Official Statement from Core:
We have received reports about wear on the Sensor 3 SSF-powerline and the Dyneema sleeve at the 'Y.' We take these reports seriously and are investigating these isolated cases. Given a large number of Sensor 3 Bars in regular and demanding use worldwide, there's been minimal feedback to date about wear on the powerline sleeve. However, we are talking to our line suppliers and will get to the bottom of this.
An excessively worn SSF powerline sleeve must be replaced immediately. We'll send affected customers a fully compatible and proven powerline set from the Sensor 2S free of charge. Replacement is easy with our step-by-step video instructions.
If you have a Sensor 3 and do not know if this applies to you, inspect your bar every time you lay out your lines. And if you find a worn line, sleeve, or component, then replace it immediately. Please contact your CORE dealer or CORE directly at international@corekites.com, and we will help you right away.
Also, please do not wash your lines and kites too often, as this will wash the coating off the lines and fabrics over time, which may cause accelerated wear and tear. Of course, you should always keep your equipment sand-free.
To all concerned, we apologize for the wear on your Sensor 3 bar. We will do our best to make it right.
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I recently purchased new Core Nexus 2 Kites along with 3 other local kiters, with Sensor 3 control bars (2 Pro bars and 2 Base models). These have been purchased new in the past 4 months. We are average freestyle / surf riders, and are not overly hard on equipment.
The power lines have failed on all 4 bars. The failure starts within about 6 to 10 sessions.
The issue is at the Y. The lower power line initially frays its outer case where it slides through the metal rings. This is most likely exacerbated by sand from the beach.
Once the outer casing starts to fray, within 1 or 2 sessions it tears in half, leaving the bare centre line to slide across the rings.
The DANGER here is that once the outer case is torn like this, it bunches up and the steel rings will not slide over the outer case when engaging the safety. The kite will then NOT de-power, and not flag out. The issue can happen in the middle of a session without warning.
My own power line then failed completely, snapping with about 20 sessions of use, resulting in a self rescue.
The snapped line was replaced by the dealer however the outer casing has again frayed and torn in half with only 6 sessions on it.
I have contacted Core with details of the issue, however they have declined to admit there is an issue and have not responded to my second enquiry.
If you are using the new Sensor 3 Bar, check it before each session and Test your de-power regularly if the power line looks frayed.
Needless to say I am extremely disappointed. This is not cheap equipment and proper testing should have been carried out before release, especially issues that render the safety system useless.
I have attached photos.
