We have tested the 9m Bandit 7 a couple of issues ago, but as kites differ from size to size we wanted to see what the larger sized kite had to offer for those of you in the market for a 12m.
Raphael, Graham and the team have made another excellent kite in the bandit 7, if you like your kites fast, responsive and very capable then the Bandit 7 won't disappoint, perhaps the ultimate do-it-all machine!
I really couldn't find anything wrong with the board. I'm sure there are some things that could be better, but I couldn't find them. The board does everything I'd want a board to do. I'm now excited about riding twin tips again.
It goes upwind very easily with minimal spray to the face in medium chop. It likes to be ridden fast and it locks like a train on rails, allowing you very smooth and sharp turns, without losing power in mid-transition. It is better in light wind than both the 2013 TX and 2013 Trax.
The Madeiro really knows no limits, I find myself riding this board more than any board in my quiver. Sit back on tail and this thing is one of the fastest and most responsive boards I have ever ridden. Full beveled rails make for a thinner rail profile, reduce the drag and give you a better edge into your turns
For a board that is so light I can't believe how strong it is. I can not ask for anything more in a strapless board. I definitely recommend this board to anybody looking for a surfboard to kite on.
Overall the board is extremely light, has a nice dynamic flex, is very responsive and an extremely comfortable board to fit any type of rider. The TRAX8 is perfect for whatever conditions you have to throw its way
I love the maneuverability of the board, and once you catch a wave with it, surfing is pure fun, it reacts very quickly to turning input and is a joy to ride.
The first thing I noticed is that the bag is much easier to handle than last year Volt's. There is a full zipper all around the bag making it very easy to get the kite back after a session. The other thing that stood out for me compared to last year is the bar. It's the closest thing to a Bandit 6 bar, like 95% close
