Date:	Mon, 8 Aug 1994 17:34:41 -1000
From:	tanaka_be@swam1.enet.dec.com (Bert Tanaka)
Message-Id: <9408090333.AA15043@mts-gw.pa.dec.com>
Organization: Division of Applied Sciences, Harvard University
Subject: Follow-up on Vented IQ



Some time back I posted a review on the vented version of the IQ
sport kite made by Legend Sport Kites.  At the time I wasn't sure of
how much high wind the vented IQ could handle but after a visit to the
Berkeley area for the Sport Kite Championships there, I have a much
better idea.  I put the vented IQ up in winds that were around 20-25 mph
and was able to fly it on my standard length (105'), 150# lines. I
tested it unscreened.  This is an estimate of the wind speed higher up.  At
ground level, wind speed was metered at up to 20 mph.  At any rate,              
Sunday the wind was up high enough that you could have almost called it
"Mesh Day".  I even saw vented kites with double screens.

Pull was strong, but not overpowering.  The kite was flying and performing
similarly to a standard IQ in 15 mph.  I used the same bridling adjustment
that I normally use, which is slightly to the low side.  Kite speed is
moderate, and there is just a touch of oversteer at this wind speed.  You
still have to use some compensating techniques due to such strong winds
at the edges and some stunts are definitely more difficult.  Off edge stalls,
and groundwork require really good execution.  Slides are short, but 
do-able.  Lower bridling might have helped, but I had a plane to catch and
didn't have time to experiment much.  Except for minor modifications, I 
think that I could fly my regular routine, and stay on the music.  If the   
wind speed were higher, it is possible that longer, and heavier line might
be enough to compensate for the additional wind speed.  After 30 mph, I would
just call wind rule.  I don't think that I would really ever have
to screen this kite (but you had better believe that I always pack my Wind
Tamers - just in case!).  Basically, this kite is a joy to fly in
heavy wind.  For the fun flyer, its slow speed makes it very easy to control.
For the competition flyer, its definitely a heavy wind killer and is 
particularly strong in the precison events.  

Good Winds,
Bert

Disclaimer - Legend Sport Kites has recently agreed to furnish me with 
equipment.  Since I had already bought my Legend kites and had my routines
built around them, I hope that my enthusiasm for their products won't
be interpreted as only commercial bias, but I do have a small sponsorship.
Believe me, $7.6 million over 6 years...  it ain't.  I picked them, long 
before they picked me.  Anyways - Rec.Kites' Boy makes good, kindof sortof.







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