| After a
flight test with the new North Rhino 07 - Charlie Railton
tells us his thoughts on their latest SLE!
Conditions >
15 - 25knots
Size
Tested > North
Rhino 9m 2007 >
Handling >
At long last the new rhino has arrived! In my opinion North
have really kept the characteristics of the 05/06 Rhino
but added lots of depower. This kite is really going to
appeal to those who want the characteristics of a classic
style kite along with huge depower. The steering is direct
and very positive, the kite flies super fast and its upwind
performance is staggering. Conditions were gusty and the
Rhino ate them up and was very stable.
Jumping >
North have earmarked this kite a jumping machine, and they
weren’t having us on. The life is staggering but the
float even more impressive meaning that landings are easily
controllable. I didn’t get close to the top of the
wind range of this kite and the jumps were still huge.
Build Quality >
North usual good build quality, this kite has the addition
of the 2 pump system which works brilliantly; a tube runs
along the back of the leading edge connecting all the struts
meaning you only have to pump up one strut. The advantage
of this system over a 1-pump system is that you can have
the struts at a higher pressure to the leading edge. Once
you’ve pumped up the leading edge, the struts are
automatically locked off so a leak in one will not deflate
them all. North have also included new one way valves that
are even better than before. All this gives a very quick
rigging time.
Control Bar System
> North 07 bar, simple
and easy to use, one bar fits all, keeping costs down. Getting
the line lengths equal is pretty key with the rhino, but
its easy to trim as there is so much adjustment through
the vario cleat.
Overall >
A well refined kite with immense power and depower. A great
kite for those who are used to the grunt of a classic kite
but with the added bonus of a large wind range, going to
put a big smile on the face of anyone who is lucky enough
to use it! Maybe not for the complete beginner but anyone
who's jumping and looking to progress will really benefit
from the Rhino 07.
You can view more information on the
North Rhino 07 here >
Regards,
Charlie Railton
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