We had an opportunity to test the new JN delta shaped SLE 8m kite and it is in deed a fantastic kite.

First impression when we receive kites is always the bag. Actually in this case it is not a bag, it is a real backpack that looks more like a mountain backpack. It’s very well built, resistant and very comfortable.

Mr Fantastic is the first approach of JN to the delta shape concept. Mr. F is very light due to 5 strut construction and it looks very durable (it has kevlar reinforcements). It has a single point inflation, which of course has its advantages and disadvantages. The bridles have short and simple construction.

Although the kite comes now with the new Switchcraft 2 we have tested the kite with Switchcraft 1.
The Bar is solid and has an excellent feeling and more importantly it’s very comfortable. One bar can fit several kite sizes as you can adjust the length of the bar between 42cms and 56 cms. The quick release is very practical and efficient, but it is a little bulky. One thing that we appreciated particularly was the low bar pressure, you can kite for hours without tiring your arms.

The kite can be flown in simple 4 line or 5 line mod. We only tried it with 4 lines.
Mr F. flies well in most conditions and it suits everyone from beginner to proficient riders.

Beginners will certainly appreciate it’s stability and big wind range due to its shape. The water relaunch as well as the beach relaunch is simple and almost instant. That is especially important for inexperienced kitesurfers though it is always an advantage.

Intermediate riders and those who start to perform some basic tricks will surely be pleased with come of Mr. Fantastic characteristics: depower performance, good hangtime, stability and high jumps. Up there you have plenty of time to figure out the next move and prepare yourself for the landing.

The kite is highly responsive, generates good power, flies fast and turns very well, and together with a good board it has really incredible upwind performance. Basically it’s a kite suitable for most conditions (only in extremely gusty wind you may find it slightly difficult to depower it completely without adjusting the stopper ball) and all skills.

JN team say that Mr. Fantastic is “on kite for all”. The truth is that it’s a great kite, fast, predictable, and stable. Summing up it’s a good kite for almost everybody… except if your program is wakestyle, but for that JN has de Prima Dona.

The kite has outgrown our expectations and we are curious about the improvements JN will make next season.

Mr F. is available in 4,5m, 6m, 8m, 10m and 12m sizes in five different colours.

To know more about JN kites and kiteboards visit www.jn-kites.com