GKblog

Shane Thompson

The GK Trix is a four-line SLE, a full-profile wakestyle and waveriding kite. The A-KPO bridle system lets the rider tune the kite’s character to suit specific style or alter performance for different conditions. Its high-powered, faster-pulling and super-jumping companion, the V Sonic, was tested and admired in the Winter issue.

Style: Hybrid four-line SLE
Wind range: 12-26 knots, expert (180 pounds)
What’s new: One-handed chicken-loop adjustment, refined canopy shape
Bar setup and safety systems
The new four-line GK bar is packed with more features than any other bar on the market. Most notable is the new quick-release trim loop with internal mechanical workings that have single-handed reload capability. The external casing of the chicken loop and stopper-ball system have been updated to a lighter, see-through material. There are flagging line handles on both bar ends and an optional front-line leash at the V. Above-the-bar trim straps are within easy reach. Attached to the mechanical stopper system, its tension can be adjusted for punching past and reaching a full arm’s length of depower. Top and bottom swivels on the trim line ensure the front lines never twist. The mini fifth-line suicide-leash option can be attached through the bar’s centre hole so advanced riders can unspin steering lines after spins.

Key kite features
GK kites are built tough with triple-reinforced leading edge, high-quality materials and double-reinforced shoulder and seam patches. The A-KPO bridle system offers the ultimate in kite-tuning options, while the single-point inflation system puts a smile on our testers’ faces.

On-water performance
The GK Trix’s solid performance suits a variety of riding styles. The kite’s flying character changes so dramatically, it’s like having three kites in one. The A-KPO bridle has the most tuning options on the market and allows the rider to alter the steering and pull to suit freestyle, waves or simple freeriding. In factory mode, the Trix is set up for medium levels of bar pressure and turning speed. It responds moderately quick to bar input and has good pop for jumps with moderate glide. In the fastest turning setup, the kite turns quickly and is best for wakestyle riding. It pulls well off the front lines and offers up good unhooked performance. Great bar input in this mode and quick pivots make this setting ideal for waves. When A-KPO is set on the front setting, bar pressure is light and upwind performance increases dramatically. Water relaunch is simple back-line pull, although not as quick as its V Sonic counterpart. However, it is more relaxed and better for the average rider than the V Sonic because its overall speed is slightly slower. The GK Trix has great depower and gets top marks for taming gusts and offering great safety for all.

Reality check
Some testers find the upwind performance in wakestyle mode less than what they’re used to. Take time to learn how to change the bridle configurations quickly.

Bottom line
The GK Trix successfully blends high-depower bridled performance with a direct feel and C-kite steering performance all skill levels can enjoy. The versatility in performance provided by the A-KPO bridles is industry-leading and gives you great options for waves, new-school wakestyle or freeride cruising.

the reflection of Dawn in mauritius…

always having fun!!

flying away….

Globe V-Sonic

2008-01-25 00:00:00-05/ Shane Thompson

The Globe V-Sonic is the high-performance SLE freeride kite that promises unmatched range, speed and massive jumping ability. It has a flatter arc, with more depower than the lower-aspect wakestyle and wave kite called the Trix. All GK kites are packed with innovative new features and industry-leading bridle systems.

Bar setup and safety systems
The new four-line GK bar is packed with more features than any other bar on the market. Most notable is the new quick-release trim loop with internal mechanical workings and single-handed reload capability. There are flagging line handles on both bar ends and an optional frontline leash at the V. The above-bar trim straps are within easy reach, as they are attached to the mechanical stopper system. Top and bottom swivels on the trim line ensure that front lines never twist. The mini fifth-line suicide leash option can be attached through the bar’s centre hole so advanced riders can unspin steering lines after spins.

Key kite features
The V-Sonic has many industry-leading features, including a single-point inflation system, A-KPO bridle system for the ultimate in adjustable kite performance, a V in the leading edge to improve stability and water relaunch, a three-times-reinforced leading edge, and shoulder patch reinforcements for extra durability.

On-water performance
Vying for the most interesting new visual look on the test, the V-Sonic’s performance proves why so many companies are studying its highly evolved bridle system. In the air, this kite is one of the most stable tested, with smooth power delivery that ensures easy access to speed through the gusts. The upwind performance is great, with easy access to power at all points of attack. This fast-pulling kite has tons of lift and is capable of massive jumps with great glide ability. Depower is smooth and progressive, with total depower that comes at arm’s length. Also impressive is the easy water relaunch. The V in the leading edge lets the kite pivot to its side, and with one simple point of the bar, you’re up and away. It is the easiest kite to relaunch in the test. Equally impressive is its high tunable performance, with multiple turning and bar-pressure options on the A-KPO bridle system. Although it takes time to study the various settings, the kite’s adaptability to different riding styles and conditions is unparalleled.

Reality check
Although they work extremely well, the stopper system and chicken loop are very mechanical and somewhat clunky, which may not appeal to every rider.

Bottom line
The V-Sonic is a solid performer with great stability, speed and turning characteristics. It suits freeriders at all levels who enjoy access to massive amounts of wind range for boosting big air.

Style: Four-line SLE / Dealers: 50 / Warranty: 90 days / Price: $1,529 / Wind range: 10-28 knots / What’s new: Quick release, more durable, V shape

SBC Kiteboard exclusive safety system, relaunch and riding video coming soon.