For the best reading experience, click View in fullscreen below.
[issuu layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml showflipbtn=true pagenumber=46 documentid=111025215823-1de68a8f5b4d465bbcb4a3813d9d6cd6 docname=2012-kiteboarding-gear-guide username=The-Kiteboarder-Magazine loadinginfotext=The%20Kiteboarder%202012%20Buyer’s%20Guide width=600 height=400 unit=px]
RRD 2012
The 2012 RRD Kitesurfing line is more extensive than ever before. Roberto Ricci and the RRD team in Italy have developed unique products for specific riding styles and conditions. The 2012 RRD kite line up offers six kite models, 10 different twin tip kiteboards, seven different kite specific surfboards in 24 sizes, and two IKA registered course racing boards. RRD is confident that it has the right product for every level and type of rider out there. North American distributor Evan Mavridoglou answered our questions about RRD’s extensive line for 2012, including their new ultra light weight twin tips, which average about 3.6 lbs. with pads and straps.
At first glance, the 2012 RRD kite collection looks like a refined version of the 2011 line. Is this the case or are there any large changes that we missed?
For 2012, we have six different models of kites that are specifically targeted to perfectly match a rider’s style and riding conditions. Five of the kites are next generation models, continuing their programs from the previous years. These kites have been refined to improve performance while retaining the qualities that riders liked in the 2011 line. For 2012 we also add a brand new C-kite, the Obsession Pro.
Photo Nic Bothma
What are some of the specific improvements over the 2011 line?
Each model brings in improvements and new ideas for 2012. The flagship freestyle and all around kite, the RRD Obsession, gets even smoother. The smaller sizes (5, 6, 7, 9m) are now even more stable, while all the sizes get a little more power and higher jumping. The kiteloops are smooth with steady power while the upwind performance and quick response and flying of the kite remain key characteristics. In the hands of the advanced freestyle riders, the Obsession unhooks, jumps, and loops like no other SLE kite on the market.
The Religion MK II is the kite that every wave kiter has been waiting for. The 2010/11 Religion was a huge success. Designed specifically with side on and onshore conditions in mind, the Religion MK I was the fastest turning kite on the market. The 2012 Religion MK II continues on the path of its predecessor, but adds more low end power across all kite sizes and more stability on the smaller sizes. The Dacron wave-specific frame of the Religion kites creates a solid and uniquely strong structure, making the Religion ready for any unplanned wave wrestles.
The 2011 Vision was introduced in spring of 2011 and will remain unchanged until spring of 2012. The Vision is the 3-strut design from RRD that is taking over the all-around performance kite scene. With a full year of testing and R&D, the 2012 RRD Addiction MK III is the fastest race kite RRD has ever made, ready for the podium at worldwide course racing competitions. The 2012 RRD Addiction MK III, while labeled as a dedicated race kite, is very easy to fly and will make an amazing light wind machine in its bigger sizes.
Please describe the target rider for each of the 2012 models.
Want More? Get the rest plus info on 2012 gear from 18 more brands in the TKB 2012 Buyer’s Guide.
Choose your version of the 2012 Buyer’s Guide below. You can get a .pdf file for you to view on the device of your choice or you can also download the Buyer’s Guide directly to your mobile device through The Kiteboarder App.
