Postby erwin703 » Wed Sep 28, 2022 5:30 pm
We recently tested the 8M marabou V2 in 8-12kts wind conditions with a hydrofoil board at Belmont Shores in California. At first glance, the kite resembles an ordinary foilkite; spreads-out and launches very similarly. However, the flight characteristics was surprisingly very nimble but really stable, with minimal to no trailing edge flutter. This allowed the ability to easily and controllably downloop the kite during the waterstarts, gybing and tacking. Everyone hydrofoiling were on at least a 9M up to 13M that day, and the 8M Gin Marabou V2 was able to not only keep up, but stayed dry floating in the air without falling, unlike most kites which all fell in the water that late session.
Another surprising characteristic is its ability to pivot-turn without yanking the rider off the board, especially useful in the surf. Fortunately, the pull is very gradual and predictable (softer than a full foilkite or LEI), which will keep you flying for a longer period of time. However, the kite does not have the same up-lift as a full closed-cell foilkite, and prefers to be flown inside the wind-window.
Many other positive features were the stainless steel pulleys with a small gap to reduce sand/debris from entering and seizing the lines. Both the canopy material and bridles also seemed more durable, which may last many more seasons in comparison to a standard foilkite.
Overall, the Gin Marabou V2 is an impressive, easy-to-use foilkite, that would benefit an intermediate to advance kiter in the lightest wind conditions.
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