I like this kite. Maybe it is also the graphics with the triangles, but it is
a reliable flier with good wind range. I think the space (openings) between the
panels act as "vents" to give it excellent stability regardless of how the wind
is behaving.
If you decide to construct this kite, I suggest you save the
individuals images (On my browser, click the right mouse buttom over any image
and save) to later print the image from a saved file. After printing, just use
the 20-23 sheets of images as a manual.
The materials needed for construction include:
Ripstop nylon, 3/4 oz. --
5 yds @ 40 in. wide
Wood Dowel, 1/4" dia. -- 6 pcs x 48" lg.
Wood Dowel,
5/16" dia. -- 12 pcs x 48" lg.
Misc. -- arrow nocks, Fg or brass tubing for
the external ferrules, barrel beads, 1/2" dia. metal slip rings, and 20+ ft. of
line for the bridle and some of the connection points.
This kite seemed at times an endless exercise in sewing the 47 panels, but
the saving grace is the sewing is all on similar, straight panels and you get
into a routine after starting.
Before the panel cutting and sewing steps would be the planning of the graphics or panel colors. As suggested in the Kite Plan Index, this planning could use Paint Shop Pro or Windows Paintbrush.
| ITEM | QTY | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | 1 | 1/4" dia. x ~59" lg. wood dowel w/ arrow nocks on each end. |
| #2 | 4 | 1/4" dia. x ~45" lg. wood dowel w/ arrow nocks on each end. |
| #3 | 6 | 5/16" dia. x ~74" lg. wood dowel w/ arrow nock on one end and ferrule for disassembly. |
| Determine exact lengths at time of rigging. |
Takedown and setup requires only removing or installing the 6 cross spars,
#3. Remember to slip them through the spar guides as shown above in Step #2 of
the Fititngs/ Connectors section. The splines, #1 & #2, are kept in place
when bagged and transported.
There are instructions for making a storage bag with the ROK plans.
The space between the vents seems to really stablize this kite in flight, so this characteristic I'm believe would allow these different variations alot of error on length/ width ratio or whatever other flight ratios are important. Then again, I haven't tried these variations and what do I know..........
