Designing a new bar was a challenge:

Since 4-line kites first appeared, all bars have looked more or less the same: a central section with a hole for the de-power line, two tubes and two tips. The inherent problem is that you need to glue those five different components together. The idea of a monobloc bar in one piece came very naturally but how to make it? Using solid tubes would be too heavy, and casting a one-piece bar with hollow tubes and without exits was impossible. The idea of an IPN section combined with an aluminum monobloc bar was born.

The IPN design with an aluminum monobloc increases the structure strength compared to an oval hollow tube and does not need glued parts. At equal weight, the bar is stronger.

For the casing, the end bars are molded with a polymer and the rest of the structure is wrapped with an EVA grip with double density on top for the best comfort. The “holes” in the aluminum structure are not filled in order to save weight.

BAR ACCESSORIES

Safety System:
The general safety system has been kept the same: UPS with Velcro quick release. The big advantage is its sand-proof nature. We regularly improve our safety system to be more and more secure. For 2011, the safety system has a new quick release handle that replaces the red webbing loop. Its shape and single attachment point system enables to pull directly on the top part of the Velcro. As a result, releasing the chicken loop is more efficient, easy and safe.

F-One AIRLITE Bar from F-One Kiteboarding Americas on Vimeo.

Depower System:
The clam cleat allows an easy trim of the front lines. For 2011, we have improved it with a new handle as well. The 5th line does not go behind the clam cleat anymore. This enables the bar to slide more efficiently along the depower line. The clam cleat is now covered with a neoprene case to prevent the 5th line from getting sucked into it.

Includes front and back lines, leader lines, depower system, bar, chicken loop and safety.
- 45cm bar is for kite size under 10m
- 55cm is for kites 11m and up

Does not include leash