Date:	Wed, 27 Sep 1995 19:49:06 -1000
From:	tanaka_be@swam1.enet.dec.com (Bert Tanaka)
Message-Id: <9509280547.AA08652@us3rmc.pa.dec.com>
Organization: Harvard University Office of Information Technology
Subject: Kite Review: the Competitor

Last weekend while I was visiting Santa Monica Beach, I got to test fly
the newest offering from Leading Edge Kites, a full sized delta called
the Competitor.  A lot of experimentation has gone into refining 
earlier prototypes to arrive at the final dimensions and trim of the
production model.  The Competitor has a cambered leading edge, and
a curved trailing edge to tension the medium pocketed sail.  It uses
a custom tee to provide extra offset between the spine and lower
spreader joint.  It also uses a tricky bridle that has a short single
cord that joins the two long bridles at the tee.  Attractive graphics,
and good workmanship.  

This kite has medium to medium-light pull.  I prefer a kite that doesn't
pull a lot because its easier for me to keep hand speed high - a necessity
to execute the snap stall family of tricks well.  Medium-plus speed, and good
acceleration.  Good at ground work - i.e., edge launches, ground turtles,
and ground rolls with ease.  Moderate oversteer - axels with medium speed,
and is also a good spinner.  Snap stalls with nice stability, and accepts
a push turn without losing line tension.  I tested this kite on 75' lines,
and was most impressed with its tracking.  For a kite with the whippy
nature most individual flyers prefer, the Competitor returns to track, off
of snap turns, very nicely with a minimum of hunting and the nice clean
line that makes it ideal to fly Precision and Ballet for the flier that
enjoys a kite capable of such high hybrid performance.

Available from Leading Edge Kites.  (909) 591-5156

Good Winds,
Bert


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