Bow kite
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Bow kites are LEI kites that incorporate a bridle on the leading edge. They can be identified by a flat, swept back profile and concave trailing edge allowing kite greater depower. Bow kite design was pioneered by Bruno Legagnoix[1], which has been licensed to many kite manufacturers.
Bow kites have a wider wind range than C-kites (traditional LEI kites), so two kite sizes (such 7m² and 12m²) could form an effective quiver for winds ranging from 10 to 30+ knots for a 75kg rider. This makes bow kites more suitable for beginners to kite sports, however, they also used by professionals.
Bow kites are used in a verity of kite related sports including Kitesurfing and snowkiting. Because of their depower range they allow users to combat problems caused by gust, making them safer to use. They are also used by kite surfers for wave riding, as their unique shape lends itself to this discipline.
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[edit] Early Kites
While early bow kites allowed kite to be fully depowerable they had a number of disadvantages[2] compared to classic C-Kites. These included:
- They can get inverted and not fly properly
- They are a bit twitchy and not as stable
- Heavier bar pressure makes them more tiring to fly
- More difficult to relaunch
- Lack of "sled boosting" effect when jumping
In 2006 second generation flat LEI kites were developed which combine 100% depower and easy, safe relaunch with higher performance, no performance penalties and reduced bar pressure.
[edit] Safety
Although bow kites make kite flying safer it is always advisable to seek professional training as accidents can still occur.
[edit] See Also
[edit] References
- ^ Bow Portrait
- ^ Kitesurfing School, Bow Kites
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