Thanks for a nice description of self landing from the edge of the window by Foil. I liked the highlighting of the need for asymmetric braking by holding the brake handle off center. I would also add that I think it is worth using the spare hand on the top leader to enhance control of this asymmetry. Obviously you can transfer the hand to the bottom leader if required. For me letting go of the bar helps me to change mindset; the bar no longer has control so no point in holding it!!
As an intermediate foil kite flyer I think it is swings and roundabouts between handle and leaders:
Leaders give better control feedback in the way you are most used to contolling the kite. But is more finnicky to set up and transfer to tether.
Handle has a quick easy set up and transfer to tether. Weirder control feedback in a relatively alien hand configuration, which makes it easier to screw up and end up with a mess at the edge of the window. (Brake handle control screw ups like this may actually be less likely in stronger wind as there is more feedback and control is less delicate imho.)
Of course you have to factor in that not all rigs have handles. But I will continue to practice both styles for the foreseeable, but I definitely think using the leaders, rather than handle, gives me better control at present.
PS My favourite flag system is the simple front line flag, ie one front main bridle, but I am also ok with the old tophat release of the front lines to flag to Z. But my foil flagging experience is meagre to say the least. Anybody dislike the front line flag (I think Flysurfer call it the FLS system)????? Also any general tips on flagging strategies, that would be appreciated?
Last edited by Herman on Thu Oct 15, 2020 10:33 am, edited 5 times in total.
I am thinking that if you release a normal closed cell twin skin kite on to a 5th line with fully pressurized cells in stiff winds, it may rip the middle seam in half as it suddenly folds in two under pressure.
my hyperlinks which are dual mode kites, the instructions warn not to operate the 5th line option if the air intakes and 5th line center zips are not configured for open cell use as in use for land base sports.
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That's exactly what I thought and why I asked. That was my interpretation also after reading the Hyperlink manual.
Local Beach: New Brighton near Liverpool. Open sea with big low tide deep lagoon and regular at Rhosneigr and Newbrough on Anglesey
Favorite Beaches: New Brighton, Rhosneigr, Fleetwood, Newbrough, Blackrock sands lake Como (Italy) El Medano
Style: kite foiler since 2017 Ttip since 2000
Gear: My rule to gear choice is "IF IT DONT BOOST ITS NO USE" Groove Skates 110cm 2022 editions kraken mast systems 103k and 93k. Kraken fuse 703k Duotone SLS Evo's -- 11mtr/9mtr/7mtr/6mtr/ 4mtr RRD. Duotone 2022 click bars x2,my own custom made lines fitted, (modified lines now available for the flite99 shod duotone bars)
Bar lines made up to any length in a choice of strengths, power lines, trim lines, pigtails, leader lines, bridal lines, elasticated lines, I make and fit them all, free fit and tune service, quick turnaround,drop me a message, find me on messenger, Colin Moore.