How to Convert Your Cabrinha Unify Bar from Low-V to High-V

Unlock a different feel from the same bar. Here's everything you need to know about the Unify bar's Low-V-to-High-V conversion.

What Is the Unify Bar and Why Does the V-System Matter?

Cabrinha's Unify control bar is built around a modular philosophy: one bar, multiple configurations. The "V" in Low-V and High-V refers to where the front lines split before connecting to the kite's leading edge. That split point changes how your kite responds to input, how depower feels, and ultimately how the kite sits in the window.

• Low-V | The front lines split lower, closer to the bar. This gives a more direct, connected feel, popular with riders who want precise, immediate feedback.
• High-V | The split happens higher up the lines, closer to the kite. This setup creates a softer, more forgiving feel with a slightly different depower characteristic.

Neither is "better"—it comes down to your kite, your riding style, and personal preference. The fact that Cabrinha lets you switch between the two with a simple kit (Stainless O-Ring) is a serious advantage.

What You'll Need

The conversion is straightforward. You don't need a rigging technician or a full gear teardown. Here's what comes in the kit:

• A stainless steel metal ring (for High-V)
• Two spare elastics (bar-end line keepers)
• An Allen key (for the swapping chicken loops)

That's it. No extra lines, no splicing tools, no magic.

How to Convert the Unify Bar | Step-by-Step

Step 1 | Lay Out Your Lines

Start by laying your bar flat and running your lines fully out. You want everything untangled and organized before you start working up the lines. Rushing this step is how you end up with a mess.

Step 2 | Identify the Flagging Line

One of your front lines is the flagging line. This is the line that will depower the kite in a safety situation. Here's how to tell them apart:

• One of the front lines stops just above the bar, at the Low-V.
• The other front line (flagging line) runs all the way through the bar and down to the chicken loop.

Note: the line running through the bar is the one you’ll attach the ring to.

Step 3 | Locate the Connection Point at 6 Meters

Work your way up the flagging line by pinching it between your fingers and sliding up until you feel a knot. This knot sits approximately 6 meters above the Low-V connection point. That's your target.

Step 4 | Loosen the Lark's Head Knot

At the 6-meter mark, you'll find a lark's head knot. Loosen it. It may take a little effort to break free. Once it's loose, pull one side of the line back through so you can work the ring onto it.

Step 5 | Thread the Ring onto the Front Line

With the lark's head undone:

1. Pass the stainless steel ring over the end of the line
2. Pass the line back through the loop you just opened up
3. Pull the line all the way through
4. Pull it tight so the ring is seated securely on the front line

Take your time here and make sure it's snug.

Step 6 | Thread the Fixed Front Line Through the Ring

Now grab the other front line, thread it through the stainless ring, and pull it all the way through. Once you've done this, your High-V is set up. The two front lines now converge at the ring, which sits up at the 6-meter point.

Step 7 | Walk Out and Check Your Lines

Once everything is threaded and seated, walk your lines back out and verify:

• All four lines are straight and even
• No twists or tangles at the V point
• The ring is sitting cleanly on the front line with no bunching

Important Safety Note | Check for Line Abrasion

This is the one ongoing maintenance point Dave from Cabrinha calls out specifically, and it's worth taking seriously.

Because the fixed front line now passes through the stainless ring, there's potential for wear at that contact point over time. Before every session, run your fingers along the line where it passes through the ring and check for:

• Fraying
• Thinning
• Any visible abrasion or damage

If you spot wear, replace that line before riding. It's a five-minute fix that keeps you safe. Don't roll the dice on a compromised front line.

Connect with the MACkite Team

Not sure which bar setup is right for your kite or riding style? Our team rides this stuff and knows it inside and out. Reach out at Kiteboarder@MACkite.com and we'll help you dial in your setup before you hit the water.