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Kick Vented (Cavaliers du Ciel)

DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION
The Kick is designed by Robo Spitters, well-known Dutchman on the competition circuit. The kite has a low aspect ratio shape, standing very tall, with cambered leading edges and deep, wide set standoffs. The frame in standard 6mm carbon throughout is fairly flexible. The sail has a simple graphic with a large gauze panel in each leading edge and a second and third vent inboard which have Velcro on covers to enable adjustments. The kite also has a small vent on the centre line just above the tee. Fittings were all from FSD and of good quality. The general standard of finish was above average.

FLIGHT TEST
The Kick flew at a medium pace, accelerating and generating only a small amount of pull during gusts. The kite tracked reliably although the flexibility of the frame gave rise to the occasional wobble. Again the large amount of flex in the frame showed itself when tight or snappy turns were executed. The kite would spin well within the wing tip and exhibited quite a bit of oversteer, to the point of side sliding out of a spin. The pull remained reasonably light throughout.

FUN VALUE
As the Kick is designed by Robo Spitters we were expecting to have some fun with the kite. It was quite an agile kite that would turn very quickly and trick well. No trick line was provided on the kite in the test which limited its potential for recovery. A somewhat puzzling omission on such a tricky" kite.

CONCLUSION
The Kick is a freestyle kite that has a personality similar to that of its designer. It is a little quirky and the kite is intentionally designed to have a very flexible frame. Having said that, the Vented Kick has a large area of vent available, which would give it a potentially large wind range. A trick line would need to be added the Kick to realize its full potential.