August 26th, 2022 Update
Two weeks kiteboarding in Maui provided extensive time to ride the 7m and 9m FX2. The winds ranged from 20 – 25 kts or 30 – 35 kts on most days. These extreme conditions provided the opportunity to test out these kites across a broad range of conditions and styles of riding. One of the best and most noticeable feature of the FX2 is how well it excels at boosting and kite loops. In the 4-line bridle setup, the 2022 Cabrinha FX2 is fantastic for boosting big and sending big kiteloops. The 6-line setup is better for a slower moving kite and for creating slack for unhooked tricks. The bridle options truly change the dynamics of the kite. Here is a video from one afternoon session on the 7m FX2.
April 11th Update
This morning was our first session on the 2022 Cabrinha FX2 in lightwinds. Wind speeds were only 13-14 kts and there were no other kiteboarders on the beach or water. Was going to fly a 15m Contra, but why not test the low end power of the 2022 Cabrinha FX2 13m. There is a 6-line option, but for our initial session we rode the standard 4-line option.
2022 Cabrinha FX2 Initial Thoughts
The 2022 Cabrinha FX2 is a very different kite. Our initial thoughts are that it is smooth, stable, has good lightwind performance, and that it is very different than the previous year FXs. This years FX2 feels a lot less like a “C” kite than previous year models. It is important to note that there is a 6-line option that makes the kite feel more like a C kite. In the 4-line option, the most noticeable difference is how light the bar pressure is. The power delivery compared to previous FX models is different. It is difficult to describe without bias and with accuracy what the exact difference in power delivery is.
Great Lightwind Performance
The first session on the 2022 Cabrinha FX2 13m was in 13/14kts of wind. The typical kite for these conditions, to have fun, would be a 15m Contra. I took the jetski upwind in anticipation that I would not be able to stay upwind. Not only was it possible to stay upwind, but was able to have an enjoyable session. 13/14 kts of wind was perfect for the 13m and a 160 lb rider. The power was almost instant on the first or second power stroke. Once the power was there, it was easy to maintain power throughout the trick.
April 14th update: Took the 13m out in 8-14mph and was able to stay upwind and do tricks. Very impressed with the lightwind performance of this kite!
This session occurred between 7:30 and 9:00am.
Great Unhooked Performance
4-Line Setup
The past few months I have been riding the 12m Cabrinha Switchblade. Compared to the 12m Switchblade, the 13m FX2 has a significant amount more slack. The timing of when the slack occurs is different that the previous years FX and Switchblade. It took a few minutes to dial in to it. I am not sure yet if the FX2 is better or worse than the 2021 FX model. All I know is that the feel and timing is very different.
6-Line Setup
The 6-line setup is a noticeable change for this kite. After riding multiple sizes with both the 4-line and 6-line, it is accurate to say that there are two kites here. The bridle configuration completely changes the way the kite flys. The 6-line has noticeable more bar pressure, turns slower and slacks significantly better than the 4-line. For freestyle and unhooking, we prefer the 6-line. The amount of slack is comparable to a C-kite but without the bar pressure and bad low-end performance of a C-kite.
What Cabrinha Says
Every coin has two sides, there are 2 sides to every story and there are two sides to the new FX2.
With a nod to its heritage, but with a completely updated design we have been able to push the performance of the FX2 further into the big air realm. Fast powerful loops with the ability to catch you on the way down. Height and hang time that this kite has not seen before. We have created a progressive modern flying machine that will take you to all new levels.
Keeping with the original Freestyle Crossover naming, we also have developed a pro level 6 line bridle system that gives the rider the C kite feel they are looking for to help with latest tricks which are needed to get onto the podium.
Features
- Heavy duty closing seam construction
- Nano Ripstop Canopy, the benchmark in durability, stability and responsiveness
- High Tenacity Dacron for enhanced arc stability and improved handling characteristics
- Strategic canopy reinforcements in the high stress areas
- Pure Profile Panels for efficient aerodynamics
- No pulley bridle for a more direct steering input and feedback
- Three leading edge bridle options to customize arc shape and performance
- Explosive pop and slack for freestyle manoeuvres
- Forward pull and quick recovery for kite loops
- Smooth power delivery with excellent depower
- 6-line freestyle setup (sold separately)
