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The Airbow is best suited to an approximate wind range of 5-28kph
(3-18mph). It should be flown on lines around 20-40m (65-130ft) in length,
with a rated strength of 35-70kg (80-150lb). Longer lines are generally
preferable for precision flying and are good when learning to master the
kite. Shorter lines are preferred by more experienced pilots for trick
flying.
In principle, any handles designed for quad line sport kites can
be used to fly the Airbow. However, we recommend the official
Switch Grips which have been designed specifically for this kite.
Handles designed for quad line power kites are generally not suitable
due to their excess weight and bulky nature.
There are two different ways to attach your flying lines to the handles.
If you've got an existing set of lines with loops on the end, or if
you want to make it easy to remove the lines from the handles, then
you can tie an overhand knot in the end of each loop on the handles.
Then you can attach your flying lines to the loops using a larks head
knot, as shown in the pictures below.
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| Overhand Knot |
Larks Head |
The other option is to have a set of lines permanently attached to the
handles. Rather than tying a loop in the end of the flying lines,
instead tie a stopper knot and then attach the flying lines to the
loops on the handles using an overhand knot, as shown in the pictures
below.
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| Stopper Knot |
Attaching Line |
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| Line Attached |
Keeping the lines attached to the handles saves time on the flying
field. Simple wrap the lines around the handles when you're done,
as shown in the picture below. You can also leave the lines
attached to the kite and put the handles, lines and kite all into the
same bag. Then when you next want to fly, there's no messing around
attaching lines - simply set up the kite, unwind the lines and fly!
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| Lines Wrapped Around Handles |
As with any kite you should avoid flying near trees, power line, roads,
railways, airports or wherever people could be hurt or property damaged.
Never fly in or around thunderstorms. Always chew your food properly
before swallowing and never run with scissors.
Flying on beaches and in other rough environments will increase the wear
and tear on the kite. Ensure any sand or salt water is washed off with fresh
water and the kite is left to dry thoroughly before stowing. De-tensioning
the spines is highly recommended to avoid excessive stretch in the sail.
Avoid holding the kite near the centre connector, especially in high wind.
Instead, hold it by a wingtip and let the body of the kite trail downwind.
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