EXP leading edge for SLE: weights

[ilh]

I just received my EXP (3-wrap) frame for my 1.5M SLE in an attempt to extend my low end. I hope to fly it soon. In the mean time, I put things on our kitchen scale...

My observations:

stock 1.5M SLE: 10.2oz

with 3-wrap leading edge: 8.6oz

with 2-wrap frame: 7.6oz estimated -- don't have (yet)

1.5M SLE sail (with bridle, endcaps, bungees, etc.): 5.3oz

I hope to obtain a vented sail soon to extend my high end.

--Lee

[REVflyer]

the most help extending the wind range of your REV is going to be using a longer throw handle, lighten the components only works so far.

I prefer my REVs with 1-1/2 ounce nylon as the leading edge sleeve, rather than the 3.9 ounce dacron. So, with that in mind my next vented kite will be an SUL. I'll cut and sew in the vents myself, using the existing location, but only half of the factory's width.

I'm not the originator of this set-up either, merely a copy-cat!

[ilh]

I think you're right about the handles. I was flying in 2-4mph today at the beach (EXP LE) and there were definitely times when I felt I needed more throw. The handles that came with my SLE are 12".

I have some unused Rev II SUL handles that are 10.5". I think I might extend them with some scrap wrapped graphite in the bottom. What is a good length to shoot for? 14"? 16"? I realize it comes down to personal taste.

EDIT: I ended up extending to 15" as a start. They turned out great. Some details here, will provide more if anyone is interested.

Anyways, I'm glad I bought the EXP leading edge for my SLE. I would not have been flying it today with the heavier leading edge.

--Lee

[The Kite Shoppe]

I just received my EXP (3-wrap) frame for my 1.5M SLE in an attempt to extend my low end.

--Lee

OK... I'm confused...so thought I'd ask a question.....

I know folks switch a lot of the tubes around for the 1.5.....but....

The 2 wrap 1.5 says Professional on it, the 3 wrap says Ultralight, and the 4 wrap is Equipped.

Are you saying you got a frame that would have been for an EXP, and put it in your 1.5?

Thanks!

Theresa

[ilh]

Yes. The EXP leading edge sticks don't say "ultralight" like the 1.5 SLE vertical sticks do. In fact, they don't have any labelling at all. However, the packaging for the outer leading edge pieces said they were also for the 1.5 SLE verticals (31"). I weighed the sticks, and they weighed the same as my 1.5 SLE "ultralight" verticals.

I don't know why these sticks are not labelled. They seem to be the 3-wrap "ultralight" sticks.

--Lee

[The Kite Shoppe]

Yes. The EXP leading edge sticks don't say "ultralight" like the 1.5 SLE vertical sticks do. In fact, they don't have any labelling at all. However, the packaging for the outer leading edge pieces said they were also for the 1.5 SLE verticals (31"). I weighed the sticks, and they weighed the same as my 1.5 SLE "ultralight" verticals.

I don't know why these sticks are not labelled. They seem to be the 3-wrap "ultralight" sticks.

--Lee

OK! Thanks for the clarification

Have fun!!

Theresa

[ant man]

the exp frame on a 1.5 vented sail is the best combo package a very smooth kite with a light frame