The Starkites SBow 09 is now in its fourth generation, being the initial kite surfing kite that put Starkites on the map as a manufacturer back in 2006.
Originally it was developed as an entry-level kite, Starkites having close relations with the IKO looked at developing the perfect kite for getting started in kite surfing. Since then the SBow has evolved over 4 years into its current incarnation.
The kit is now much more of a freeride design, still perfect for learning on, but also being very adept at turning its hand to waves, jumps and even freestyle. Jan Marcos Riveras used the SBow solely for his challenge to take the KPWT wave tour crown.
This year Starkites have really stepped up their game in terms of construction, the kite features one pump, plenty of reinforcements and extra panels and stitching in all the right places. The kite itself is a very flat design using fairly extensive bridling to help the leading edge keep its flat arc.
The BarAt first glance the bar looks very well made and it is certainly well designed. There is an excellent spinning safety system that can either be used as it is supplied, or you can adjust it to a handle pass leash style set up. The de-power is an above bar pull webbing system, but it is easy to reach and works well. The chicken loop is moulded so it fits into the bar, which makes hooking in and out easy and the whole set up looks very clean and well thought out.
The bar itself, in the hands, feels comfy and the grip is tack enough to ensure it won’t slip when you are pulling kiteloops in high winds.
In the Air
The 8m SBow has a surprising amount of power for such a small kite. At the bottom end of its wind range it delivers plenty of grunt to get you up and riding earlier than you would expect. With the pulley 2:1 bridle system the kite also delivers a lot of depower. More importantly this depower is from a very short “throw” of the bar. You don’t have to move the bar very far away from you to achieve a loss of power. This takes a little getting used to at first, but will be a confidence building safety feature for the more tentative rider out there. You really can switch the kite off with minimum input from the bar.
The downside of this is that you can get caught out doing kiteloops, if you sheet out a little too much mid loop the kite looses power and steering and leaves you heading for a splash. If you are going to kite loop this kite then make sure you keep the bar pulled in the whole way round. If you do this you’ll find it loops with a smooth turn and develops an impressive tug.
For a freeride kite it also delivers some blistering jump performance. When at the top end of its wind range the hangtime is immense and we enjoyed quite a few over-powered sessions on the 8m. Upwind is excellent too, the thin leading edge profile allowing the kite to attack the edge of the window and drag you upwind at speed.
Pros
Well built, impressive bar set up and excellent freeride characteristics, good jumps, great upwind, quick efficient depower.
Cons
While that depower is great for learning and safety its on/off nature will take a little getting used to. Once you have the kite dialled in though, the performance will surprise you.
Overall
The SBow is a great freeride kite that will be happy in a lot of different situations. Beginners, intermediates and people who want something safe in a big wind will appreciate the SBow
For more information go to your local dealer or visit www.starkites.com. For more information on kite sufing, kite surfing equipment or kite sufing lessons visit www.s2as.com