Not many contributions so thought we would post something about the most impressive recent development in kiteboarding. Integral system is a patented line setup unique to F1, the french brand that was the first in the world to produce kiteboards. They have been building kites longer than every other brand except Wipika the first. F1 do not build Bow kites, instead their concept was to retain the excellent flight qualities of true C-shape kites but get the depower of Bow kites. A best of both worlds approach that turned the industry on its head, spawning a heap of hybrid ideas. The F1 solution is a very simple modification to the lines setup of a 5 line kite that so far stands out from the rest due to its performance, safety and simplicity. We keep getting rave reviews about it so have finally decided to post a few here while we wait for more of your contributions.

Review on the 11m Tribal II - I've been kiting for over 2 years, operate a kite school and am an IKO instructor. Of all the brands and styles of kite (there's been many) the Tribal is the smoothest, easy to fly kite I have ever tried. Smooth power delivery with 100% de-power makes my Tribal 11m a dream to fly. Relaunching my Tribal hasn't been as much of an issue I anticipated (having ridden SLE kites for a year or so) If I do crash the 5th line system works fine. The Tribal is very responsive and turns very quickly. Bar pressure is minimal and I am always conscious of where my kite is. F-One's build quality is the best I have ever seen. In the surf the Tribal excels. Responsive turning and heaps of depower means I can place the kite anywhere in the window while I surf the waves, knowing its power is available to me when I need it. In flat water boost and hang time are what you would expect from a high performance c kite. Smooth power delivery is the highlight for me as the Tribal rides out the gusts like a SLE kite. I only need two Tribals in my quiver as a 15m and a 11m covers 10 knots through to 25+ knots. So far I have not found any negative aspects of this kite except it takes an extra minute to rig up the 5 lines!! I have no hesitation in recommending the F-One Tribal to both beginner and advanced riders as it has the qualities to suit both.

Dave - Kitethrills QLD

When combined with Short Lines, the Integral technology introduces a new level of progression possibilities to kiteboarding.

A report on the 8M SL Impact. - By all accounts this maybe the first high wind test of this kite in Australia. The short answer for its topend is 40kts for me. 95kg wet on an M8 141x41 SS board. I say 40kts based on being out the previous day at Inverloch. Where the wind meter showed 30kts and regular gusts to 36kts. Pt Danger on Sunday was more, the lulls were closer to the mid 30's and at one stage the windage of just the board was forcing me backwards. The kite looks very stubby sort of retro 2line classic stubby.  It does still need plenty of air pressure. The New Bar has a Stainless ferule that should work well and reduce line wear. The micro harness line is now incorporated in bar, the bar padding has changed to be smooth. The lines at 18m really stick the kite in your face, and response is just plain brilliant. This kite brings back the art of edging and is super reactive to edging, even more fun. At 40kts the Stop and Go function might work but worrying about the drag of the wind just on the leading edge was enough to put me off trying. Normally when under way the bar pushed all the way out shuts you down, so after a spin or loop letting go to unspin the lines has to be quick.

On waves it is pure indulgent fun. A fast ride along the face turning up then down in quick slalom type riding, just park the kite and let bar go. You are only riding the wave and totally forgetting the kite. Keep one eye on the water ahead as the forgotten kite may eventually come into view. The Short lines make recovery from slack lines so much easier. All the hype you hear is not hype. For the hardcore unhooked rubber boned brigade its high wind freestyle. For light weight beginners just brilliant and safe. For waves. A must have. Absolutely my must have. An 8 or 9m will be my only choice for riding waves from 20kts and above.

Tony - Ral Innovations VIC

If you are interested we are sure you will find out more searching the web. Anyway whatever you ride have fun and see you out there.