Utah Windriders Association

Hi All!

My name is Geoff Bean. I live in Spanish Fork and have been really interested in getting into kiteboarding. I've currently only flown 2 and 4 line stunt kites, but I long for the power!

I'm currently looking at getting a trainer kite like the Rush IV Pro. I'm wondering if I should spend the money on a trainer kite like that, or go with something a bit cheaper and save up to get a full size inflatable?

Also would everyone recommend starting out on a trainer kite or getting a more beginner full size kite and just jump into lessons? Any input would be appreciated.

I look forward to getting out this year to Utah lake and meeting people and jumping into the sport!

Geoff,

You asked some good questions.

1. Yes, I would recommend starting with a trainer kite. The Rush IV Pro is a good choice because it is easier to relaunch than most trainer kites. Another good trainer is the Ozone Imp. I recommend the 2.5M size. Spend some quality hours flying the trainer kite. I recommend planting your backside in the grass and flying it until you get to the point that you are no longer crashing the kite. Usually, that is 5 - 10 hours of flying time. You are then ready for a lesson.
2. No, do not buy a full-size inflatable until you have had at least one lesson. Too many newbies make this mistake and end up with kites that are not suitable for Utah's wind conditions or buy completely out of date junk.

I am glad to hear that you are willing to take lessons. The single biggest mistake that I see is new riders trying to learn on their own. Usually, they struggle for months and some injure themselves. A lesson is the single best investment you can make in kiteboarding. It is more important than the gear.

Have fun and I hope to see you out there!

Kenny

Hey Kenny,

Thanks a bunch for the reply! I ended up ordering the Rush IV 3.0 today and it should be here in a few days

I'm not one to just jump into something blindly and go. Especially when there are so many technical aspects to the sport.

Hopefully I'll be able to set up some lessons when it starts heating up and get out on the water this year!

--Geoff

Goeff,

Did you ever take your first lesson? I am in your same boat. I have flown my trainer kite and now I am ready to take my first lesson. However, I have tried to get lessons but it seems that no one is interested in giving a lesson. If you took you lesson, who did you take it from? How much was the lesson? Was one lesson enough to get on your own? And where did you take the lesson? Any information is much appreciated.

Mike

I teach. Give me a call Don Losee 385.208.2497

Hey Mike,

I still haven't gotten out to get my first lesson yet. I've mostly been flying my 3.5 rush IV in fields and did a bit of flying on my longboard down some trails. I'm hoping to get out and take a lesson in July and then go from there.

Don,

I'll keep that in mind when I go to start my lessons. What do you charge? And where do you usually teach at?

--Geoff