Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Hatch 8
Jekyll v4 12
Max v5 16
Bar System v9 18
Vane 22
Suspect 24
Xenon 26
Surfkite v2 28
Apace 30
Sneek 34
Blunt v2 35
Force 35
Trainerkite 36
Accessories 36
Spare Parts 37
3
INTERVIEW. URS HUNGEBÜHLER
Hello Urs, in 2011 Gaastra launches a new kite: the
Hatch. What is the idea behind it?
UH_ The idea behind the Hatch is all about usability. This
was the highest priority in development progress. This kite
is very easy to use and provides a very predictable flying
characteristic!
So, now there are two “crossover kites” in the range.
What exactly are the differences between the Hatch and
Jekyll?
UH_ The Jekyll is a performance crossover kite. This is the
4th generation and we did continuously developed the
kite during the last 4 years. Performance and a clean flying
behaviour always has been one of the main focuses.
The result now is a very fast and turning kite. The kite
reacts very directly and precise to any action on the bar.
Coupled with a very low bar pressure it needs a little
experience and feeling to get all its performance out of
the Jekyll.
We didn’t want to do any compromises performance wise,
so we additionally created the Hatch.
The Hatch is a kite for usability. The focus during the
R&D was stability, constant power and a very predictable
behaviour in its flying characteristics. The kite still provides
plenty of performance and does not stand behind other
kites in that point. It is designed for riders that don’t want
to care much about the kite. Just rig it and have fun. Urs Hungerbühler
Head Designer Gaastra Kiteboarding
So the decision for a rider to choose between the Hatch
or Jekyll is not really a matter of style, it is more about attitude?
UH_ Well, kind of... The Jekyll is really state of the art in point of performance. On the other hand this
means that you need a bit of experience to get the full fun and benefits. The Jekyll really pushes the
limits!
The Hatch still has enough power to boost you up in the sky, speed out your friends or nail down the
latest tricks, but its main focus is on the usability. You don’t have to concentrate too much on it. This
kite makes riding easy, and this is not about style or level, because everybody will improve a lot faster
with an easy to use kite.
Beside these two SLE kites the Max will stay in the range too. Why?
UH_ This is the 5th generation of the Max and the development always followed the demand of the
freestylers. You name it: Newschool, Wakestyle, Unhooked, Obstacles... The requirements always
changes a bit from season to season, so we adjusted the kite to deliver the best tools to the riders
possible, but for sure these riders want such a typical kite:
• Deep in the window for constant power
• Massive pop & explosive power
• Nice power in kiteloops
• Superb unhooked handling
The Max is made for freestyle only, no compromises, but still has all the benefits of a modern kite, like
De-power, windrange etc. In addition to this freestyle factor some good riders use the Max in waves
too. This kite just turns very fast and follows the steering commands straight without any compromise.
/helpdeskfaq
What is the idea behind the ANMP, RNEH and ANPH profiles?
UH_ Each kite in 2011 has a particular profile, specially made for that kite. Actually we kind of started
with this already some seasons ago. The profiles in the tips need to work in a high range of angle of
attack, they are used to steer the kite. Therefore, we use a modified NACA0018 profile for the tips on
all kites.
For the centre part of the kites we developed a particular profile for each model. This is necessary to
fulfil the request of each type of rider. That’s the way of modern kite design, first describe the desired
behaviour of the kite, then develop the profile, outline and so on.
The new Hatch comes with the RNEH (Radial Nose Easy Handling) profile. It has a radial nose shape and
the maximum draft quite far forward. That makes the wing very stable and predictable, neither back or
front stalls. The advantage of that profile is that it is not sensitive to flying speed. It generates almost its
full performance in lower speed already and stays easy to control in higher speeds.
The Jekyll has the ANMP (Acute Nose Maximum Performance) profile. This profile has quite a special
shape at the “profile nose”. There are 3 different radiuses. It’s all about performance and flying speed.
The wings need some speed to generate its full performance. Due to that fact the kite flies close to the
window edge and has amazing upwind capabilities.
The Max features the ANPH (Acute Nose Power Handling) profile. The Max has a quite similar profile
nose shape as the Jekyll. The difference here is that the Max draft is way further to the back. This way
we get a high performance profile, which still lets the wing stay deep in the window. Due to this such a
wing has always power.
5
Riders: Leif Wilkesmann, Lukasz Ceran, Esther Oud, Leo Rose
Location: Langebaan, South Africa
Date: 25.02.2010 11:07
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Kites: Hatch 13.0, Jekyll 12.0, Jekyll 10.5, Max 12.0
USABILITY CROSS OVER
• Medium Drag
• Straight Steering //
for nice & easy turning
SPECS / MODEL Hatch 3.0 Hatch 5.0 Hatch 7.0 Hatch 9.0 Hatch 11.0 Hatch 13.0
The newest toy in the Gaastra Kiteboarding range. The all accessible HATCH.
Focusing on USABILITY, this kite provides a very easy and steady ride! No
matter if you are a Beginner or more into Freeride, Freestyle, unhooked
tricks, wave riding or race... this is your kite!
Urs Hungerbühler:
“ The keyword on this kite is usability. We built a kite which is very stable, provides constant power and has a very
predictable flying characteristic. Because of this it is big fun to ride the Hatch. It is easy and you improve during
every session...”
Details:
The RNEH (Radial Nose Easy Handling) profile in the center area provides a balanced ratio of power and easy
handling. The profile provides medium drag, which makes the kite predictability and keeping it from stalling. It
generages big lift and huge hangtime! The medium bar pressure gives you direct feedback from the bar, so you
always know exactly where the kite is. Shaping characteristics are made for effortless relaunch capabilities. The
Hatch gives a straight steering behavior and follows your commands without fail. The NACA 0018 profiles in the
tip area allow for clean and fast steering. A very sportive kite that will boost any skill level!
Construction:
• Logic V Bridle System: Provides the most stable line construction on SLE kites. No Pullies, No Movement. Very
solid, predictable and most important no wear and tear!
• The bulletproof construction takes even the hardest impacts. The Full Dacron Frame covers the canopy all
around and gives an excellent strength to weight ratio!
• High quality Speedpump concept makes de- and inflating your kite as effortless and easy as possible while
providing ultimate reliability
• Various steering line attachment points on the kite, so you can tune your kite to taste (on smaller sizes only!)
Conclusion:
If you are looking for the “One Kite that Does It All” solution, this is your kite. It is ready for all styles and delivers
you all the power you could ever ask for while being very easy to control!
9
Rider: Leo Cluse
Location: Platboom, South Africa
Date: 23.03.2010 14:44
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Kite: Jekyll 7.0
Board: Surfkite 5’ 6’’
PERFORMANCE CROSS OVER
• Direct Steering //
for fast & clean turning
• NACA0018 Profile //
• Massive Windrange & Sweetspot //
in tips for clean & fast steering
with perfect flying characteristic
SPECS / MODEL Jekyll 5.0 Jekyll 7.0 Jekyll 8.0 Jekyll 9.0 Jekyll 10.5 Jekyll 12.0 Jekyll 14.0
• Standard: 4 Line Bar System (5th line option. Nose line comes with kite)
• Jekyll is designed for “STANDARD BAR SETUP” (Full Power = All lines same length)
The all new Jekyll 4 takes you to the next level. Based on continuous
development this is the ultimate high performance SLE kite.
Urs Hungerbühler:
“ We have focused on a clean and fast flying kite. Reaction time is greatly improved- This is the perfect tool for all
advanced kiters.”
Details:
The ANMP (Acute Nose Maximum Performance) profile in the center has been specifically developed for the high
performance needs of the Jekyll 4. This profile provides super low drag which results in a faster flying kite allowing
incredible upwind performance, insane lift and massive hang time. The low bar pressure enables effortless riding
and a direct steering characteristic that allows you complete and precise control over the kite.
The NACA 0018 profile in the tip area make this one of the most technically advanced kites on market. The Jekyll
4 is ultimate performance without compromise.
Construction:
• Logic V Bridle System: Provides the most stable line construction on SLE kites. No Pullies, No Movement. Very
solid, predictable and most important no wear and tear!
• The bulletproof construction takes even the hardest impacts. The Full Dacron Frame covers the canopy all
around and gives an excellent strength to weight ratio!
• High quality Speedpump concept makes de- and inflating your kite as effortless and easy as possible while
providing ultimate reliability
• The Jekyll comes with a noseline so you can fly the Jekyll in a 5th line setup (optional)
• Various steering line attachment points on the kite, so you can tune your kite to your needs
Conclusion:
If you can operate this super fast flying kite it will deliver impressive results. It is all you could ever ask for in a high
performance kite. Race, Freestyle, Wave: The Jekyll can do it all and will elevate your limits!
13
Rider: Leo Rose
Location: Lacanau, France
Date: 27.06.2010 9:37
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Kite: Max 10.0
Board: Score 136
FREESTYLE & WAVE
• Low Drag
• Direct Steering //
for fast & clean turning
• Precise Barpressure //
full control in all situations • Speedpump
SPECS / MODEL Max 6.0 Max 8.0 Max 10.0 Max 12.0 Max 16.0
The 5th generation of the Max is totally focused on the freestyler’s demands.
Having a pure C kite feeling with all the advantages of a modern kite, you
can ride it unhooked for powermoves or big megaloops! The Max is the
freestylers dream!
Urs Hungerbühler:
“The Max is fully made for freestyle. A “no compromise” tool. Newschool, Wakestyle, Unhooked moves and
obstacles. We listen very carefully to the riders’ feedback and their demands. This changes from season to season,
and we adjust the Max to this, so they have the perfect tool!”
Details:
The ANPH (Acute Nose Power Handling) profile in the center area provides a high performance profile while
keeping the kite deep in the window delivering the grunt you want! This profile provides a low drag and a fast
flying kite coming with explosive lift and precise bar pressure. The direct steering character allows you to send the
kite wherever you want!
As with all our top of the line kites, the NACA 0018 profiles in the tip area allow for clean and fast steering. The
Max is a state of the art freestyle machine, that will make your competitors cry!
Construction:
• Max comes in a classic 5 line setup. The 5th line is attached in a V construction supporting the leading edge.
• The bulletproof construction takes even the hardest impacts. The Full Dacron Frame covers the canopy all
around and gives an excellent strength to weight ratio!
• High quality Speedpump concept makes de- and inflating your kite as effortless and easy as possible while
providing ultimate reliability
• Various steering line attachment points on the kite, so you can tune your kite to your needs
Conclusion:
If you are looking for the C-Kite feeling combined with state of the art kite characteristics and construction, the
Max is your easy choice. Get radical with the Max!
17
4 or 5 LINE SYSTEM
• 21 + 3m lines //
for two line length options
• O-Shit handles //
to get the rider out of potential trouble
• Auto alignment QR //
so the look is in easy hook in
and out position
/bar/2011/barsystem9
Barsystem v9
4 or 5 LINE SYSTEM
BAR WIDTH ( cm ) 46 - 52 46 - 52
DEPOWER RANGE ( cm) 50 50
ADJUSTER RANGE ( cm) 25 25
LINES ( number ) 4 5
POWER LINE LENTH ( m ) 17 + 3 17 + 3
STEERING LINE LENTH ( m ) 21 + 3 21 + 3
ROOT (500kg) LINE LENTH ( m ) 4 4
SAFETY LINE (yellow) LENTH ( m ) ~4.75 ~4.75
POWER LINE END ( technique ) knot knot
STEERING LINE END ( technique ) loop loop
5TH LINE END ( technique ) - loop
POWER LINES ( color ) blue blue
STEERING LINES ( color ) white / black white / black
The Bar System v9 is a very versatile system. It is a real “all in one” bar.
It can be used for all Gaastra kites and many other brands as well...
Details:
This system provides an easy to adjust bar width either 46 or 52 cm wide. You can modify it easily for 4 or 5 line
setup (and back again). The Pull/Pull webbing adjuster has a huge 25cm range and the system offers a 50cm
depower range.
This Bar System provides the maximun of safety possible. You can fly it in either classic 5th line setup or absolutely
flightless on one powerline (in 4 line setup).
The Bar System v9 comes with 21m flying lines with 3m extensions, so the rider can have two line length options.
It has a clean black & white design, so the rider knows where he is in the wildest situations. The Bar System v9
comes with O-Shit options on both sides of the bar system, to get the rider out of potential trouble. It has a very
easy to use and secure Quick Release system without fancy mechanics. It activates from the center and is easy to
reassemble. This System uses the “Standard Bar Setup” (all lines same length) so this bar can be used for almost
every kite!
Construction:
• Heavy duty glassfiber bar
• Stainless steal parts
• 3D EVA surface for perfect grip
• High quality lines with almost no stretch, to provide a very direkt and precise flying kite
• Steering lines are covered with a sleeve in the bottom to prevent injuries
Conclusion:
The Bar System v9 is a solid bar system, that is safe, functional, clean and can be used with all Gaastra kites and
many more.
19
Rider: Leo Rose
Location: Big Bay, South Africa
Date: 18.03.2010 7:41
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Kite: Max 10.0
Board: Vane 130
FREESTYLE
EQUIPMENT:
• Pro Pads
• Ergo Straps
• G5 Fins
• Handle
* Estimated Weight
Details:
A well balanced flex pattern for maximum performance and comfort at the same time. A wider stance option
meets freestylers demands and the new pad technology has responsive EVA layers for ultimate comfort on top
while a glassfiber base ensures these pads will last forever. It has a newschool shape and outline that comes with
5cm fins making the board go effortless upwind trick after trick, while providing the loose feeling you want in
tricks.
Construction:
• Full wood core
• The latest technology construction available. Light weight and very durable
• Metal inserts that are time tested industry standards
Conclusion:
If you want a board with an aggressive feeling and massive pop combined with full control even in the roughest
chop, the VANE should be in your brain!
23
CROSS OVER
EQUIPMENT:
• Pads
• 3D Straps
• G10 Fins
• Handle
• Dynamic flex //
the best ratio of comfort and performance
* Estimated Weight
This board is for the freeride performance orientated rider. It goes fast, gets
upwind, jumps big and lands easily.
Tim Hendrics:
“Freeriding has to be versatile these days- a freeride board needs to do it all. Effortless upwind cruising, easy
takeoffs and landings on the biggest jumps, and a sportive character in freestyle sessions while behaving in waves
as well. The SUSPECT can do it all!”
Details:
A dynamic flex characteristic gives you maximum comfort and performance. An optimized scoop technology
ensures the perfect balance between sharp turns and smooth carves. The board comes stock with 5cm G10 fins
making the board go upwind effortlessly and keeps you there trick after trick.
The new pad technology ensures comfort and style!
Construction:
• Wood core generating a very responsive feeling
• ABS rails, for more progressive feeling in turns
• Metal inserts that are time tested industry standards
Conclusion:
If you are looking for a board with committed drive and flow, ultimate control and a fun feeling ride... The
SUSPECT is your choice! It is extremely responsive to ride in all types of conditions!
25
FREERIDE
EQUIPMENT:
• Pro Pads
• Ergo Straps
• G5 Fins
• Handle
* Estimated Weight
The Freeride master keeps you upwind without thinking! The all-round twin
tip delivers ease of use for the perfect freeride sessions.
Tim Hendrics:
“We worked a lot on the upwind and early planning abilities of the Xenon, as those are facts every rider benefits
from. We combined this with a soft flex so the Xenon is definitely a very attractive freeride board!”
Details:
A great beginner board that has enough potential to give you joy for years. The Xenon comes with wider stance
options that work in conjunction with the new rocker line to provide excellent upwind performance. The soft flex
pattern combined with the outline and rail shape makes the board fast and comfortable at the same time. For
maximum grip 6cm fins are provided.
Construction:
• ABS sidewalls foiled out to the tips to help with the fin flex control and smooth landings.
• High performance construction: high density core reduced to a minimum to save weight and tune in the flex
while providing the optimum weight and durability combination
• Metal inserts that are time tested industry standards
Conclusion:
If your are looking for an agile twin tip that is ultra comfortable you will feel right at home with the Xenon!
27
Rider: Urs Hungerbühler
Location: J-Bay, South Africa
Date: 11.04.2010 8:18
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Board: Surfkite 5’ 6’’
WAVE
EQUIPMENT:
• 2D Pads
• D Straps
• G5 Fins
5’6’’ This board is optimized for onshore and mushy wave conditions having
a rounder outline for maximum maneuverability. The sharp box rails from the fins
to the tail make it a more powerful board on the cut back side for faster release.
The medium rocker gives maximum performance in gusty conditions and the
squaretail makes the board turn better at lower speeds.
5’10’’ This board is made for big and powerful waves. It carries more speed and a
lot of rail in the water with a straighter outline for better control. The sharp box rails from
the fins to the tail make it a more powerful board on the cut back side for faster release.
The medium rocker gives maximum performance in gusty conditions. A rounded pin tail
keeps the board stuck to the wave for faster more controllable bottom turns.
/boards/2011/surfkite2
* Estimated Weight
The new Surfkite v2 has an easy to understand range - 2 boards for all
conditions. They can be used in crappy onshore mush or big and powerful
shallow reef breaks! They are traditional surfboard shapes created by South
African Harry Brehm and the boards have been proven worldwide!
Harry Brehm:
“The overall feedback from the 5’6’’ and 5’10’’ was very positive, so we kept the main ideas of the boards. We
tested some modifications, but the current shape turned out to work best. This enabled us to fully concentrate on
the other details like the fins and insert positions. After countless hours in all kinds of waves in the world I’m very
happy to know, that the Surfkites v2 range is better than ever.”
Details:
Both boards come with a 3 fin setup optimized for less drag, more drive and better overall performance. The new
stance options enables the rider to move the front straps more forward, helping in turns and increasing the surf
character. An attachment point for a leash is also built in for strapless riding.
Construction:
• Glass construction
• Wood reinforcement below pads
• Additional glassfiber reinforcements in all stressed areas
Conclusion:
The Gaastra Surfkite brings the joy of directional kitesurfing to you. Pure surf board shapes that meet the
requirements for riding waves and whatever else you choose.
31
FREERACE & LIGHTWIND
EQUIPMENT:
• RPE Pads
• Straps
• G10 Fins
LENGTH ( cm ) 169.5
WIDTH MAX ( cm) 49.5
CONCAVE MAX ( mm) 1.5
SCOOP ( mm ) 93
WEIGHT ( kg ) * 3.8
VOLUME ( ltr ) 30.3
FINS 2pcs 185mm (18°)
2pcs 220mm (14°) G10
FIN BOX Mini Tuttle
FIN SCREW M6
STANCE OPTIONS ( inside rear to inside rear in cm ) 41.5
STRAP INSERTS ( number of options ) 3
STRAP INSERTS ( distance between in mm ) 25
* Estimated Weight
The all new Apace is the pinnacle of new school kiteboarding. A very
powerful board that gives super early planing features and goes upwind like
a train!
Harry Brehm:
“This board concept comes from the course race side of kite surfing. The idea was to give our team riders a board
for the competition and cover at the same time the very low wind aspects in kitesurfing. These boards go in less
than 8 knots of wind with an experienced rider. Beside the race and performance character we kept an eye on
the fun factor of this board. It is very easy to ride! People can use this board for crusing on lakes or just simple
freeriding!”
Details:
Multiple insert positions allow each rider to adjust to his perfect stance. It comes with a G 10 4 fin set up. Larger
fins in the back give stability and the smaller front fins allow the board to be ridden in a large wind range. High
top end speed make this board accessible to all types of riders. It has a wide powerful tail section to generate
early planing and compact dimensions to keep your quiver small. A mono- concave in front transitions to a double
barrel out the back release. It gives the best compromise of speed and ease of use for all angles of riding.
Construction:
• Ultra high quality layup- glassfiber construction with wood reinforcements on the deck and bottom in needed
areas: This gives the best strength, weight, stiffness and durability ratio on the market.
• Mini tuttle fin boxes give you the freedom of choice on fin setups
• Soft EVA deck layer, for control and comfort while riding
Conclusion:
If you are looking for incredible upwind angles and ultimate light wind performance the Apace delivers greatness.
An easy board to ride on the lake or compete upwind, everyone is sure to love this new shape!
33
Rider: Lukasz Ceran
Location: Tarifa, Spain
Date: 2.07.2010 8:23
Photo: Tim Hendrics
Kite: Jekyll 12.0
Board: Vane 130
/equipment/2011/harnesses/sneek
• Ergonomic 3D shape //
with high back support
• Knife included //
in case you are in trouble
The Sneek is a 3D shaped harness with panels and seams strategically placed
for maximum lumbar support and comfort with or without a wetsuit!
Details:
Anatomical 3D back support provides ultimate ergonomic character with high back support to keep you
comfortable. Multiple panel layers make for a perfect fitting design. The integrated bar pad system is connected
to both sides of the harness making the bar rock solid and fixed from sliding. It is light and strong with an
integrated handle and leash attachment. The Sneek comes with an Anti Suicide Function to release your
suicide leash in extreme case as well as a emergency knife to keep you safe. The S-bend hook is optimum for
kiteboarding and keeps everything where it is supposed to be.
Construction:
• Huge 3D thermo molded foam pillow on the inside
• 3D thermo molded foam panels on the outside
• 3D back plate, that gives perfect force distribution and anatomic shape to the harness
• 3 separate shaping panels giving pre-curved shape
• Soft neoprene edges all around
• Strong and durable construction:
Heavy duty 2 point webbing and buckle for fixed harness/bar connection
High quality stitching
Intergrated neoprene belt runs through the entire harness; this keeps things tight and flexible
• 3D molded pillow • Emergency knife • Anti Suicide Function • Integrated bar pad
/equipment/2011/harnesses/blunt2
BLUN Tv.2
• Ergonomic 3D shape //
with medium to high back support
• Key Pocket
Colors:
• Green / Black
• White / Black
37
/kites/2011/trainerkite
Trainer kite
FOIL KITE // Training
SPECS / MODEL Trainerkite 1.2 Trainerkite 1.8
WINDRANGE ( knt ) 4 - 22 2 - 20
STRUTS ( pcs) 0 0
BAR WIDTH ( recommended in cm ) 46 46
FLAT AREA ( m 2 ) 1.2 1.8
PROJ. AREA ( m 2 ) 1.0 1.6
• Swifel inside //
for full Anti Twist function
• XL metal hook
Tubes & Bladders Please contact your local dealer or support@gaastrakites.com for direct service
Speed Pump Connector Complete: 2pcs connector, rubber tube, clamp, covers, cable ties
BOARD PARTS
G5 Fin set 6cm 4pcs (with screws and washer) for TwinTips
G5 Fin set 5cm 4pcs (with screws and washer) for TwinTips
Ergo Strap set 2pcs asymmetric straps for TwinTips
Pro Pad set 2pcs for TwinTips
Handle for TwinTips
G5 Surfkite v2 fin set 3pcs; Mini Tuttle System
D Strap set 2pcs for Directionals
G10 Apace fin set 4pcs; Mini Tuttle System
39
GTIL
Room 304, 3/F, King Centre
23 Dundas Street, Mong Kok
Kowloon, Hong Kong
isabella@gaastra.com
Tel : 852-2312-0606
Fax : 852-2312-0700
design@gaastrakites.com
Tel: +49 (0) 2234 933 40-18
Photography: Tim Hendrics // Design: FoxinA