2011 Chrono (15m and 10m) review
Out of the Bag:
The kite looks similar to its 2010 predecessor, bar the new 4 tone colour scheme; but on closer inspection there are a few subtle differences. Firstly, the one pump valves have been replaced with some very neat looking moulded plastic ones, presumability to increase durability and ease of use. Also the dimensions of the larger kites have changed - placing the 2011 15m ontop of the 2010 it is both slightly longer AND wider. which will no doubt help the bottom end. Takoon have also added extra aramid patches on the LE seams to reduced wear on self launch and land.
The bar has also had some modifications, it benefits from a new wider diameter bar grip with dimpled ends, and the safety system now deploys onto a single front line, rather than both (allowing you to use all Takoon kites with the same bar). The biggest improvement however is the new high-quality flying lines from Cousins-Trestec, which totally look and feel the business. Takoon have kept all the good points of last years model with the PU coated depower line, the clam cleat above the bar, and the good sized chicken loop and donkey stick.
In the Air:
The Chrono feels very similar to its predecessor, flying well forward in the window with plenty of grunt and medium-light bar pressure. The 15m which sat back in the window a little in 2010 has been tweaked to sit further forward, and seems to have an improved low end also. This brings the upwind performance of the smaller sizes to the 15m which will surely help its racing/performance pedigree.
As before the Chrono is a pleasure to fly, upwind performance is excellent, turning is quick, sharp and predictable, relaunch is easy, depower is excellent and is also a great kite to boost with and perhaps throw some old skool moves! As a freeride / all purpose kite, its hard to fault.
Conclusions:
I was a big fan of the 2010 Chrono, and it was a kite I used a great deal. The 2011 model brings some excellent refinements, making a very good package even better - improving the low end and upwind performance on the 15m whilst also boosting the durability of lines and kite.
The new Chrono is definately worth a look for any competent rider with either an interest in performance/racing or just cruising around and sticking some huge airs. For freestyle its perfectly capable, but it would be advisable to pick something more freestle oriented, if this is what you're after.
For more info, check out Takoon's Product PDF, view on S2AS, or compare on Wisekite
The kite looks similar to its 2010 predecessor, bar the new 4 tone colour scheme; but on closer inspection there are a few subtle differences. Firstly, the one pump valves have been replaced with some very neat looking moulded plastic ones, presumability to increase durability and ease of use. Also the dimensions of the larger kites have changed - placing the 2011 15m ontop of the 2010 it is both slightly longer AND wider. which will no doubt help the bottom end. Takoon have also added extra aramid patches on the LE seams to reduced wear on self launch and land.
The bar has also had some modifications, it benefits from a new wider diameter bar grip with dimpled ends, and the safety system now deploys onto a single front line, rather than both (allowing you to use all Takoon kites with the same bar). The biggest improvement however is the new high-quality flying lines from Cousins-Trestec, which totally look and feel the business. Takoon have kept all the good points of last years model with the PU coated depower line, the clam cleat above the bar, and the good sized chicken loop and donkey stick.
In the Air:
The Chrono feels very similar to its predecessor, flying well forward in the window with plenty of grunt and medium-light bar pressure. The 15m which sat back in the window a little in 2010 has been tweaked to sit further forward, and seems to have an improved low end also. This brings the upwind performance of the smaller sizes to the 15m which will surely help its racing/performance pedigree.
As before the Chrono is a pleasure to fly, upwind performance is excellent, turning is quick, sharp and predictable, relaunch is easy, depower is excellent and is also a great kite to boost with and perhaps throw some old skool moves! As a freeride / all purpose kite, its hard to fault.
Conclusions:
I was a big fan of the 2010 Chrono, and it was a kite I used a great deal. The 2011 model brings some excellent refinements, making a very good package even better - improving the low end and upwind performance on the 15m whilst also boosting the durability of lines and kite.
The new Chrono is definately worth a look for any competent rider with either an interest in performance/racing or just cruising around and sticking some huge airs. For freestyle its perfectly capable, but it would be advisable to pick something more freestle oriented, if this is what you're after.
For more info, check out Takoon's Product PDF, view on S2AS, or compare on Wisekite
Review Summary
|
Kite Style
Struts Inflation Front connection Rear connection Tuning options Depower Safety Low End High End Bar Pressure Turning Unhooked Upwind Hang time Relaunch |
C/Delta SLE Hybrid
6 One pump Basic SLE Bridle Direct 3 rear line options, 2 front line Mini clam cleat (above bar) Mini fifth to single front line Excellent Very good Light-Medium Medium (adjustable) Good Excellent Excellent Very Good |
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