2005
KITE MANUAL
CONTRA • NITRO • CO2 • ELEMENT
RELEASE OF LIABILITY
AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
DO NOT USE THIS PRODUCT UNLESS YOU AGREE
WITH THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
IMPORTANT
WARNING!
THIS WARNING IS FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
AND PROTECTION. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE
WITH THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, DO
NOT USE THIS PRODUCT. KINDLY RETURN
THIS PRODUCT BEFORE USING IT, AND
YOUR PURCHASE PRICE WILL BE
REFUNDED IN FULL. THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL IS FOR YOUR
REFERENCE AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO
CHANGE AT ANYTIME.
YOU MUST READ THE
INCLUDED USER MANUAL
BEFORE USING THIS
PRODUCT
IF YOU ARE BELOW THE AGE OF 18, YOU
SHOULD LET YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN
READ THE ABOVE STATEMENT AND THIS
MANUAL AND SHOULD NOT USE THIS
PRODUCT UNLESS UNDER PROPER GUIDANCE
AND SUPERVISION OF SUCH PERSON OR
PERSONS WHO HAVE READ THIS MANUAL.
FOR CURRENT UPDATES TO THIS MANUAL,
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:
www.cabrinhakites.com
The purchaser/user of this product (if they
are not the same person) and the parent
and guardian of the user (if user is below
the age of 18) understands that the use of
this product may expose the user to certain
unavoidable risks, dangers, and hazards.
The purchaser/user of this product
voluntarily assumes these risks. Before
using this product, the purchaser/user has
carefully reviewed, understood, and agrees
to comply with the terms of the User's
Manual. The purchaser/user of this product
understands and agrees to comply with the
terms of the sale. The purchaser/user of
this product understands that the seller is
not responsible for any damage to property
or injury caused by negligent operation of
this product by the purchaser or user, and
the purchaser/user releases the seller from
all such liability. Kiteboarding is an adult
sport. Power kites and their lines and
control equipment can be dangerous to
flyers and to anyone in the vicinity of their
use. Kiteboarding must be taken seriously
and we recommend that, at least in the
early stages of your use, you seek the
guidance of professional instructors and
experienced kiteboarders. Improper and/or
negligent use of this kite may result in
serious injury or death to yourself and
others. Do not use your kite near power
lines, airports or streets, and keep your kite
fly lines away from people and obstacles.
Always fly in an open area, observe wind
and weather conditions, particularly in
circumstances where you may encounter
offshore winds or strong winds. Do not
attempt to use your kite on water until you
are confident and comfortable with the use
of a trainer kite on land. Spend time to
become familiar with the operation of your
kite and remember that you are responsible
for its safe operation and for the safety of
those around you. As you learn the sport,
work within your own limitations and do not
exceed them. If you intend to use the kite on
water, always use appropriate safety and
flotation devices and do not attach yourself
or tie yourself permanently to the kite lines.
The kite is not intended for use as a flying
device nor indeed is it intended as a means
of flotation.
2005 KITE MANUAL
CONTENTS
WARNING
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
SAFETY
Safety Information / Safety Gear / Weather Condition
Wind Range Chart
Know Your Ability Level / Kiteboarding Locations
KITE OVERVIEW
Kite with Recon Generation 2 Control System
Kite with Recon Generation 1 Control System
RECON SECURITY LEASH
& RELAUNCH SYSTEM
Important Information / Tips
Security Pin / Engaging / Releasing
TAP OUT™
Switching Modes
Launch Mode / Ride Mode
Important Recon System Care Tips
Resetting Your Recon System
Re-Launching With Your Recon System
BYPASS™ Leash / Tips
SET UP
Quick Release System (QRS)
Quick Release Operation / Resetting
SET UP - STEP 1
Set Up the Recon Generation 2 Powerlock Control System
Set Up the Powerlock Classic Control System
1.1 Check Your Line Lengths Before Going on The Water
1.2 Line Length Corrections
SET UP - STEP 3
Attaching Control Lines
Downwind Launch Setup
Upwind Launch Setup
SET UP
Tuning the Kite / Tips
KITEBOARDING BASICS
Area of Operation
Kite Positions, Zones, and Power
STEERING LAUNCHING & LANDING
Steering
Planning Your Launch
Launching with a Partner
Self-Launching
Landing a Kite to Your Partner
Re-Launching
REPAIRS
Replacing Flying Lines
Kite Fabric Repairs
Key Points to Remember
Repairing Strut Bladders
Repairing Leading Edge Bladders
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Beach Etiquette
Kite Care
GLOSSARY
SET UP - STEP 2
2.1 Inflating the Struts
2.2 Inflating the Leading Edge
2.3 Tips for Securing Your Kite
2.4 Deflating the Leading Edge
2005 KITE MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
THANK YOU for purchasing a Cabrinha kite and
welcome to the sport of kiteboarding.
As you may know, the excitement of kiteboarding
is attracting people of all ages from all corners of the
globe. It's one of the most dynamic and fastest
growing sports of the new decade.
It can also be overwhelming if not approached in
an educated and safe manner. That's why we have
supplied this extensive user's manual. It will help to
educate you about your new kite and about the safe
ways in which to use it. It also contains information
regarding the set-up, care and maintenance of your
new kite so that you can spend as much time on the
water as possible.
Please read this user's manual carefully and
entirely before using this kite. This manual is not
intended to replace proper kiteboarding instruction,
but rather to supplement it. Do not attempt to
kiteboard without appropriate instruction. It will
make this sport safer, not only for yourself, but for
those around you.
SAFETY
SAFETY INFORMATION / SAFETY GEAR / WEATHER CONDITIONS
SAFETY INFORMATION
KITEBOARDING is an extremely diverse sport, with many disciplines and ability levels. As with
all sports, there can be certain inherent risks. The following contains key safety points to
remember when operating your Cabrinha kite.
• Be familiar with the set up and use of the supplied security systems:
the Recon Release with TAP OUT and the Quick Release systems.
• Make sure your Recon System is rigged and used according to the supplied instructions and that your
Recon compatible kite is used with a Recon compatible control bar system.
• Always use your Cabrinha kite with a security system.
• NEVER permanently attach yourself to this kite, the control bar, or lines.
• NEVER use this kite as a flying device.
• NEVER touch the kite lines while they are under tension; do not catch the kite using these lines.
• When inflated but not in use, secure your kite with sand or with something heavy and non-abrasive;
the more weight the better (see “Kite Care” for more information). An inflatable power kite will still fly,
even without a rider, so be mindful of those around you and secure your kite. Your kite may cause
serious injury or death if it launches unexpectedly.
• Do not lend your gear to someone who has not been fully instructed on the use of inflatable kites. Other
users should also read this user's manual and be proficient in all its points.
• Check your gear before going on the water. Insure that your flying lines, safety systems, kite, board, etc. are all rigged properly and are in working order.
WIND, WATER, AND WEATHER CONDITIONS
• Do not underestimate the power of the wind.
• Be aware of unpredictable and changing weather conditions.
• Avoid "offshore" wind conditions and use extreme caution in "onshore" wind conditions.
• Avoid strong, gusty wind.
• Be careful of wave conditions, especially when learning.
• Be educated about tides and rip currents.
• Be mindful of your ability level. Do not kiteboard if conditions are beyond your ability level.
• Be educated about air and water temperatures and wear appropriate protection against the elements.
• Do not use this product in thunderstorms.
• Consult an anemometer to determine wind speeds if necessary.
• Do not use an oversized kite. Consult your Wind Range Chart for the correct recommended size. Use your common sense. If in doubt about what
kite size to use, choose smaller rather than bigger.
SAFETY GEAR
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THE USE
OF THE FOLLOWING PROTECTIVE GEAR:
•HELMET
•LIFE JACKET, IMACT VEST,
OR FLOTATION VEST
•NEOPRENE WET SUIT
•GLOVES
•FOOT PROTECTION
•EYE PROTECTION
•SAFETY KNIFE
•SUNSCREEN
SAFETY
WIND RANGE CHART
This wind range chart is only to be used as a point of reference. It is based upon a rider who is approximately 170 lbs. (75 kg).
Actual use may vary based on your body weight, ability level, water conditions, board size , and riding style. When choosing a kite
size, please use your personal experience, common sense, and always check what other riders are using on the water for a size
reference.
CONTRA
NITRO
CO2 16
ELEMENT
RECON SIM
4 MPH 8 MPH 20 MPH12 MPH 16 MPH
3.5 KNOTS 6.9 KNOTS 17.3 KNOTS10.4 KNOTS 13.9 KNOTS 20.8 KNOTS
23.5
19.5
16.5
14
12
10
8
6.5
5
18
14
12
10
8
6
20
17
14
12
10
8
6
4
3
2
24 MPH
+++ +++
* How to read: Dark = best suited for. Gray = usable. White = not recommended.
SAFETY
KNOW YOUR ABILITY LEVEL / KITEBOARDING LOCATIONS
KNOW YOUR ABILITY LEVEL KITEBOARDING LOCATION
• Do not attempt kiteboarding without appropriate
instruction.
• Do not kite alone.
• Launch, land, and ride together with a partner or have
someone on shore who can keep an eye on you.
• Make sure you are in good physical condition before using
this product.
• Practice flying a small, traction kite or a "trainer kite"
before flying this kite.
• The more time spent on the "trainer kite", the safer and the
faster you will learn.
• Make sure you are a proficient swimmer before using this
product in or near the water.
• Make sure the wind and water conditions are within your
ability level and that you have made the correct equipment
choices.
• Never kiteboard further from shore than you are able to
swim back.
• Always save a reserve of energy; end your kiteboarding
session before you are exhausted.
• Make sure you've done your homework and that you know
the safety precautions of all aspects of the sport: rigging,
launching, landing, flying, riding, kiting among other water
users, self rescuing, etc.
• Understand your safety systems before ever launching your
kite.
• Understand the technique of self-rescue before using this
product in or near the water.
• Never let someone who is not familiar with inflatable kites
launch, catch, or use your kite. You will endanger them, as
well as yourself and those around you.
• You are responsible for the safe operation of your kite.
•Observe local laws and regulations regarding this
product and the usage area.
•Talk to the local riders about the weather conditions
and beach rules.
•Check your area thoroughly before launching your kite.
•Make sure you have considerable space in which to
launch, land, and use this product.
•You should have at least 100 meters of space on both
sides and downwind of you. Be especially aware of
your downwind area.
•Be mindful and aware of the wind direction in relation
to your launch area.
•Avoid areas with rocks and/or shallow or exposed
reefs.
•Be mindful of tide changes. As water levels change,
you may be exposed to new obstructions.
•Avoid launching, landing or using this product near
power lines, telephone poles, trees, people, pets,
buildings, automobiles, streets, sharp objects and
airports.
•Avoid crowded beaches and waterways.
•Make sure your lines do not cross a walkway or
passage.
•Do not let others walk between you and your kite.
•Be careful and mindful of other water users, including
windsurfers, boaters, jet skiers, swimmers, floating
objects, etc.
•Before launching, make sure you have scouted a safe
landing area, in case you do not make it back to your
launch spot.
1
0
KITE OVERVIEW
WITH RECON GENERATION 2 CONTROL SYSTEM
1
9
3 3
13 13
17 17
18
11
10
2
14
16
15
31
12
1. 4-LINE KITE
2. RECON BRIDLE ASSEMBLY
7
3. RECON REAR PIGTAIL
4. RECON TENSION FITTING (FRONT/REAR)
5. RECON LOAD TRANSFER TIP
4
6. RECON TENSION BULLET
8
7. RECON ACTIVATION LINE (ON TRAILING EDGE)
8. RESCUE HANDLES
6
5
4
9. TRUE MATCH 3-D BATTENS
10. DACRON LEADING EDGE
11. AIRLOCK HIGH VOLUME VALVE
12. STANDARD INFLATION VALVES
13. STEERING LINES (REAR CONTROL LINES)
19
18
21
22
20
23
14. DE-POWER LINES (FRONT CONTROL LINES)
15. CENTERLINE ADJUSTMENT STRAP
16. LINE STOPPERS
17. LEADER LINES
18. RE-LAUNCH ASSISTANCE BALL GRIPS
19. EVA QUICK RELEASE BEAD
24
25
2929
20. QUICK CONNECT RING
21. RELEASE PIN
22. LOCK SLIDE
23. RELEASE CAGE
24. RELEASE PLATE
25. LOCK BARREL
26. POWERLOCK LOOP
26
28
33
30
*diagram not to scale
27
30
32
27. POWERLOCK HOOK
28. SWIVEL BODY
29. BAR FLOATS
30. MULTI-FUNCTIONAL BAR ENDS
31. DE-POWER LINE
32. HARNESS LOOP QUICK RELEASE
33. RECON HARNESS LOOP W/ SECURITY PIN
KITE OVERVIEW
WITH RECON GENERATION 1 CONTROL SYSTEM
11
1
18
10
9
2
3 3
14
13
17 17
16
21 21
23
25
15
19
20
24
*diagram not to scale
12
7
4
8
6
4-LINE KITE
1.
RECON BRIDLE ASSEMBLY
2.
RECON REAR PIGTAIL
13
18
2222
3.
RECON TENSION FITTING (FRONT/REAR)
4.
RECON LOAD TRANSFER TIP
5.
RECON TENSION BULLET
6.
RECON ACTIVATION LINE (ON TRAILING EDGE)
7.
RESCUE HANDLES
8.
TRUE MATCH 3-D BATTENS
9.
MULTI-SEGMENTED DACRON LEADING EDGE
10.
AIRLOCK HIGH VOLUME VALVE
11.
STANDARD INFLATION VALVES
12.
STEERING LINES (REAR CONTROL LINES)
13.
DE-POWER LINES (FRONT CONTROL LINES)
14.
RECON CENTER LEADER LINE
15.
CENTERLINE ADJUSTMENT STRAP W/ RECON QR SYSTEM
16.
LEADER LINES
17.
RE-LAUNCH ASSISTANCE BALL GRIPS
18.
LINE STOPPER
19.
RECON RELEASE HANDLE
20.
BAR FLOATS
21.
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL BAR ENDS
22.
POWERLOCK FITTING
23.
POWERLOCK DE-POWER LINE WITH QUICK RELEASE
24.
RECON HARNESS LOOP W/ SECURITY PIN
25.
4
5
RECON GENERATION 2
RECON SECURITY LEASH & RELAUNCH SYSTEM
RECON GENERATION 2 - IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The Recon Security Leash & Relaunch System (RECON) is standard equipment on all of the 2004 & 2005 Cabrinha
inflatable kites. This patent pending system is both a unique security leash and a relaunch system, which allows the
rider to immediately turn off the power of the kite by activating the Recon's quick release handle. The same features that
de-power the kite also assist in quicker relaunching.
The Recon Security Leash and Relaunch System allows the rider to:
• Shut down the kite instantly by activating the Recon release handle.
• Water relaunch with ease.
• Spin the bar.
Tips
• All 2004 & 2005 Cabrinha kites must be used with Recon compatible control systems in order for the Recon's
IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ feature to work properly.
• Furthermore, if a Recon compatible control bar is used with a kite that does not have the integrated Recon System
(e.g. a 2003 kite), it is dangerous to activate the Recon Release to de-power the kite. You may still use a Recon
control system on an older kite, but activating the Recon Release will actually power up the kite (not de-power it) on
a kite not equipped with the integrated Recon System.
• Using an older control bar system with the 2004 & 2005 Cabrinha kites will allow you to enable the relaunch feature
of the kite, but will not accommodate the IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ feature.
• NOTE: We suggest that the Recon only be activated when considered necessary or when landing your kite.
• Before using the Recon, make sure your Recon system is set up correctly. It is important that you use the control bar
recommended for the kite.
• Before each session, check that the Recon is in working order.
• You should be familiar with the operation of the Recon in the event of a situation in which you wish to activate the
system. (see “TAP OUT™” & "TAP OUT™ (OPERATION)").
• Once the Recon is released, your kite will not fly until you manually reset the Recon on the center line.
(see “RESETTING THE RECON SYSTEM”).
RECON GENERATION 2
SECURITY PIN
SECURITY PIN
This security leash is Recon's Security Spinning Leash, and is active only when the rider
is hooked into the Harness Loop. Therefore it is important that a secure connection is
made between the Harness Hook and the Harness Loop. This system allows you to depower the kite completely, spin your bar freely, and re-launch your kite easily, all while
still being safely connected to your kite.
• You must be hooked into the Quick Release (QR) Harness Loop in order to activate
the Recon's IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ feature.
• Insert the Security Pin into the Harness Hook under the Loop. (Fig.1)
• Make sure your Quick Release and Recon Systems are set up properly before
launching or engaging the Security Pin on your Harness Loop.
• We suggest that you engage the Security Pin only when on the water, not while on
land.
NOTE: Be advised that when the Security Pin is engaged, you have a semi-permanent connection to the kite. As a safety precaution, know where your
Quick Release Handle is and be educated on how to activate it before engaging the Security Pin.
SECURITY PIN - ENGAGING
1. Double check that your QR and Recon systems are set up
properly.
2.Hook into your harness loop. (Fig.2)
3.Once hooked into the harness loop, only engage the Security
Pin once you are safely on the water and at a safe distance
from any obstructions.
4. Insert the Security Pin into the center of the harness hook,
making sure it is below the harness loop. Your harness loop
must be between the harness hook and the Security Pin in
order for this feature to work properly. (Fig.3)
5.Make sure that the Security Pin is secure. This will keep your harness loop from accidentally dropping out of your harness hook. Your Security Pin
is now ready for use.
(Fig.2)
(Fig.1)
(Fig.3)
SECURITY PIN - RELEASING
You may disengage from the Security Pin in two ways:
A. With your hands, slide the Security Pin out of the harness
hook. (Fig.4)
B. Release the Quick Release Handle on your harness loop.
(Fig.5)
(Fig.4)
(Fig.5)
RECON GENERATION 2
TAP OUT™
TAP OUT™
Recon Generation 2 has added an important security feature by taking one step out of the release
activation equation. The new Tap Out™ feature allows the rider to simply push the control bar to
activate the Immediate DEPOWER™ function.
This second generation of Recon allows the rider to immediately turn off the power of the kite, even
while riding, by tapping the control bar against the release handle. The rider then stays connected
to the de-powered kite by a leash that is integrated into the harness loop. As long as the rider is
hooked into the harness loop, they are connected to the leash.
(Fig.1) (Fig.2) (Fig.3) (Fig.4)
Recon Generation 2 allows the rider to enable, or turn on the Tap Out™ security function prior to launching, landing, or at anytime while riding. This is
simply done by selecting the “Launch” mode on the Recon release. (Fig.1)
Whenever the rider is safely on the water they can choose to select the “Ride” mode on the release. (Fig.2) The “Ride” mode disables the Tap Out™
function and allows the rider to let go of the bar to un-spin his lines if necessary. (Fig.3)
The IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ function can still be activated anytime in either the Launch mode or Ride mode, by lifting the release handle in the direction
of the kite. (Fig.4)
TAP OUT™ - Launch Mode The Tap out function is only
operable while in the Launch mode.
Prior to the launching of your kite, select LAUNCH on the mode selector
by pulling down on the lock barrel to align the arrow with the word
LAUNCH on the red release handle. The Tap Out™ function is now
enabled and can be activated by pushing the control bar against the
bottom of the release mechanism.
NOTE: In LAUNCH mode, it is not possible to let go of the control system
to spin the bar. Letting go of the bar may activate the Tap Out™ release
and trigger an immediate de-powering of the kite.
TAP OUT™ - Ride Mode This mode is to be used when you want
to be free to let go of the bar and un-spin the bar.
NOTE: When the RIDE mode is selected, the Tap Out™ function is
CAUTION! Know which mode you are in at all times in order to prevent an unintentional release of the Recon.
disabled. This means that you must manually activate the IMMEDIATE
DEPOWER™ release by pushing the red release handle in the direction
of the kite. Pushing the control bar against the release system will not
activate the Tap Out™ function.
Once safely on the water you may choose to select the Ride mode or
you can keep the Tap Out™ enabled by remaining in the LAUNCH mode.
To select the RIDE mode, pull down on the lock barrel and turn clockwise
or counter clockwise until the arrow lines up with the word RIDE on the
red release handle.
TIP: Hold the upper release plate and rotate the lock barrel. You will
see the bungee at an angle as an extra indicator that the system is in
RIDE mode. Be aware that until the system is in RIDE, the release can
be unintentionally activated by applying upward force to the system.
RECON GENERATION 2
TAP OUT™ (OPERATION)
(Fig.1a) (Fig.2) (Fig.3) (Fig.4) (Fig.1b) (Fig.2) (Fig.3) (Fig.4)
TAP OUT™ - while in LAUNCH MODE
1. To activate the IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ function while in Launch
Mode, simply push the bar against the Recon Release Handle,
located at the base of the Centerline Adjustment Strap (CAS).
(Fig.1a)
2.This will release the Tap Out™ quick release below the Centerline
Adjustment Strap (CAS). (Fig.2)
3.Once the Tap Out™ quick release is activated, the CAS will slide up
the side leaders.
4.This will cause increased tension in the steering (back) fly lines and
create slack in the de-power (front) fly lines.
5.The Recon Bullet will then disengage from the Recon Tension Fitting
(RTF) on the wing tip of the kite. (Fig.3)
6. When the Bullet is disengaged from the RTF, the Recon Activation
Line will tighten around the trailing edge of the kite and collapse the
foil, effectively turning off the power of the kite.
7.The kite will fully de-power and will drop out of the sky toward the
water. (Fig.4)
If you activated the Recon while on the water, follow the steps of self-rescue and swim to shore. You may also reset the Recon (see “Resetting the
Recon”) and resume your session, if you choose, but note that this is an intermediate-advanced technique. If you activated the Recon system when
landing your kite, have your partner safely secure your kite on shore, reset the Recon, and then wind your lines on the control bar.
NOTE: The Recon System is intended to be used for landing your kite and for emergency situations only.
NOTE: The kite will not fly again until you manually reset the Recon on the CAS. (see “Resetting the Recon Release System”).
TAP OUT™ - while in RIDE MODE
1.To activate the IMMEDIATE DEPOWER™ function while in Ride Mode,
simply push the Recon Release Plate, located at the base of the
Centerline Adjustment Strap (CAS). (Fig.1b)
2.This will release the Tap Out™ quick release below the Centerline
Adjustment Strap (CAS). (Fig.2)
3.Once the Tap Out™ quick release is activated, the CAS will slide away,
while being contained by the side leaders.
4.This will cause increased tension in the steering (back) fly lines and
create slack in the de-power (front) fly lines.
5.The Recon Bullet will then disengage from the Recon Tension Fitting
(RTF) on the wing tip of the kite. (Fig.3)
6. When the Bullet is disengaged from the RTF, the Recon Activation
Line will tighten around the trailing edge of the kite and collapse the
foil, effectively turning off the power of the kite.
7.The kite will fully de-power and will drop out of the sky toward the
water. (Fig.4)
RECON GENERATION 2
SYSTEM CARE TIPS
IMPORTANT SYSTEM CARE TIPS
• When your kite is not in use, make sure to
reset the Bullet into the RTF on the wing tip of
the kite. This helps prevent the bridle lines
from becoming tangled with the Bullet. (Fig.1)
• Before winding your lines onto your bar, make
sure to reset your Recon System.
• When stowing your kite on the beach between
sessions, make sure to weigh your kite down
with sand in order to keep your kite from
flapping in the wind. This not only prevents
unnecessary wear on the kite fabric, but also
helps prevent your bridle lines and Recon
system from becoming tangled.
• Be sure to completely clear the RTF of all sand
and debris prior to launching or storing your
kite.
(Fig. 1)
• Contain your kite leaders on the attached
Velcro holders on the wing tips. (Fig.2)
(Fig. 2)
Loading...