2012 Star Kites Taina Review

Apr 11, 2012

Author: SBC Kiteboard

“Powerful and not twitchy, it hits the mark for the target group. It can jump big without being scary.”

Size tested: 9 m
Sizes available: 5.5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14 m
Safety system type: Mini fifth-line

The Taina is the new Star Kites models that has replaced the popular SBow. Moving from more bow flatness into the next generation delta hybrid technology, the Taina is crisp, with direct flying character in a lightweight, three-strut frame. With easily accessed performance for the still-developing rider, the Taina also had plenty of progressive de-power and tight pivotal turning. It boosted with instant ease and gratification without breaching out-of-control heights or hang time. The steering was more direct and tight-turning than the SBow, and the stability and downwind drift gave it some formidable wave character, especially for more onshore wind conditions. Water relaunch was quick and efficient, as the swept leading edge and bridles offered no-drag pivoting. For park and pop riding, the Taina performed on par with some of the top third generation delta hybrids. With some trimming, decent pop was generated from the nine-metre, and the kite would suffice for entry-level new-school riding. The Taina is the right step in the evolution of the Star Kites line, and will enhance the learning curve and carry good levels of performance into more advanced levels of freeriding and waves.

Control while de-powered
Some testers felt the kite lost some refinement in steering control when the kite bar was sheeted-out in powered-up conditions.

WHAT THE SBC TEST TEAM RIDERS ARE SAYING:
“Powerful and not twitchy, it hits the mark for the target group. It can jump big without being scary.”
“Proper all-arounder for progressive to intermediate riders, with surprising boost for the more advanced.”
“Smooth and controllable ride in gusty conditions; de-power straps are quickly accessible without a big arm reach.”

Tech Features
-One-pump
-Simple bridle setup
-Delta hybrid technology

http://starkites.com/

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• 2012 Freeride All-Terrain Kite Reviews

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