7 replies to this topic

[lasapcheong]

Hi,

I've a quick question regarding the use of either race rods vs 3 wrap frames in a VTD B-Series sail.

In winds of say 8 - 10mph where you typically use the 3 wrap only in a VTD sail, would it be the same as using race rods instead? Say under the same wind conditions and forgetting about the flex characteristics, if I were to use race rods instead of 3 wraps, do I have to worry that the race rods are more prone to breakage from sudden wind gusts as opposed to having 3 wrap frame? Would I see the same degree of flex if I"m using race rods (even though they are as strong as a 3 wrap)

Am asking because I'm contemplating having race rods in my VTD sail as a default and adding another 3 wrap only when winds get ballistic. Currently I have 3 wraps as a default in the VTD and add an extra 3 wrap to double the leading edges. Trying to squeeze a little more out of the lower wind range of the VTD but also mindful of the tolerance the race rods can handle when a sudden big gust comes along.

Thanks for the advice.

-Darryl

[Watty]

Hi Darryl,

Personally, I would use the Race Rods in a vented sail up until around 10mph. After then, I would switch to 3 wrap just to be on the safe side.

[Love2fly]

Hi Darryl-
I agree with Watty. Keep in mind, if you see the LE bending too much, you'll know that's a good time to switch to a stronger frame. It's a good basic rule for any frame/wind conditions.
Good luck.

[deebs1596]

although ive used RR's in a wind of 20 with a full sail...i would not advise it at ALL...kite was a horseshoe and it was quite scary.
if the rods bend beyond an approx. 45 degree arch im swapping up a frame.

thats my 2 cents worth on personal preference.

[steveb]

I love Race Rods (bought 3 sets so far), but I prefer to use them at the lighter end of the wind range.
They might be able to survive quite a bit more wind, but how many times do you want to take a chance?
If there's enough wind that the Race Rods are deflecting a lot, there is plenty of wind for 3 Wrap ULs or even 4 Wrap Equipped.

[John F]

I have been using RR up to about 15 in the vented. Then I go to 4wrap. It seems to work fine. I am flying next to the mountains and winds are not steady so I like RR because it seems to handle a wide range. I use it up to about 10 to 12 on a non vented. So my kit is really just RR and 4 wrap now.

I also made an indoor REV 2 and use the RR on that indoors. Have used them up 30 on the REV 2 at WSIKF last year.

They sure seem tough for such a light rod set.

[big bri]

RR are the buisness.Get them for your vented.It will improve your feel and range without a doubt
.
I have also tried mixing rods.Race centre shaft and 2, 3, or 4 wrap outer shafts.I have to say i realy like RRCentre and 3 wrap outer in my B Series.When the winds around 10/12mph.

In a Rev One ther also v,very good.Try mixing them ther also as above.again the RR Centre and 3 wrap outer is a nice combo i think.

Dont be afraid to try diffrent stuff with um.

Have fun

BRIAN...It may say MARS on the wrapper,but it doesnt come from ther

[Sailor99]

In lower winds (say 5mph) there is nothing, nothing at all, like a vented or semi vented with a race frame. Sublime.

Throw away your fears of breaking them. I have had them is a vented in way too much wind. They were far from ideal but I couldn't be bothered to change. But the point is that they didn't come close to breaking. Smacking into the ground with a tip many do it as carbon doesn't like shock loading. But breaking them by simple bending isn't easy.