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North Shore Radical - Top of the Line

Build/Design
This is new established as the Rolls Royce of precision/team kites of which all other kites will always be somehow jealous. It starts with the shape and pattern of the sail which looks great from any distance, well coloured and in proportion. The build is excellent, made with medium heavy wind mind. Only recently, TOTL have started using mouldings instead of vinyl tube, good for those who like that sort of thing.

Bridle adjustment
Radical was the first sport kite to incorporate outhaul bridle adjustment feature in addition the standard long leg adjust as on most kites. True, it does give a very wide range of tunings but: most people seem to find their good spot and leave it there. If it's time to change the bridle, it's probably time to change kite. The range of tuning is clearly marked and explained.

Maneuverability
Interesting. The Radical is a heavy kite needing a firm hand to guide it and generally working you hard all around the window. It has one turn speed - slow - and medium forward speed. Once you find bridle setting it has the crispest of square corners and ultra reliable tracking. Stalls. And spikes and slides are no problem but it is hard work to axle and as for flat spins... Leading edge and rollover stuff could not be easier.

Team potential
Ask me another. Simply put, the single most successful competition (team) sport kite in the world for the last two years, arguably longer. Covers full wind range, four versions available.

Verdict
Like a "classic car" the NSR is not the fastest nor does it have the most up to date features compared to contemporary models. What it gives is feeling of utter reliability and confidence and commanding attention no matter what the situation or company. It is old and somewhat noisy, but it is the choice of champions.