very versatile ( foil / surf )

I think smoothness depends on expectations. GONG kites have very short throw and most wave kites, if someone fly other kites- Freewave can be perceived as rough.

Drift is super good, friend having Drifter said it is better drift with Freewave than Drifter.

[alpaia]

Yes not criticizing, depends on what you like and conditions.

Gong unik 12.9m is great for me in light wind and as you said short bar throw for depower so I have a simpnified brm like bar with no trim. I guess freewave is similar short bar throw for depower so need good steering to avoid on/off rough feeling.

For high / gusty winds i prefer kite with progressive and smooth power delivery.

[Smeagle]

Guess I thought about it too long. Now they are all gone... Was really a great deal.

[vela99]

Interesting to see that at least their kites seem to be good value for the money.

I cannot say the same for their kite surfboards. While I love the shape of my Gong Lethal I cannot say the same about its build strength. After only about 20 sessions (without any jumps at all!) I had 1cm cracks on both sides where I place my heels.

Gong actually send me a replacement board after I broke my first Lethal but as said, my happiness only lasted another 20 sessions. I have send the board to a professional shaper to reinforce the deck. Once I add the cost of this upgrade to the original price the value for the money is just average if the board actually lasts.

There are two more kiters at my spot who suffered the same problem with the Alu. So it is a general problem with the build specífications which are just not enough. It takes very little additional effort to make these boards last and therefore it is incomprehensible for me from the economical and ecological point of view.