riffclown

That's a pretty desirable kite..

only you can answer that. I'm still making mine but haven't sold too many lately. That's partly my fault for not getting out, flying and marketing them. (moderation note. moved to kite making)

I also bought a LOT of the Blue Polymax when it was on sale to play with for designs and such.

Everything I do is Icarex (PC31) and SkyShark, P2-x, P3-x, P200, p-300 or in a few case even P-400.. I don't use Fiberglass for Quads as it does not meet my need for stiffness/springiness. I buy all in bulk when available.. I have also used the P-200 and P-400 Camo rods when they were on closeout to decrease overall cost.

I use Icarex for fabric pretty much exclusively. I can't imagine using anything else routinely. Rods are far more subject to the design of the kite. you may want fiberglass in some cases and wrapped Carbon Fiber in others. I'll also quantify my statement with I only make Quadline Kites and those are all flat sails.

I had the bittersweet honor of being the last post.

I personally prefer LPG or Skybond but I'll be honest, I haven't knowingly used the Shanti Speedline.

Truly, Start here.

To quickly narrow options, Swap left and right hand lines/handles at the kite end and fly to see if the issue is the lines or the kite. if the problem switches side it's your lines and handles. if the stays on the same side it's something with the Kite or Bridles.

How you start and how you progress both have very big effects on the equipment you choose. You will likely quickly outgrow your first quad. If you are local to a quad flier, suggest trying out their equipment if possible. Shop used. Don't put all the money into the kite and be lacking on lineset and handles. A good lineset and handles is as important as the sail you choose. Freilein Vertigo is a good starter kite and I still keep a few in my bag. (a stack in fact) Getting a higher end kite like a Djinn or similar can always be a good long term move. A few extra frames would be a good move there. It has the lowest risk of being something you'd outgrow. That being said, I have an older (no brand) very entry level quad that I no longer use that's looking for a good home. It doesn't include lines or handles but if you want, I'll ship it to you on condition that when you outgrow it (and you will) just pass it on to someone else that wants to learn. DM me if interested.

Kites and lines no problem (Depending on size restrictions. Stakes will cause issues and should be checked (or buy a cheap screwdriver when you arrive) Quad Handles MAY bear further inspection due to the weapon-like shape.. Short version. Most things OK but check or leave the stake behind.

I love inverted flight.. All of the kites I make now have a bit of a bias for inverted flight..

When winding your lines after flying in a sandy environment, it's a good idea to take a very thin slightly damp cloth and run the lines through that as you wind. it will get rid of dirt particles that could rub and cause damage. Using a thin cloth to do this you will feel anything that may be trapped in the weave of your lines.

I split this off to a separate topic.

Wishing everyone the merriest of holidays with whatever tradition you observe.

CA Glue does not flex and is generally not good for non rigid surfaces.. Does something attach to this Velcro or is it just a protective wear spot?

Good to be back behind the machine.. Planning to experiment with a few frames.. We will see what works best..