2012 Cabrinha Vector Review
2012 Cabrinha Vector Review
by Tucker Vantol
I have ridden the Cabrinha Vector 12m a couple of times now. When I rode it in Hatteras N.C. the conditions were less than favorable at 13-15 knots and gusty. The water was quite flat so I did have that working for me. I spent about an hour on a Best Spark 140 cruising around and feeling out the combo. My initial impression was that it had a surprising amount of power for the light conditions and seemed to be very stable.
After riding the kite for a while I appreciated its predictability. Even after a short while flying this kite I could rely on the kite to stay put while boosting and transition quickly when carving around. From the first tack the Vector felt natural and effortless even in bad conditions. The Cabrinha IDS safety system provided more than enough depower to handle the gusts without having to constantly adjust the trim strap. The bar pressure felt light and comfortable for long sessions without sacrificing kite a direct feel.
The conditions were more desirable the next time I took out the Cabrinha Vector 12m. At Grand Haven City Beach that morning it was blowing 18-20 knots with 3 foot waves rolling through. While Nathan took out the 11m Cabrinha Drifter with a surfboard, I went for the 12m Vector and a North Jaime 133 Twintip. I grabbed the Jaime because it has a surfy feel and good outline for the waves. At first I felt overpowered but a quick tug on the trim strap fixed the problem.
I really appreciated the Vector's ability to drift down the line when surfing. When you look at the shape of the Vector it has striking similarities to the surf specific Cabrinha Drifter. In my experience the Vector has lighter bar pressure when compared to the Drifter. The Vector seemed to turn quickly and mimic your board with ease. Without much acclimation the Vector felt intuitive and direct for surfing. I couldn't ask for more!
I would definitely recommend the Vector to anyone looking for a reliable and effortless kite that will adapt to a variety of conditions or styles. I would also recommend the Vector to kitesurfers who like the Cabrinha Drifter, but would prefer better upwind ability and lighter bar pressure.
- Reviewer: Tucker Vantol
- Age: 25
- Weight: 175 lbs.
- Skill: Intermediate new rider
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