Leaderboard

Has there ever been a kite with a feature to improve dead launches? I can imagine a roll-bar-like feature that bows forward between the upper spreader and nose. That would lift the nose a few inches allowing it to scoop air. It would also (probably?) give the kite a 3-point stance between the bow and wingtips that minimized wear on other bits. I’m not sure what the negatives might be. It could be over-engineering for a problem that isn’t much of a problem as you become a more proficient pilot. Still, dead-launch to lazy is a pretty cool maneuver, so....... 😄

Apart from kites specifically designed around it, probably no. For examples, see this old thread. JB described some limited options in this old thread but they depend on specific conditions and have a risk of breaking a spar.

I put a leech line in a Widow. Worked out really great. Only thing I wish I would have done is started loose and then tightened it of needed. Seems mine is a little tight and makes the wings flutter and twitch in moderate winds. Need to add a little chunk of line to my leech to let it relax a little. But it's so much more enjoyable to fly now for me. I fly around alot of people usually and some are reading or having picnics with their family. I hate having a super loud kite in situations like that.