Waveriders North Rebel 2008 Test Report
Out of the bag the North Rebel 2008 looks the part, has notiecable changes to the 07 and graphically looks V Pimp. The Rebel has a standard pump system but with a narrow leading edge takes no time to erect.
Set up is typically North and the 5th Element bar as always works on all. There are two attachement points allowing for a normal "grunty turn" and a faster "from the tip turn" great for Kite looping. There is an elasticated cord attached now as well which basically allows a faster water relaunch without having to use the 5th line and actually works!
In flight the Rebel 08 delivers a huge power range, flies soooooooo far to the front of the window and stays there, stable as you like. Jumps are predicatably large and landings smooth, when on the wave the Rebel is a joy, doesn`t sit back on its trailing edge and allows you to ride a fair way under it before you need to down loop it. The set up between kite and bar is direct so downloops kite loops are relativley easy to achieve.
I like this kite and suggest is for the advancing or heavier bodied rider looking for thrills! Julius 6.12.7
As per the North Web site;
The Rebel is the definitive free-ride kite. Equally at home in the hands of surf junkies or flat water fiends, the Rebel is a kite that simply works in all conditions!
Smooth, predictable power development and reduced sheeting force will give you confidence to push your riding to new levels or simply cruise with comfort and ease. Direct sheeting allows you to instantly turn on the power when you need it for lofty jumps or driving bottom-turns while total de-power lets you instantly sheet out to shut off the power for vertical off-the-tops! Reactive steering and a direct, crispy feel lets you know exactly where the kite is flying so that nothing will hold you back from reaching the riding level of your dreams!
The Rebel is soft and powerful to get you up and going in light winds, yet remains incredibly stable when the wind picks up. Excellent steering even with the kite de-powered makes it easy to keep the kite flying overhead and positioned precisely where you want it as you set up for your next off the lip, so it's no secret why the Rebel is our team's number one choice in the surf. A slight increase in LE sweep together with the addition of relaunch bungies to the back pigtails prevents line snags and makes re-launching the Rebel easier than ever!
The Rebel continues to defy convention as a no-compromise free-ride kite that combines 5th Element simplicity and safety with all round comfort and performance. The Rebel...Breaking all the rules!
Available in sizes 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 and four all new color schemes with stylish skate/snow influenced graphics to entice the senses