Epic Screamer 2010 Up Close! |
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Thursday, 20 May 2010 |
Kitesurfing ,
by Joel
Theodore
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 Epic released the Screamer some time ago, and flow of them to us in Australia took some time. We finally got our hands on the 2010 Screamer and took a closer look at the kite designed by MoMi. Overall we found the build and finish of the kite to be good, with some minor areas for improvement but overall a good result for Epic's first generation of Screamer.
Epic Screamer KiteThe Epic Screamer in Green, White and Black looks impressive in the sun.
Epic Screamer BagThe bag is HUGE, really on the outside it is up there with some of the largest kite bags on the market. On one side there is a sleeve with a draw string for your bar and lines, on the other is the provision to strap your pump. The compression straps on the front of the bag double to attach your kiteboard to as well. The rear is a backpack style with a waist strap and for your wallet or keys etc there's a pocket in the top.
Epic Screamer KiteOverall the kite spread on the ground looks very high aspect, once you pump it the shape of the kite becomes deceiving, however as you can see the kite is fairly high aspect with a moderate curve throughout the leading edge and cut back up towards the wingtips.
Epic Screamer BridleBridle on the Epic Screamer is minimal, with 4 attachment points on each side and all reinforced. The steering is directly conencted to the rear of the kite with two options. We would like to see Epic use the Ronstan Orbit pulleys on the 2011 kites for a bit of added safety.
Epic Screamer BumperThe bumpers on the Screamer are heavy duty 3D bumpers that offer a good level of protection.
Epic Screamer InflationInflation is through a singple point inflation system and the clips are fastened to the side of each strut to stop them bouncing around. We had no issues with the singple point inflation, it seemed to work well and looks simple and reliable.
Epic Screamer StrutsStruts are relatively narrow on the screamer, and reinforced on the ends. The finish of the strut adjoining to the leading edge could be a bit cleaner however overall it is a good finish.
Epic Screamer StitchingStitching throughout the kite is clean and generally finished well, a bit more in some parts to add longevity to the kite would be good for the 2011 models.
Epic Screamer Warning
Epic Screamer Kite BarThe bar offers everything, a jerk off style push away release, sliding stopper to set the bar at a distance you want and clear power vs depower labelling. We found the bar very comfortable and a really nice setup, clear and easy to operate.
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