2012 Cabrinha Drifter.
Size tested: 9 m
What we liked:
A completely new three-strut design from Cabrinha, the Drifter shows much more refinement than one would expect from a new model. The first thing that really stands out is the Drifter’s ability to generate smooth power, both in a straight line and in the turns, especially in the lighter to medium end of its wind range. The square wing tips and moderate delta design shape give fast, instantaneous turning, and the medium bar pressure provides excellent positional feedback. The tight canopy results in a flutter less and quiet flight and smooth feel on the bar, even during aggressive manoeuvres.
Tuning tip:
It flew perfectly straight out of the bag.
Buyer beware:
Re-launch wasn’t as fast as we expected from a surf kite, but even the most intermediate of riders won’t have a hard time getting the Drifter back into the air. Less jumping ability than more dedicated free ride designs.
Bottom line:
Bring on the wave season... we love the Drifter!
Control bar:
The new Quick Link offers some major changes on the Cabrinha bar for 2012, that have dramatically reduced the feeling of clutter near the main quick release. The new spinning leash connection, and the moving of the landing line quick release are the two well thought out design changes that make the new Quick Link control system more intuitive to use. The system also features on internal swivel for manually untwisting flying lines in unison with the landing line. The IDS provides for easy self-landing without the kite spinning on one line making it unlike many other safety systems.
