 Yes, the upper spreader is too
low but it works. I'll raise it on the inevitable UL version, with a .080
frame and lighter sail. The goal was a very fast and durable
medium-to-high wind kite, and the result makes up for some of my dead-end
projects. Ariel is a composite of other kites, with traits selected for
stability resulting in a low-aspect sail, with long whiskers, making a
deep kite. At launching in light winds, it hesitates slightly due to the heavy
frame but once airborne it's stiff and smooth, with the tensioned
trailing edge leaving a soft white-noise sound. A not-unpleasant bit of oversteer
allows fast pirouettes but tracking is good. Steering input is very sensitive, but there is enough feedback to give you
a feel for the kite. Axles are fast, and leading edge launches are a
breeze. Wind range seems to be in the 5-15mph range. At higher
speeds
it's hard to see! The beer can is for scale reference only. The plan assumes some experience with kite
making and the ability to print the sail plan to size. Nothing in the construction is
special, just basic kite construction. Morten's
version.
This kite isn't named for the Arial
typeface or a Disney cartoon character, but for the British maker of the Square Four motorcycle. A very fast bike with pathetically weak brakes.
I intend to make another sing a .098
rod frame, which would be a better kite for average winds.
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