​Switchblade Vs The Moto

In 2019 Cabrinha has two kites that both fit into the same category yet take different approaches to meet the same end. The long standing Cabrinha switchblade and the new three strut Moto.

You might be asking, why make two freeride kites and which one is better? With the Switchblades long standing history how doe the new Moto Stack up? This week, we’ll break down everything you need to know and do a back to back review. Let’s Dive into some common attributes between these kites.

Wind Range

Let’s start with the wind range, The Moto has lighter bar pressure and less low-end than the Switchblade. That said, the Moto will Favor the high-end. This is pretty common with comparing a three strut kite to a five strut. The three strut kites usually like to be flown on the higher end of the wind range.

When testing the Moto at the very bottom end of its wind range, the kite was still reactive and fun. The lack or grunt in contrast to the Switchblade was noticeable but welcomed on a foilboard. This actually gives the Moto an advantage in the waves as well. Pound for pound, the Switchblade is going to have more power. In exchange for that power, you get more bar pressure and slower turning speed.

Jumping

The Moto is a freeride kite like the Switchblade. It goes without saying that jumping is very easy with this kite. It certainly doesn’t take timing like the FX.

Compared to the switchblade, it’s not quite as lofty or powerful. On the flip side, the Moto is more maneuverable. I suspect, a lot of riders are going to opt for the Moto because it’s a more playful kite. Especially riders who like to do loop based tricks and transitions.

I’ve mentioned in other videos that many of us at the shop have opted for the Drifter or the FX for that same reason. The Moto is unique in that it’s still a true all around kite. Yet, offers that playful feel many intermediate to advanced riders are looking for.

Of course, it’s still an all around kite so it’s not made specifically for intermediate or advanced riders. This would be a great school kite as well for new kiteboarders. Particularly students who don’t like the moderate bar pressure of the switchblade.The Switchblade is going to jump a little higher, have a touch more loft and more power. The Moto, is going to be more playful, yet smoother than the FX or the Drifter.

Bar pressure and feel.

The Switchblade has a very distinct bar feel. You could call it damp, you could called it shock absorbent, pick your adjective. It’s characterized with moderate bar pressure, high depower, loads of power and grunt. This is exactly what has made the Switchblade so popular over the years. Yet, some people desire something different. The Moto, does have the cabrinha shock absorbent feel but the bar pressure is lighter.

If you’re a new kiteboarder, the switchblade is going to be a bit easier. Yet, if you don’t want a “heavy” feeling kite, the Moto won’t hold you back at all. You’ll simply learn to fly the kite more actively than you would have with the Switchblade. If you’re an advanced rider, you’ll have a lot of fun using a more reactive yet still set it and forget it kite.

Stability

In years past, five strut kites like the Switchblade have always proven to be more stable. In recent years, three strut kites are catching up. Between these two, we’ve yet to test the kite in truly turbulent conditions. If it’s a been a few months since we’ve released this video, click the I icon to read our full review. 

We’ll absolutely be updating the review as we gain deeper insights behind the kite. What we can say for sure is that thus far, all of Cabrinhas recent designs are incredibly stable. Even their freestyle kite the FX flies very comfortably in subpar conditions. Chances are the Moto is very close to stability but likely not as stable as the Switchblade. Time will tell and we’ll be sure to test this further as our season progresses.

Kiteloops

Both of these kites are all around freeride kites and both will work fine in this category. The Switchblade has more grunt you so can expect a powerful Kiteloop. The Moto, is faster and more playful.Thanks to it's fast speed and direct feel. advanced riders who incorporate kiteloops into their tricks will like the Moto.

Surfing and Foilboarding

Now, this is an interesting point. While both of these kites are all around kites, the Moto was designed with Surfers and foilborders in mind. In the waves, the Moto does not have the same grunt as the Switchblade making it more suited for wave riders. It’s not going to drift like a Drifter, and you can’t optimize the bridle for waves in the various wind directions.

Both of these kites are going to work well in the waves but they will lend to a different style of riding. I mentioned in our Switchblade review that it’s a good idea to size down a meter or two if you’re an advanced wave rider.

This is to counter the extra power the Switchblade delivers. This isn’t much of an issue with the Moto. The kite is fast, playful and a great contender for the waves. In regards to foilboarding, the speed and feel of the Moto is great. The lighter canopy will be useful in lighter winds. An experienced rider can work the kite and enjoy a productive foil session.

In summary

The Switchblade and the Moto are versatile all around kites. The Switchblade is going to be more autopilot. While the Moto likes a more active rider but certainly does not need one like the FX does. The Moto has a small advantage in the waves and the speed will be useful while foilboarding. The Switchblade is less reactive but will cater to riders who would rather set their kite and forget it.

Ready to ride?

Learn more about the Moto!

Learn more about the Switchblade!

Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic

Just a dude from a kite shop testing all the gear one session at a time.

Many people dream of quitting their job, traveling the world and pursuing their passions. Rygo is one of those people who pulled the trigger. About eight years into a postal career, he decided to change everything and travel as a freelance videographer & writer. This took him from coast to coast and a variety of countries. Nowadays you can catch him on the phones, doing lessons, or working on videos. Of course, he still makes a point to travel as often as possible. His mission is to help people and share the stoke with his customers and students alike. Get out there and kiteboard.

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Producer of: Ride with Blake I Sessions I Versus I Destinations I Foil Fridays