Help picking out a first kite
 

Basically I am unsure of what a good kite budget and experience are factors. I can self launch my trianer and fly it with ease and I feel it is time for a real kite. I have been told to get lessons over and over but I just can't afford it, I am going to have to borrow money from my parents just to get the gear. I have been sailing for 6 years and wakeboarding for about 5. I am about 5'7" and 130 pounds. the average winds here are 8-12 kts. I have been told you want to start with a small kite and big board. Do you have any recommendations on what to buy or what to look for.

Thanks

I strongly recommend lessons.
At your size, a larger board (something 45cm wide) will allow you to make a 13m kite work. No need to go any bigger than a 13m "C" kite or 12m "bow" with a big board. :D
If you weighed 160 or more, that would not hold true. Light people don't need very big kites.

yea I was looking at an 11m bow for now I am trying to gain a few pounds so hopefully when winter rolls around I will be able to keep the same kite (If I am experienced enough). As far a rockers go would there be an advantage to a three stage or continuos or is it just personal preference?

I agree with Scott about the kite sizes and board sizes.

I would look at the Spleene Board 154x42.

for more info check out http://www.airpadrekiteboarding.com/...wtopic.php?t=4

Jeff at Air Padre is the biggest seller of Spleene and he can probably get you the best price. Just got one and LOVE it.

cheers

okay mate, I hope this could help u out a bit now.
I am a 149 pounder and a late teen. I know how it is to be in a tight budget as u are lad. But there is something called work! Yup yup yup.
okay now on to the equip, shall we?
Im a 149 with a 157 cm cabrinha prodigy( check it out)
and
2005 best yarga 13 meter
for 13-19 knts
for u i shall say
my board and a 13 or 14
gud luck brotha
Danny

:D
All sounds right to me. No bigger than 13m 8)

As far as the Cabrinha Nitro and Element both 12m with the recon control system, is that a good setup for my needs? I managed to find both in my price range (Used) or would you advise against it? It seems like the recon system for these kites is a must, but good for someone with less experience.

got that right

It's here! I was able to get a 12m Cabrinha co2 with bag bar lines pump on ebay for 250 buck brand new. I also got myself boost II dvd. I still need to tune the kite's setting a little bit but hopefully I will be rippin soon.
o yeah and does anyone know of a good place for body dragging? I was thinkin maybe sunset beach in Tarpon at high tide I only know of one rock pile and there is no boat traffic on the north side. Also as far as a harness goes what are pro's and cons of waist versus seat?

hehehe
dude, with all due respect,
I wouldnt even consider body dragging BYURSELF
come to Miami, lots of shallow water