Scotstic

As a fledgling but wingless CP paraglider, I needed something to vent my frustrations on, especially during windy blown out days. So decided that a big kite was in order, after playing with a Gin Yoz in a gusty sea-breeze in Oz last year. I picked the Radsail Pro 3 mainly for its value-for-money factor, and from the average to good reviews it was getting online. First slightly nervous flight was in Kent in 2-8mph winds. It felt steady and responsive in the stronder gusts but really luffed around when the wind dropped. Second flight in slightly stronger winds and it felt better. Attempted a few jumps and scuds, although it probably looked a bit pathetic to the seasoned onlookers. Still, lots of fun. Third flight was a bit scary, on top of Coombe Gibbet near Newbury. Good 15-20mph constant wind gave me a true feeling for what this kite had to offer - the power is awesome, but yes you do need to tighten the brakes in to stay in control / get most power. Got pulled all over the shop, through countless mounds of sheep sh*t. I hadn't had so many grass stains since I was a kid, or since that summer of '93.... Next (final!) flight was local, down at Richmond Park. There's always lots of rotor / turbulence here because of all the trees, but I started to perfect my jumping technique and had an hour of fun with no problems. BUT SUDDENLY... Good value for money for sure, but I was still pretty disappointed when the 'reinforced' bridle attachments failed - 3 of them on the same day! 2 from the centre of the leading edge and one from the outer brake lines. It was only blowing 8-10 mph and I had no incidents to warrant any kind of brakeage, so I was a bit pi*s^D off. However, I spoke to Ricc at Marionville Models, who simply said "send it back and we'll send out a replacement". So I sent it back Tuesday, and already have a shiny new replacement - on Thursday! Now that's service for you. Other retailers take note. This weekend is shaping up to be another "kite" weekend (although maybe a little cold). The prospect of snow makes things really interesting though. I already have a picture in my mind of an over-excited 30 year old, sat on a plastic red sledge hurtling across Richmond park without a care in the world. Apart from how to steer, stop, warm up, explain the broken arm, etc....

Can anyone explain the "sliding centre section" of the bridle on the PRO 3m. I don't have huge experience in kiting, so can anyone explain.