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Trick
Kite Bridle Adjustment
Bridles adjustments let you move the tow point around relative
to the kite’s centre of gravity and the aerodynamic centres of
the sail. Note: The adjustments you make will be very small-
usually only ¼” at a time.

To adjust bridle, grasp and pull outward to release the knot.
(See Fig 1)
Once unlocked, the tow-point (pig-tail) will slide freely up and
down the bridle. (You can always put it back to the factory
setting after you adjust it. Because the factory setting is at
the black mark.
(See Fig 2)
Once your adjustment has been made, pull the pig-tail outward to
re-lock the knot.
(See Fig 3)
Final position should look like this. Which is the same as
before you started the adjustment.
(See Fig 4)
The reason you move the bridle tow point up and down is to
change the kite’s Angle of Attack (the angle at which the air
flowing past meets the wing).
More nose into the wind for light winds (lower angle of
attack). This gives you more lift and forward speed.
The trade off: Wider, mushier turns.
Move the tow point down to tip the nose away from the wind in
stronger winds. (higher angle of attack). This slows the kite
down, increases pull , and gives more precision.
The trade off: If you go too far, the kite won’t drive upwards
and may start to over-steer.
IN VERY STRONG WINDS:
Move the tow points up towards a light-wind position again. This
will de-power the sail, reduce the pull, and help you keep from
breaking an expensive frameset. |