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Phantom Elite V (Benson Kites)

DESIGN / CONSTRUCTION
The Phantom Elite V is the vented version of the Elite, developed by Tim Benson for competition flyers and now available to order. The kite is relatively low aspect ratio with a fairly straight leading edge and a curved trailing edge with leech line and trick line. The kite has the classic radial cut sail with three extra stripes in gauze. The frame is SkyShark throughout and the fittings are Tradewinds. The quality of construction and finishing was generally excellent.

FLIGHT TEST
The Phantom Elite V was relatively fast in straight-line flight for a full-size kite. Flying precision was easy and it responded sharply to crisp control inputs. It would snap turn and stall very nicely and the pilot had a feeling of immediate confidence in its ability to recover from any situation. The Elite would spin within its wing tip and felt nimble and agile whilst remaining under complete control. The pull was very light even when there was the occasional strong gust of wind, although the wind window was slightly restricted.

FUN VALUE
Despite its size, the Phantom Elite's light touch and agility made it user-friendly and the potential for tricks is enormous. The V will flat spin like a demon and axel-cascade in mid-window. The low pull and fast response made the kite amusing and it never felt out of control, although a fitted air brake is available as an option for higher winds.

CONCLUSION
Although it is only available (like the Matrix) in small numbers, the Phantom Elite V is a fine balance of speed, agility, control and trickability. The overall construction, frame and fittings were all of top quality. The kite has a good usable wind range and could cope with both precision and a wide variety of tricks.