ZAs we stated, buying a second-hand kitesurf set is not that bad. Not only if you want to get started with your buddy after your kitesurfing lesson. But also if you have been kite surfing for a long time and are looking for a complete second-hand kitesurf set on offer. We have given you tips. First of all, how do you know which kitesurf set suits you. Then a number of considerations before you buy a kitesurf occasion. In this kitesurf blog we will discuss the inspection of a second-hand kite and kitebar.
Don't buy too old second-hand kitesurfing set
The technological development of kite surfing is still in full swing. Every year the material becomes user-friendly, lighter, stronger and safer. As a result, you will probably enjoy kitesurfing with the latest material of the type that suits you better. In addition, the saying 'Old age comes with defects' also applies to kitesurfing equipment. Examples: a valve of which the glue comes off when you pump this kite, a kitebar of which the grip rubber comes off, a strip of a kitesurf bag that no longer works due to salt deposits.
Tips - This is how you learn more about second-hand kitesurfing equipment
- Search for the kitesurfing equipment that you want to buy second-hand via a search engine or on the site of the relevant kitesurfing brand. This way you can see whether this is suitable for you and whether it is not very outdated. For example, look up kitefinder.com.
- Search online for user manuals on the site of the kitesurf brand. These can often still be consulted and you can read more about the specific properties of the relevant kitesurfing equipment.
- Search online for reviews or user experience. These can tell you what the details are and what the experience of other kite surfers is. You can also ask a question on a kitesurf facebook group.
Buying a second-hand kite: what should I pay attention to?
You first look at the general condition of a kite. You can quickly see how the kite has been used. For example, the previous owner often stored it wet, stored it in a damp shed and / or let it flap for a long time in the wind. Then this is a completely different kite than that of an owner who has always stored his kite indoors, has always allowed it to dry and possibly rinsed with fresh water after a crash. You can see this on the kite. Also how it was dealt with. For example, a 3-month-old kite is completely worn out and a 3-year-old kite is still like new.
'For example, a 3-month-old kite is completely worn out and a 3-year-old kite is still like new.'
Overview of inspection points for buying a used kitesurf set
| New kite | ⇔ | Old kite |
|---|---|---|
| Cloth still crackles | ⇔ | Canvas is limp |
| Cloth still shines due to coating | ⇔ | Fabric is dull and with bare spots in the coating |
| Cloth is undamaged | ⇔ | Major repairs and patches have been made |
| Stitching still attached | ⇔ | Loose stitching and open seams |
| Lines on kite not frayed | ⇔ | Line on kite frayed or worn |
| Pulleys on the kite run smoothly | ⇔ | Pulleys are attached to the kite |
Tips - This is how you inspect a second-hand kite
- Inspect the kite thoroughly for the aforementioned points. You will not often encounter a second-hand kite without wear. You simply have wear and tear and will not stop with you.
- Features of an old kite as described above can be the precursor to larger defects that endanger your enjoyment and safety. Think about it carefully and if in doubt, consult with an expert.
- Pump up the kite and let it inflated for a while (15 min.) So that you are sure that this kite is not leaking.
- If you have the opportunity to test the kite, this is always recommended. Even if you can leave the kite on for a while to see that it is properly in the air. Also to make sure that the kite does not pull to one side. This could mean uneven lines but also indicate a problem with the kite. And just to experience whether this is the kite you are looking for.
Buying used kitebar: what should I pay attention to?
If you want to buy a second-hand kitesurf set, a good kite bar is just as important as a good kite. When we talk about a kitebar, this is the bar complete with lines and a well-functioning safety system. The latter is actually the most important and cannot / should not be cut back.
Tips - This is how you inspect a second-hand kitebar
- Buy a kitebar preferably suitable for your kite and from the same year as your kite. Then you know for sure that the kitebar is suitable for the kite.
- Walk out all the lines. Run these through your hands so that you are sure that they are not damaged and that there are no knots in them. Knots weaken kitesurf lines by up to 50% and have to be removed.
- Inspect the ends of the lines where you should tie them to the kite. If these are worn or cracked, they must be replaced.
- Inspect the depower line that runs through your bar. If it is made of rope and is worn out, it must be replaced.
- Inspect and test the safety system several times. Testing on the shore is of course different from under pressure and with tension on the lines on the water. It must work flawlessly on the bank. If necessary, look for information about the safety system online so that you can be sure that there have been no problems with it.
Next steps to buy a kitesurf set
We have explained how to find out which kitesurf set is suitable for you. Then we got you thinking about kitesurfing opportunities. In this kitesurf blog we have explained what you should pay attention to when purchasing if you decide to buy a second-hand kitesurf set. This can be done via one of the kite surfing shops but also, for example, via Marktplaats. All blogs with concrete tips. In the next blog we will discuss the prices with which we close this series and summarize the total again for you.
If you want advice, feel free to ask in a response or to members of the facebook group. As always, tips for improvement are also welcome.
