Last saturday I popped in at Suntrax to see when the new Naish kites were arriving. (I wasnt planning on buying a new kite till Sept/Oct/Nov)

So the Naish Helix’s were in. DAMNIT. So I had to buy one. Naish Helix 2008 12m2.

I managed to get out on langebaan lagoon on sunday in the north wester and there was just enough wind. I mean it was gusting up to a reasonable level, so the rest of the time was a bit trying.

I find the kite great, far more responsive than my Naish 2006 12m2 Boxer. Its not that easy to relaunch in the ultra light wind, no 5th line (thats what I am used to!) The line and bridle did drag in the water a little, but I think this will improve dramatically with decent wind. The kite turns over nicely on relaunch with the new leading edge shaping.

Otherwise I think the kite is awesome! It flies brilliantly, turns are quick and it is very responsive, massive depower, low bar pressure. It also handles gusts really well. My girlfriend who hasnt flown a kite until about 1 month ago even flew it for about 30mins and loved it. (What was I thinking!!!) But it was all good, no damage, no tears (although I must admit my heart was in my throat a few times!

So, I gotta see how it will perform in the South Easters! I am also gonna check the Torch 08’s out, whilst chatting to Brian @ Suntrax he did mention that most of the pros are using the Torch’s and not the new sigma series yet.

I will try post some new photos when I get out into some decent wind, its still a bit light in Cape Town at the moment.