North Rhino 05 14m Review

Review of the North 2005 Rhino 14-meter Kiteboarding Kite

I had the chance to kite board on my 14 Rhino 05 in light winds (about 12-15 knots) and was extremely impressed. I weigh
about 145 pounds and ride a Hana Crew Matrix 120.

Initially, I was skeptical of the whole 5th element system, however, after my kiteboarding session on the kite, I am convinced
that 5 line kites are the future. The first thing I noticed was the low-end power of the kite (great for pop), which reminded me
of the original North Rhino 02. It also turned on a dime with out the hard bar pressure (NO MORE TENDINITIS!). When I got
on the water and dove the kite it provided smooth power development, like I said before it had great low end but when
sheeted out it de-powered like the North Rhino 04.

Friends of mine were on the water riding a Naish X316 and a 04 Rhino 16, we switched kites later in the day and we all
agreed that the 14 Rhino had as much low end if not more that the other two kites. The leash worked perfectly every time
and the re-launch was a breeze. At the end of the day the wind picked up and I threw a couple down loops, every time the
kite was on it’s way back up by the time I was about to land.

Overall I think this year’s kite is sick. The ECK crew will continue to test and dial in the 2005 kites and keep you posted on
our thoughts. Check back for updates though out the year.