Kitewing

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A Kitewing is a wing shaped sail designed to provide power and lift. It is used to provide the power to give pilots traction on a number of different vehicles and surfaces:

skis (on snow or ice),
snowboard (on snow or ice)
ice skates (on ice)
roller skates (on asphalt)
mountain board (on asphalt, packed sand or grass)
dirtsurfer (on tightly packed sand, grass, asphalt and other terrain)

The difference between a Kitewing and a sports kites / traction kite is that Kitewing does not have separate control system (see kite control systems). Instead, a Kitewing is held directly in the hands of the user, which provides greater control, stability and depower when compared to a traditional power kite. In addition a Kitewing does not have lines to tangle, and can be manoeuvred easily to perform a wide variety of tricks, turns and fast speeds.

This superior control also makes a Kitewing safer to use. The instant depower reduces the risk of pilots being overrun in strong gusts, and the close proximity of the Kitewing to the pilot makes it safer for other users of the space as there is no risk of injury from kite lines.

Learning to use a Kitewing is easy and safe. The wind range for Kitewing use is huge, different techniques can be taught in different conditions. For basic learning only a small space is required to allow students to familiarise them selves with the wings assembly and handling characteristics.

Kitewing is a very spectacular and rapidly growing action sport. In the correct wind conditions a Kitewing can reach speeds of over 90 km/hour. Some very experienced pilots can perform controlled jumps of up to 500 meters or perform jump turns and other advanced manoeuvres.

[edit] Models

Currently there are there are three models of Kitewings ranging from 3,5 to 5,5 m². The users should choose a Kitewing depending on their body weight, the intended surface of use and the type of vehicle they intend to use. Each of the Kitewings in the range can be used on any surface with any vehicle, however some sizes are suited better to some purposes. In addition, the smaller Kitewings in the range are better suited to learning.

A small Kitewing can provide improved manoeuvrability and increased speed in hard wind conditions. A larger version is better suited for use on sand or grass or other surfaces with more friction. Kitewing dealers and dedicated internet sites can help the new participant to choose the right Kitewing to avoid getting one that is not suitable for rider body weight, the surface used and for the intended purpose.

[edit] Safety

It is important to remember that a Kitewing should always be used with caution, in clear safe areas, and with the proper safety equipment. Typical safety equipment are helmets and safety leash especially designed for Kitewing pilots. On land ice or snow, serious Kitewing pilots use a full set of pads and back harness as well.