| 17. Slow Motion Spins |
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Flight Legend:
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| Center point, slow motion spins
can be produced by changing the speed and timing of facet turns. First, facet turn through
360 degrees at 90 degree intervals with a one or two second hover at each facet point
(90,190,270,and 360 degrees). Now, with practice, you can shorten the pause at each of the
four points, and slow down the turn rate between points thus producing a slow, smooth,
continuous spin. The key is to visualize the four hover points even though you don?t
hover any more. This will allow you to stabilize the spin. (credit: Alan Nagao, High
Performance Kites, Hawaii) |
| 18. Spin and Climb |
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The REVOLUTION can actually climb
and increase altitude during a spin by increasing the lift on an individual wing at the
appropriate time. For example, as the kite flies straight up, pull sharply back on the
right wing causing it to climb above the left wing. Now,during a clockwise spin, as the
left wing climbs through the 270 degree point , pull sharply on the left control handle
causing this wing to accelerate and climb upward during this part of the spin. As it
rotates through the 360 degree point, extend the left handle back out in front of you to
the normal flying position. Now, each time the left wing rotates into climbing position,
repeat the pull (270 degrees) and release (360 degrees) sequence. Since you pull once per
rotation, this is known as the single pull, spin and climb method.
For the double pull, you need to realize that one wing is flying forward (thumb rotated
back), while the other is flying in reverse (thumb rotated forward). For the double pull
method (c.w. spin), as the forward wing climbs through the 270 degree point, accelerate by
pulling that handle while maintaining thumb back. Re-extend arm as the left wing rotates
through the 360 degree point.
Now, continuing the
spin as the reverse wing rotates through the 270 degree point, pull sharply on that handle
while maintaining forward thumb pressure. Again, re-extend the arm outward as the climbing
wing rotates through the 360 degree point. With practice, your timing will become smooth
and accurate, and the "pull and extend" sequence will resemble a circular
pumping action. Practice hand motion while visualizing kite rotation. This method can also
be used to maintain altitude during slow motion spins. |
| 19. The Float |
This is a technique used
extensively in low wind conditions, and, is in fact, the key to light wind and no wind
flying. It?s also used to regain lost ground from running back. The concept is to
pull back on one handle so far that the wing is flying layed out flat and almost parallel
to the ground similar to a plane or bird in normal flight. Start by flying across to the
side as in exercise #2. Now, pull back-on the top wing, and push out on the bottom wing.
Remember, as in all slide manuvers you must maintain forward, directed flight with proper
wrist rotation. A common mistake is to apply a reverse control as you pull the control
handle back. So to keep the kite king forward, keep both thumbs rotated back as you lay
the kite out and float it. The body position is similar to shooting a bow and arrow. For
example, left hand back to left ear, right foot forward, right hand fully extended out,
and body facing in opposite direction to forward flight. For light wind conditions, keep
the kite moving forward at all times since the wing speed is necessary to generate lift.
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Go to Advanced Flying Techniques index!
This product was added to our catalog on Monday 24 December, 2007.
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