Rider: 95kg,Level advanced
Style: Freeriding, Surf,
Weather: 17-23kts knots
Build Quality: 9/10
Satisfaction:9/10
Disclosure: retailer so if I get excited here just ignore it.
My Comments:
9M 2010 Renegade from Epic kites.
this is the start of firstly my views and some views of others that have tried this kite.
I was using a 130 x 39 TT and missed the peak of the wind so wind was dropping below 20kts heading down to zilch.
Bar is as per the Epic Screamer already reviewed as is build spec and quality.
Kite is best described as a Hybrid with some tendencies towards Delta.
Relaunch certainly is Delta-ish.
Self Launch on Beach is also easy as per Deltas and Hybrids.
In the air the kite is nimble with ample feedback to the rider.
I had on that day firstly used the Screamer 10m LE, then onto the 12m Screamer, and then onto my personal 12m Zeeko Notus.
The first thing I noticed is that the Renegade is right in the smooth category. The Zeeko's are the epitome of smooth, the Screamers are about power and wanting to launch you. The Renegade is smooth, no catching you out, no accidental over sending in Jumps. Just smooth and controllable and predictable. Well suited to the kiter who is progressing with their jumps and wants nice float, and a forgiving range of timing to get smooth (gentle on the knees and ankles) landings.
To date a few that have tried the Renegade have been kiters working on Unhooked tricks and they have been the most praising of this kite. I was personally impressed by it's ability to allow me to have fun in wind I would normally not bother with a 9m kite.
For sure there is no indication of this kite falling forward when lines are slackened and when running down the face of a small wave in dead on shore wind at the kite, it only wanted to back up. it did show nice wave tendencies and whilst the waves were small and mushy it did show enough to want you to find the first opportunity to get to some decent surf.
This kite is due in Sydney this weekend. so hunt up a ride if you see it. probably round the Botany Bay area. From there I think it goes to Brisbane.
I hope those who get to try it post their impressions on this thread so a broader view of this kite can be seen.
