2012 RRD Obsession MK IV Review

Apr 14, 2012

Author: SBC Kiteboard / Shane Thompson

Size tested: 10.5 m
Sizes available: 5, 7, 9, 10.5, 12, 13.5, 15 m
Design style: 4-line, 5-strut SLE

The Obsession is a four-line, five-strut SLE that promises highly advanced yet user-friendly freestyle performance. A past test favourite in this category, the Obsession has been revamped for more low-end power, more speed and neutral kite pull during loops. Testers were impressed with the unhooked freestyle performance of this kite: smooth and aggressive pull with tight looping performance and awesome power delivery. Water relaunch was one of the best of the group, and overall test scores put it in the top three. Turning speed was appropriate, and the kite felt comfortable from all angles of attack. It had a very solid feel in the air, and could be put where needed at intuitive moment’s notice. Nice boosting performance, with easy-to-access air and decent hang time. The Obsession should not be overlooked for advanced riders who want solid power, precision handling and performance.

Rigid plastic trim line
Some testers felt the kite lacked some feedback because of the plastic rigidness of the centre line trim.

WHAT THE SBC TEST TEAM RIDERS ARE SAYING

“One of my top picks: fast and clean flying, low grunt with lots of ‘apparent-wind power,’ quick to position without being overly sensitive to bar input, good boost, solid bar setup and a great-looking graphic.”

“A solid kite that was great for freestyling: sat back in the window, good power, nice and stable for unhooked. Fast, pivot-style turning and very easy relaunch.”

Tech Features

-LE parallel seams
-Metallic PU strut end reinforcements
-Full Dacron leech and wing tips

http://www.deepbluesports.us/

http://www.robertoriccidesigns.com/

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