Manufacturer:

Peter Lynn

Model:

Phantom (15m)

Sizes:

6m, 9m, 12m, 15m + 18m

Type Of Kite:

De-Powerable Water Re-launchable Foil

Introduction:

This kite was originally devised and concieved to be used on land in the buggy and on the board. So for those wanting to get wet, yes you can use it on the water but it will be harder to water relaunch it, (check out the PDF the kitesurfing option is grey - so it can be used but they not guarenteeing a perfect relaunch record). This kite has a high aspect ratio, making it long and thin. So, touted as a land kite how does it do - keep on reading for my views.

Packaging, Style + Construction:

As with the new lineup of arcs the bags have changed to expandable rucksack style, this is due to the new spar construction: they are now in a 3 piece foldable batton, making it easier to store the kite, the bag does have a expandable base and netting if you wish to keep your spars still in the kite when packing up.
Style, well what can I say its a love it or hate it design, three colours throughout, black and a colour (aqua blue in my case) on the back and a white front, simple and elegant. Plus the added bonus of looking pretty if your kite decides to fly inverted! (remember no bridles to get in the way!)
Some people may be 'disappointed' with the construction, seams are not hidden, though to be honest thats an aesthetic thing, and does not affect performance - plus who is going to notice when its 27m away from you! It does make it easier for repairs though, there are two bars around the new Zero 04, (i have an old bar) the new one has a slight change to the safety release on the chicken loop and leash, and no floats.

Setup and Flying:

So the golden rule of a new arc is called watch the video!, make it your matra watch it a couple of times before you first fly it, and then refresh if you get stuck! Angles are key remember. All in all a setup time can vary from an initial setup of 20 mins (to connect lines etc) check it all works, inflate etc. Though I now keep my lines connected to the kite, makes it easier to setup, so now all to worry about is the time it takes to inflate the kite through the opening zip, then a bottle of water on the closest edge to me keeps it in place while you walk back to the right angle to get the beast flying.
It may take one or two attempts to get full inflation and make it fly ok, but as soon as its full of air then you are off!.
As well as the usual trim adjuster strap system, there is an adjustable webbing in the rear of the kite, this can alter the performance of the kite depending on situations, I have not had too much experience but a tweak here and there can help.

Jumping:

Based on the legendary F-Arc this kite still retains its jump ability, a simple matter of getting moving, place kite upwards, feel the power and pull in, when learning you can achieve good jumps. More experience with timing can achieve higher and floatier jumps than some other kites can offer (i.e its easier to get them out of this kite), one factor is the float this kite brings doing a rotation can now be slowed down if you did a quick 360 it would more likely end up as a 720 due to the timing! Not to forget pulling in on the bar for the secondary lift to make this kite a fun thing to use!

Final Summary:

So, I must admit I do like this kite, it is my first venture into arcs and I must admit I can get frustrated with the setup, but every use makes it easier, once its flying its a dream, the auto zenith is lovely, no joke eating lunch, refilling a camelback etc is possible with hands and eyes off the kite, it will stay where you put it. The depower range is fantastic too, usuable wind range from around 8 to 20 means its a kite thats versatile, and stable no luffing back into the centre window and explosive pop to happen, the power is controllable.

It may not be a kite for everyone if you want to quickly unwind your lines and go, but for some people it may be what they have been looking for, it sure was in my case.

Reviewer:

Rasga @ KiteATB.co.uk

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