U-turn Oxigen 6.2M

Introduction

The U-turn kite range has 4 models: a beginner kite (the helium), an intermediate (the oxigen), a semi-race kite (butane) and a full race kite (nitro). This review is of the oxigen. The oxigen is available in two forms -- the basic model and the 'pro' model. The difference is that the pro model uses lighter, more water repellent material and a sleeved kevlar bridle. This brand doesn't seem to be as widely available as some, but the company has an on-line presence to help you find a retailer or to sell you an ex-demo kite.

Build quality

These kites appear well engineered, with a number of features not generally found such as power rings, dirt outs and rings at the outside trailing edge to aid turning speed. The internal cell partitions are stiffened to keep the cells open.

Flying characteristics

These kite fly quickly for their size, moving quickly through the window. Upon launch they are a little hesitant to fill, so they are best launched by pulling up, turning and sweeping across the window; once inflated they are manoevrable and pull well. In the buggy they perform well in smooth winds; I've managed 25mph in an 11mph wind on a flexi buggy (which I thought quite good, anyway!) with the 6.2. The kites turn quite well for their size, particularly the 6.2 pro. These kites pull well for their size, particularly when moving quickly.

However, these kites do present a challenge if you've not flown intermediate level kites before. These kites will keep flying beyond the window. Briefly. They will then fold up into a ball and drop to the ground. To use these kites effectively you need to know where the edge of the window is (the kite won't tell you) and stop the kite leaving the window, either by applying the brakes or by turning the kite. This is a particular problem in gusty conditions, where the edge of the window moves in and out with the gusts.

The official advice from U-turn is to increase the level of brake on the kite if you have problems by adding an extra knot in the brake leaders -- I should probably do this, but I've been trying to lean to keep the kite in the window!

I've only used these kites in the buggy and statically -- I don't know what they're like for a board. In a buggy you do need to watch the lift they generate in stronger winds and/or at speed. I'm told they aren't lifty kites, but compared to my other kite experience (bullets and beamers) they are. I have on one or two occasions been lifted out of the buggy when top turning too quickly -- you have been warned!

Conclusions

I am pleased with these kites (I bought the 4.0 to replace a beamer 5.0 after owning the 6.2 pro for a few months). I do get frustrated in gusty conditions when the kite spends more time in a ball than I'd like, but hopefully I'll learn...

By : iconoclast