Dimitri,
thanks very much for the Christmas presents. The T-shirt, cap and stickers look nice. The repair kit should be useful. And..., I am enjoying the DVD: you are truly an epic rider!!

Yesterday, I finally had a chance to kite on the Renegade 11 for the 1st time though the session was just half an hour due to a changing condition. The wind came up from 10 to 30knots in the short period but the kite handled from lulls to gusts sooo well. Very very responsive kite for its size!

happy holidays,
Yux

Taken from FACEBOOK.
Mark Miller.

December 12, 2010 at 5:48pm
Subject: Renegade
I had a local demo today with the Renegade and some other kites. Thought you would like to know that hands down the 11 Renegade was the preference of all kiters. It will definitly help Andy sell some kites. Thanks again. I will keep getting it out there in the Northwest.

Hi Dimitri,

finally in these weeks I tested the renegade 9, good kite, very simple, reliable, good for freeriding.
I tried both configurations. The conditions were 12-18 knots with 1.5 meters waves . Above 15 knots with waves is very easy and fun. Probably under 15 knots and no waves I'll need a more powerful kite (the other model); because under 15 knots the bar otherwise becomes too hard. However, I would say that I am pleased to have tried these kite ... We immediately became good friends!

Yesterday there were about 30 kiters in the water and I have to say that several people came to see the kite and asked me for information (no one here had ever seen!). In the next windy days I hope to take some pictures of a photographer friend of mine I have contacted.
Unfortunately I could not test the hi-end I hope to do soon.
Will be updated soon..... bye bye.

David

Dimitri,
the kite has been delivered here in Japan. It is looking great! I have to be unfortunately traveling and can not use it for the next 2 weeks. Once I ride on that, I will come back to you with my impressions.
Anyway, your service has been superb and i am very impressed with that.
Efharisto!
Yux

Subject: RE: Kite school --- Great news!!!
www.lostboyskitesurfing.com


Hi Helen

Good news all the kites got here in less than 5 days amazing. I had the chance this weekend to get the 11m out of the bag and just fly it on the beach. The wind was about 10knots. Quite simply amazing. I was able to body drag down the beach with no problem and even jump. Unbelievable performance.

I tried to put the kite through its paces for relaunch and all the mistakes the students make on pulling the bar. It is so forgiving and smooth. I am so excited to teach with it next year. I am taking the 9m and 11m with me to Cayman to demo the kite. I am hoping that i will also be able to pick up some orders over there too. My other instructor also tied the kite out for teaching. You will be pleased to know he is already considering selling his own quiver for next year to replace with epics. First impressions hahaha.

One of my very good friends happened to be on the beach who has been a kiter for many years and runs a very big kite and sail repair business. I let him fly the kite and he said he was very impressed. He is coming to the Cayman and i will let him try it out too. He was as i was very impressed with the build quality. He thought it was about time that someone shook up the stranglehold of kites on the beach. Nothing as much fun as causing a little mischief. I think i will before the beginning of the season next year buy a screamer kite only as a demo for kiters on the beach. Not sure which one to go for but im sure you will give me some advice. I watched the youtube video of the testimonials on the 12 amazing.

I must also tell you that the bag is amazing. I have only seen the rrd bag 2009 with the open flap soooooooooooo easy. Love the separate pocket for the bar and bungies for the pump. The open mesh at the bottom of the bag to let it dry. One of the big problems with the liquid force was the bag and not draining!!!!

My last question is regarding boards. I note that the epic board is still in demo stages. Please keep me updated as i would love to get a epic board or whatever you advise.

So a nice chunk of positive feedback for you guys. I look forward to hearing from you

Regards


Paul

November 3, 2010 at 7:17pm
I saw ur new epic kites at the beach the other day..... i am impressed with the quality.....!!!!!

From: larkin tysor
Date: Mon, 1 Nov 2010 10:31:39 -0400
Subject: drift launch

Dimitri
I am purchasing one of your Renegade kites and I am impressed with the customer service on you website. Keep up the personal concern and training vids and I will keep coming back for more kites. I have not found this service at other manufactures. Would you consider doing a vid on drift launching ?? I am in a situation where I have to drift launch because of a bulkheaded waterfront. I am still a beginner..need some visuals...

Thanks
Larkin

Subject: screamer 10 ltd

J'ai fait l'essai de cette voile à Kites-point la semaine dernière et je l'ai adoré. Si tout les vendeurs-riders étaient comme toi la compétition serait chaude , mais ce n'est vraiment pas le cas.Je crois que la meilleure manière de faire connaître son produit est celle que tu utilise de brillante façon. Je tenais à te remercier pour ce bel après-midi et qui d'ailleur se retrouve sur ton testimonial "hatteras demo 2"à la fin, c'est vraiment cool.

Peux-tu me dire combien se détail la Limited car je réfléchi vraiment fort pour la faufiler dans mon équipement car je veux tout remplacer mes F-One pour des 2011.
Merci à l'avance.
Un t-shirt pour la pub ......hihihihi

Dominic Blackburn

From: Steve Parks
Date: Fri, 15 Oct 2010 18:09:01 -0400
Subject: Demo of Screamers Today

Dimitri: It was great meeting you today at Salvo. Thanks again for the chance to demo the kites today. I really appreciate you taking the time to come down special and let us check out the gear. Artem and I had a blast. In particular, the 14m screamer was perfect for me, the stability of that kite was so nice to feel. And the pop let me throw my first big air jump, what a gas. The reviews aren't fluff, it's killer.

Please let me know if there are dealers in Michigan, I'll definitely check it out.

Steve Parks, (Detroit, Michigan)

Epic 2011

Epic 2011!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Best
Subject: 11m Renegade in Igor's Double Overhead Surf

Hey Dimitri,

Just wanted to commend you and MoMi on one hell of an EPIC kite! I was out in 15-20ft waves yesterday here in central FL. Winds were out of the NE 15-20mph. The 20-mile buoy off Cape Canaveral was rockin' at 12ft @ 16 sec...But I don't need to tell you how big it was, you were probably out in it too up there in OBX!

Anyways...

Not once, but TWICE, I got myself too deep, way on the outside in some big, heavy stuff, dropping down the face of a two-story building...I found myself racing towards the kite with way too much speed, not able to get it up enough and ended up luffing the kite and sending it into some of the biggest waves this coast has ever seen. I thought for sure that the kite (and myself, for that matter) were going to be out of commission...toast...

Much to my amazement, the kite's bomb-proof construction held up to some of the harshest abuse I've ever witnessed. Once both the kite and myself were back on shore and I was able to assess the damage, the only thing that failed was the ronstan pulley...the leader line ripped completely thru it! (picture attached)... I had a small L-shape tear on the wing-tip from where a surfer who was trying to corral my kite got the nose of his board on it, oh well....no biggie there...

The other attached picture is of the canopy at the middle strut where, if sand and debris get between the strut and canopy, causes some abrasion...I just added a little extra sail repair tape as a buffer there to help protect that stress point on the canopy...maybe something to note for the future models if you haven't spotted that already.

Hope this feedback serves you well. Both you and MoMi and all involved in Epic's design and construction get an A+ in my book. I love the way the renegade handles--super fast response, perfect bar pressure, stable, predictable, great range...I can't say enough...

-ryan

“Dimitri,
I had to send you this note. I have the 2010 Epic 10m LTD Screamer. I weigh about 190 and was riding in gusty winds from 14 knots to 29 knots. The kite has POWER!!!! I usually rid my 15m Cabrinha and can easily hold up to 22knots and never pull the de-power strap. Yesterday was the first time I have ever used the depower...I still can't believe this kite. And the jumps...holy moly..huge really great kite...I am a convert! The power just blew my mind...wow a 10m on steroids.”

Hi Dimitri,
I was able to get out today with my new 2010 Renegade 11 kite here in NJ~ ( I just purchased about a week ago)....All I have to say is....WOW... what a great kite!
I absolutely love how it flies....I am so very happy i bought it..
I love it so much,,, I'm interested in purchasing a Renegade 9.....( Kite, Bag, bar/lines)...I already have a pump....
I'm hoping you have a few left and can get one

Thanks so much....EPIC kites Rock :)

JAne

“Hi Dimitri, Helen, and Family!
How are you doing?
Just to let you know all is great in Hawaii, I sincerely wish more people would ride Epics, they are the best kites I have ever had. I love my Renegade, but my Screamer 14 is renewing my passion in kiteboarding, what a fantastic kite by far, it's a top dog to me! If I had ALL the money in the world, all my kiteboarding friends would have a quiver of Epics under their Christmas tree from me!”

From a Happy customer.

Hey dude
Today was a good day on my EPIC ltd 10 meter . We have not had any wind for a long time in florida as you probly know.The kite is the best toy ever man.
There is a rumor over the beach that a local kite manufacture is about to copie the shape of your kite for the next year model.Do you know anything about that ?

Aloha
Aldo

Dimitri
I am still in Brazil and have met a guy that wants to buy my kite...
I will only sell it to him if I can get another one from you as i LOVE IT !!
Please let me know what you think?!

I was at a kite competition today and am going again tomorrow to show it off and get people interested
I have let 4 people try it so far and everyone loves it ALOT.
All the best
Nigel

A word from the boss!

Working hard on the Demos.
Nothing new just selling kites and letting people demo them.
Look what people are saying on the KITEFORUM.

Look what people are saying!

makani wrote:
WARNING DO NOT BUY ANY OTHER KITE UNTIL YOU FLY AN EPIC KITE!!!


I have to agree with Makani, if you fly an Epic you will not go back, I have flown many kites and instantly fell in love with the screamer when I had a chance to demo one in Mexico last Christmas. I ended up buying the 10LTD for myself and a 6m Renegade for my girlfriend (and me when it is nuking).

Recently I had an issue with the main bladder of the 6m Renegade slowly leaking, I sent an e-mail to Dimitri and in a week I had a full replacement set of bladders on my doorstep free of charge. You can't beat that customer service! A buddy of mine had an issue with a harness from a company that I won't mention, but he spent months sending e-mails and making phone calls to try and get a warranty replacement, so it was a pleasant surprise to have Epic respond so quickly with no questions asked.

I have become a total convert, take these kites out for a session, you won't be disappointed!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------


Frequent Poster

Joined: Mon Mar 16, 2009 4:35 pm
Posts: 442
Location: Southwestern Ontario
I agree, I recently demo'd the 7m Screamer and the 14m screamer. I (beginner/intermediate kiter) got the impression from the description of the kites that these kites were only for advanced riders but from my experience flying them and riding with them, they are suited for anyone who wants to shoot upwind with extreme ease. They relaunch nicely and were very predictable, I was amazed at the angle i could achieve to get upwind which enabled me to relax and try new things, even in the great lakes waves these kites perform well! On Sunday i was underpowered on my 8.5m ion 3 but i was well powered on the 7m screamer...
If you get the chance, demo these kites, and what I'm told from Terry, all you need to do is ask, if he's on the beach....don't be shy, try the kites!

Sincerely
Pete

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Medium Poster
Joined: Sun May 18, 2008 5:34 pm
Posts: 190
Have to agree with Pennohawk. I was stoked the first session on the Renegade(already left a review). I was equally impressed with the customer service....

1. Dimitri did not have one of my color choices, not a big deal. However, he made several phone calls until he found it. All my kites were at my door step within a week.
2. There was a small stain on one of the white panels, not a big deal. However, Dimitri replaced the kite with no questioned asked. I did not expect that.
3. Had quite a few questions about the kites while I was deciding to purchase. Dimitri always got back to me within the day.

Word of mouth is the best form of advertisement, plus it's free. Who really pays attention to or believes all those adverts floating around your screen or mag. It's just pimping unless it's coming from a satisfied customer with no affiliation(like me). From all these posts and videos(on Epic site) of satisfied people, Dimitri gets it.

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Medium Poster
Joined: Wed Apr 29, 2009 5:56 pm
Posts: 101
Location: ontario
He totally gets it, and that's why this will be a big success. He's been working hard at this... look at the demo schedule this year! He's been all over the place. But he's been all over to hear what riders think. Epic will make kites that people want, and follow it up with great service as well. He's always gotten back to me with any question within a day and I've put others in touch with him to ask questions.

Very much looking forward to see how things progress in the months and years to come!

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Frequent Poster

Joined: Mon Feb 12, 2007 7:42 pm
Posts: 325
Location: Cyprus.
After my first 2 days in Paros having 15kn yesterday and 20+ today people are going crazy on the Epic kites. The performance and construction of the 2011 Epic kites are improved and the new graphics are amazing. I flew back to back the 2010 and 2011 kites and I can say that if you liked the 2010 you will love the 2011 models. Year after year these kites are moving to perfection!!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joined: Wed Jan 11, 2006 6:27 pm
Posts: 497
Location: HELLAS www.adrenalini.eu

These kites just rock !

Tried the 9 -12-14 Screamers of 2011 and i can say that these kites really work and react how a good kite should do. All these years i am a Cabrinha fun but now i feel that there is something new and fresh for me out there. For sure i would say that people should try them and then they will understand that these EPIC kites are exactly that most of us are looking for...

Not to mention the new 2011 - 11 renegade that i tried !!!! I just loved this kite. Fast -perfect bar feedback -fast turning and reaction, just perfect !!!

Aris Evdos - ''Ellinas''

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Rare Poster
Joined: Tue May 01, 2007 1:11 pm
Posts: 17
We had a great time down in Paros.I went with my old kites and i didn't use them a friend of mine said to me that he is been in a demo o a different brand but there is no comparing with the demo that EPIC organized..anybody could just grab a kite and go out and not only have a little ride but getting able to feel the kite and say his opinion.He is a rookie but rapidly understood the difference from his kite(like a girl that i taught kite before 3 years)...she came after 2 hours of riding with the 7 SCREAMER and said to me that this is her next kite and it feels much better than the kite she is rididing for 2 years now.Thanks Dimitri for been there giving us your kites no only for test(i gave a hard beating to that 9 RENEGADE ) but for real sessions of kitting!I have to mention that if that 14 SCREAMER wasn't there we wouldn't have fun that light wind days when everybody stood from outside!!!

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Rare Poster
Joined: Sun Aug 22, 2010 3:51 pm
Posts: 1
Was also lucky to try the epic kites down at Pounda - Paros..
to be more specific, I tried the Screamer 10 and 14 and Renegade 9 and 11..

I must say I liked the feeling of the Screamer, the 14m was more responsive than my own (which is a 10m2 ) very friendly kite as well.

However I fell in love with the Renegade.. Sooo light, so stable and smooth.. Strong yet forgiving..
I am a rookie, yet this kite gave me confidence within the first 10 minutes I was flying it. Made me try stuff I've never tried before and I didn't want to come out of the water.. nor did It ever get me tired.. Renegade, I love you !!

Dimitri thanks for giving us this opportunity!

Planning on getting a Screamer 7 and a Renegade 11 myself this year!

kk thanks!

Name: pebbles
Post subject: Re: New Brand: Epic Kites
Posted: 29 Jul 2010 23:46
Joined: 19 Dec 2005 13:21
Posts: 236
Location: Brunswick, GA
I think the 10ltd is my new favorite kite of all time! I could almost use it as a 1 kite quiver if the wind here wasn't so lite. Once you get moving it really powers up.
Had a issue with a leaky strut, contacted Dimitri with the intent of buying a new one,but he went out of his way to get me a new one free of charge! I wish every business/person was as professional.
Thanks D!

So I got a chance to ride some Epic kites while I was on vacation in OBX for 10 days. I was riding in Waves at KHK when Dimitri showed up. I myself have been riding for 11 years. Riding style is mostly freestyle with a little wake style and wave riding.

The first day I was riding, the wind was @ 20 mph.. I got to try the Screamer 10m. I am not sure if it was a 2010 or 2011. Overall the kite looked good but honestly I didn't like it much. Just not my thing. I spent about 1/2 hour to 45 minutes on it and everything was off. Everyone has a preference on gear and this wasn't it.

The next day I met Dimitri to try out the 9m Renegade. (once again, not sure on the year) The wind was @ 25-35 mph.. While blowing up the kite I definitely notice how beefed up the stitching was. Very nice! Looked like it could take some abuse. Once inflated, it was a rock solid (stiff) for a 3 strut kite. The bar was nice too but I'm not one to take a lot of notice on bars unless it sucked. It didn't. The below the bar spinner worked nice although you have to spin it by hand and the release looked simple although I really didn't test it. Dimitri showed me how it worked before I went out. In the air it was completely different from the Screamer. It was very direct and fun with great power thru the turns. Bar pressure was medium and I felt at home on it almost immediately. It jumped really well and had great float. I was also impressed with it's mega loops. I love big loops in high wind and this kite caught me every time at 20-35 ft. high. It was really a super fun kite.

In the afternoon I went for an ocean sesh with Dimitri down in Hatteras. I'm not sure of how much wind there was but I was well powered on a 6m Renegade on my SS Verve 2 strapless. Some of the waves were over head but most were waist to head high. Fast kite but not too fast. We stayed in one spot for about a 1/2 hour and then did a down winder. Super fun sesh!

Now to set the record straight. I ride SS RPMs size 14m, 10m, 8m and 4.5m and absolutely love them. There are still some kites coming out that I want to try out but the Renegade goes toward the top of my list for some new kites to buy for this year. For anyone that thinks I am just pimping, I don't own any Epic kites, the shop I work with doesn't sell Epic kites, (yet) and anyone that knows me will tell you, I hate Eclipse kites. Always have. I have also been on my RPMs for a couple years and am not even thinking of getting rid of them. But I will probably be buying an 11m and 6m Renegade to fill the gaps.

Once again to each their own but this was an awesome kite and I had a lot of fun riding it with Dimitri.

Noel
Otherside Boardsports
Islamorada, Florida Keys
www.othersideboardsports.com

Hi Dimitri,
My name is Bob Karetsky and you got me hooked on an Epic Screamer LTD at Jockey's Ridge at the end of May. Literally.
I was flying a green Naish Helix 12 and when I got to the beach you hooked me in to your Epic Screamer 10. I took a few tacks and really liked it.
That Helix was the first new kite I ever bought and I really really liked it until I flew that Screamer!
You told me to pop you an e-mail if I was thinking about getting one. I'm thinking, how can I get one?

Aki thinks there is something wrong

From: Aki
Posted on FaceBook.

"Dimitri...there is something wrong with you and the way you design your kites! Your 12M is NOT a 12M and your 9M is NOT a 9M. I was depowered about a foot (plus) and I was still HAULING on the 9M Saturday and Sunday. I love IT! But, to be on the safe side...I think a 7M needs to be part of my quiver. LOVE YOUR KITES!!!"

Email sent to Dimitri


“Whats going on Dimitri?

I just need to start by saying I have the be the luckiest guy to Have
Oliphant Ontario just up the road from me and also one of the few
dealers for Epic Kites in CANADA!!!!

I haven't taken my first lesson yet - but I am a pretty decent
wakeboarder so I have no doubts I will be able to excel at
kiteboarding. I have been doing ALOT of research and again I seriously
cannot wait until July 10th for my first lesson and purchase of an
Epic Kite. I dont know anyone who currently flys a Epic other then a
few people up here so Its almost like I will have my hands on
something that no one else does! I'm going to stay around here for the
summer to get really good then head down to Toronto and promote the
hell out of your brand, even the colors and designs are fresh man.

I have been watching alot of your online stuff and great job man,
seriously. I have alot of great photographer friends and videographers
and I will be sure to send you links showing how bad ass I look with
one of your kites!

just your entire companies branding and how you have went about
showcasing your kites is going to be the reason I go with you guys. I
am basically sold before I even try but I rather buy something from a
man who has lived the sport and knows exactly what he would want in
his own kite.

I know you are busy man, but I thought I would totally tell you I
probably wouldn't have gotten into kite boarding if I didn't come
across you guys and randomly stumble upon the dealer about an hour away!

Take care dude,

Ben Clouthier

Kincardine, Canada”

From: Rick Berlin
Place: Florida. Ponpano Beach


Hello Dimitri,
Just wanted to let you know that I tried a screamer 12 and tried the rpm 14 from slingshot and the screamer 12 blew the rpm 14
away. But then I saw a good deal on the epic 14, so i had to get it.
Love the kites.

Taken from the KITEFORUM.

First impressions of the 6m Renegade(20m lines): I got a lot of water time on the 6m Renegade last week. The conditions where I was riding start of in the low 20's and builds to the high 20's/ low 30's within a few hours, side to side-off wind. And, does get quite gusty at times.

Weight: 195 lbs
Board: 6' 2" Firewire stock surfboard(Flexfire)
Experience: 3rd year kiting.

Before I rigged the 6m, I was a little hesitant because most guys my size were on 8m and 9m kites(everyone was on surfboards/directionals) and this is a place where you do not want to end up down wind due to a cliffy shoreline with limited launch area. I could have rigged the 9m to be sure, however, I did not want to have to come in and rig down when the wind picked up. Also, I like to freesurf the wave as much as possible and rather not be over-powered when riding down-the line.

As soon as the kite went in the air I was impressed due to the incredible stability. The launch area boarders a small cliff, so the wind is light before the kite gets above the cliff, making it a little sketchy to launch sometimes when it's gusting. As soon as I started riding I was lovin this thing. The lowend on this 6m is amazing. In regards to high end, I don't know since I was never over-powered during all my sessions. I also really liked the lighter bar pressure and shorter throw to depower. That coupled with it's stability, made this kite such a pleasure to fly in these conditions.
In regards to the performance on the waves: I was a little bummed that we did not get the swell we were expecting so the waves were only head high at best. However, I was blown away how this kite flys when riding waves. It's the kind of kite that you do not have to pay attention when your on the wave. Which means you can put all your focus on the wave itself. This is the closest I've felt to actual free-surfing since I've been kiting on waves. I am so happy with this kite. For me, it has everything I want in a wave kite: great lowend, stability, power/depower on demand in a short stroke, gust eater, no heavy bar pressure, and fast turning. If you are into waves, you should definetly give this kite a try.

Lastly, I have been equally impressed with the customer service I've gotten from Epic. Many kite companies miss the mark in this catorgory which is really a shame for them. Thanks Dimitri for putting out such a solid kite for waves.

From: Nat Testing: SCREAMER 12 / RENEGADE 9

“Dimitri
Thank you very much for allowing me and Kai to demo your Epic kites at Frisco today.
I am very impressed by the performance and the quality.
I will definitely be buying one at the end of the summer.

Thanks again.

I will check out the videos on your web site this evening.

NAT”

rom: Steven Bowcutt (father for Katie Bowcutt 13 years old kiter)
Place: DR competing in the PKRA.

Hello Dimitri,
I have never seen a child so driven. She told me immediately after the third heat and her elimination that there was a not a single trick with practice that she could not perform in time and better than the worlds best women. You may have a real future contender on your hands, only time will tell.
The next event is The Butterfly effect in July. There is talk of a World Junior Kiteboarding event on Kite beach in late August. Do you know anything about this, as we could not find out anymore than that.
Your kites got a lot of attention at the PKRA event. We had no idea you are so well known. Laurel Eastman mentioned the new brand several times and wished you the best. Several of the judges even came over to look at the kites, some of the competitors and spectators took a look at the kites. It even got so that we had to move the kites to the outside of the staging area so they could be seen. I heard from one of the announcer's that this was not the Dimitri show it was PKRA. This drew a huge laugh from all. We also received a copy of KITEWORLD magazine where you have a full page or two and the "These are the things I know", Wow!
Kate is so happy to be on your kites. Thanks !
In the end Kate made it through 3 heats, what an experience and even a life changer. She road both the 6 Renegade and the 9 Screamer.

Regards,

Steven K. Bowcutt

Dimitri,
I saw the EPIC screamer 12 yesterday at one of the places that I kite. I had limited funds and bough an old used GK Sonic 11.
There were about 25 kites in the air: Waroos, Naish Helix, OR Rise, North, Waiman Rabbits, Slings, Cabrinha switchbalades and crossbows - etc etc
But.. your kite was kicking ass (screamer 12). It was clearly the best performing, fastest, highest boosting, great handling kite there. This was due to your kite, not the rider. I have to get one. I will sell everything i have and give you my first born to get one.
Eventually, I would like to get 3, but will try to get one soon. Awesome!

Ed

From the kite forum

Name: Bryden
Post taken from: KITEFORUM.COM

OK, time to weigh in. I've been watching this thread for a while now and just last week decided to take the plunge and pick up a 12m Screamer. I was considering the Havoc and Rise as well in an attempt to nail that elusive one kite quiver, but Dimitri won me over.
First of all, I have no affiliation with Epic and have always ridden Liquid Force and have been 100% satisfied with my old Havocs. I sent Dimitri a message regarding the kites and was impressed enough to try one without a demo as there's no one local on these kites.
I've had a chance to ride it in 14-18 knots with sloppy, choppy wave action.
As far as construction, it's a solid, solid kite. I was even tempted to think it would be heavy feeling with all of the reinforcements and stitching. I like the clean, simple bridle the one pump works as advertised with clips to isolate the bladders should something go wrong.
The kite comes with line extensions and I haven't had a chance to fly it without them yet.
Once in the air it just pulls. It almost wanted to fly over my head a bit, but I knew this was a kite that flew forward in the window. Not a problem unless you're a beginner. I have to try shortening the front lines as they came set on the longest setting from the factory. Might change the position in the window a bit.
Once the kite starts moving it pulls like a V8. Maybe not the fastest or smoothest kite, but pulls more pull than my old 14m or 16m C kite. It rips through the power zone picking up steam and starts to 'breathe' once you pick up some board speed.
Jumps took a bit of dialing in as it's different from the 'send and pull' that I'm used to. More edging required. The height was good, but it was the float that stood out. Lots of hang time. Enough to throw your timing off on rotations.
I'm so stoked on the low end of this kite and the way it flies. Just what I wanted. I'm a bit nervous about the high end though. Not sure how I'll hold down 25 knots on this kite.
There are probably some skeptics reading this thinking that I'm on payroll or something like that, but I simply took the plunge and am 100% happy that I did. I haven't been this excited to get out in a long, long time. If we can get some more wind I'll write more... first impressions only...

From: Ed

Hello Dimitri,
I saw the EPIC screamer 12 yesterday at one of the places that I kite. I had limited funds and bough an old used GK Sonic 11.
There were about 25 kites in the air: Waroos, Naish Helix, OR Rise, North, Waiman Rabbits, Slings, Cabrinha switchbalades and crossbows - etc etc
But.. your kite was kicking ass (screamer 12). It was clearly the best performing, fastest, highest boosting, great handling kite there. This was due to your kite, not the rider. I have to get one. I will sell everything i have and give you my first born to get one.
Eventually, I would like to get 3, but will try to get one soon. Awesome!

Ed

Dale,
Can you post this on the BLOG.

FROM: Andy Miller
PLACE: CA (USA)

Just wanted to write a quick note regarding the customer service of Epic Kites. This past Sunday I had a mishap with the safety release system breaking on me. Long story about this, which I will touch upon later when I write a formal review of my Screamer 14m and 10m LTD. Bottom line, love the kite, small issues with bar/lines, but I'll get back to that later. In any event, I had emailed Dimitri a few hours after my incident explaining what had happened and asked for suggestions on either how to fix or what to do. Not only did Dimitri respond to my email within an hour of my email (with an apologetic tone), but he shipped me out a replacement part first thing on Monday morning. I am really happy to see Dimitri (& Epic) delivering on their promise of providing excellent customer service. As most people know, a lot of brands are not that responsive much less helpful. Dimitri clearly wants to get his customers back out on the water ASAP and I think this speaks volumes about the company's core values. I also appreciate Dimitri's integrity in urging me to write a review, stating my honest opinion, and not pimping anything. In sum, while I've only been kiting just over a year, and have only had to deal with a few other kite companies on rare occasions, I'm thoroughly impressed with the great customer service of Epic. Formal review of the screamer to come...

Dale,

Just wanted to tell you that I F$#@#&* LOVE THE 10 LE. What an amazing kite! I’ve never had so much fun and it was a funny feeling to be on the same size kite as guys that are 175lbs :) Also I’ve never jumped higher than yesterday (even on the 14). I’m super stoked and I’m discovering the sport again as it is soooo much different on smaller kites.

Thanks for all your help with getting me on these amazing kites:)
-matt

From: OX
Location: FL (USA)


14 Screamer Review

10-18 knts max 177lbs (83kg). 144 w/ bindings. Kiting for almost 10 years.

The past 2 yrs a 12 was my biggest kite. If it wasn't windy enough for it I didn't want to go out. The downside I suppose was it had to 15+ for me to go out on bindings and stay up wind after throwing tricks. Yeah, I could roll around on the surfboard in the Florida surf, but for flat water with power I needed 15 or more.

This year I decided to go back to a 14 as my light wind kite and I'm so glad I did. Right out of the bag the black, red and white colors look top notch- still not as cool as the all black 10, but a solid looking kite none the less.
The one pump connections -have a cool 90 degree bend nozzle so the connecting tube doesn't have to bend and kink to get to the strut.
I really like the small bridle.- Unless your kite was under inflated and a wing tip forced itself through somehow, I don't think the tips could flip inside the bridle at all since they're so small.
It reminds me so much of a C kite with the flight characteristics - I sometimes think about putting a fifth line on it just to see how it would do with one. It doesn't need it, but sometimes I really blow up catching a heel edge or something and taking the extra few seconds to gather myself before dealing with the kite is nice.
Relaunch - Every time I put it in the water it was on it's edge ready for me to launch. I've had to relaunch it when it's facing down quite a few times to, but it's so easy, just pull in two or so feet of one steering line it reverses itself into the launch position. But what's even better is that you can roll it on its back like the old days of relaunching and it won't flip and tumble down the way. I've ridden so many kites (especially bows) that once you flip it on its back it keeps wanting to tumble or you cant get the wingtip to grab air and it just keeps sliding around on the water. Anyway the Screamer sits on its back no problem - another reason that I think it could ride with a 5th line if I wanted.

The kite is so solid in the air. It turns nice, clean, and steady. Nothing is flapping about in the air like other kites I've had in the past.

Our bay waters will start to chop up and white cap right around 13knts. What was so fun was the fact that I was riding powered in side-on wind with the water at minimal chop. If I waited to ride another day on my 12 I would have been in chop city - or if I rode it that day I would have been going down wind and walking the walk of shame just to do a few tricks.
On the 14 Screamer I was popping two or three small tricks per tack followed by a bigger trick at the end of the tack - all the while staying upwind no problem. All my friends were doing the same tricks wise, but couldn't stay upwind and would have to do two or three tacks with no tricks just to get to our starting point.

All and all I'm super stoked to have a 14 back in my quiver. The 14 Screamer is ridiculously fun!

From: Cape Cod Kite Chick
Location: Cape Code. MA (USA)

NICE! Love the video made by Dimitri on page 59, and great pics Lane on page 58! I was actually in OBX that day Lane went out, but didn't have the cajones to join him in the side off wind and waves. well, that's changed now that I stopped flying girlie kites and got myself a pair.....of Epic Renegades that is.

I got to try them on some downwinders in the ocean in Hatteras and had some of my best sessions yet- the kite was so smooth for riding waves, it would power up when I needed it, and once I'd found a nice wave I'd just push the bar out, forget about the kite and ride the wave in, then just sheet it back in to power myself back out again to look for another ride. And even if I got pushed too far under the kite it'd just settle back in the window and hang there like it was just waiting for me. I mostly ride strapless, so it's sooo nice to have a kite that's so silky smooth and doesn't jerk me off the board when it powers up, but when I did ride it strapped in bigger waves I was amazed at how much pop it had for a kite with so much depower when I would send it a little to pop me over any breakers. I got the 9m thinking it would be the mainstay of my quiver, but in fact I've mostly been on my 6m which I can use in 17-30 mph (I'm only 5'3" 110 lbs). It's SO much fun being able to get out most days on a little kite! So don't let it's size fool you, especially when I loop it I realize how much power it has for such a little kite. Imagine for you guys being on a 9m almost all the time, how much fun that would be for you!!!!

Now back home and equipped with a brand new pair I decided to I had to get out in the nice surf we had here yesterday and brave the side-off wind. I knew from my experiences that the Renegade would be a reliable flyer in flukey, offshore wind. Well I ended up having much more confidence in the kite than in my own abilities when we got there and realized the wind was actually dead off-shore at the break. Still the waves looked clean and nice, so we had to go. Now I'm a believer and the guys here are gonna have to deal with me pestering them to go out in off-shore winds whenever the surf's right! And that confidence comes from knowing I have the right kite for the conditions. Not only does it behave beautifully in the air, but it relaunches easily b/c it only has 3 struts, which is key to getting it up and out of the waves quickly. One thing to be aware of if you've tried the Renegade and didn't like it: right out of the bag I found both of them flew way oversheeted on my bar. I don't know if it's b/c I'm using my old bar with them and the center lines are just stretched out, or if the kite is much more of a front line flyer than my old kite. But the problem was easily resolved with some center line shortening and adding some pigtails to the rear attachment points.

While I didn't try the Screamer, it's worth mentioning that our friends from Boston did and one of the most skilled riders in the group who is sponsored by Naish said he loved it and it was "the biggest boosting kite" he'd ever been on.

FROM: Chad Cooper

"Dimitri,
Thanks for the Masskiting demo you did for us a couple of weeks ago. Very cool to see someone with your skills throw down for us. I can say with absolute certainty, my next kite will be an Epic. Loved flying the Screamer, jumps to the moon. Great meeting you and good luck!
Chad.".

From: Costas
Place: Cyprus

Hello Dimitri,
Just wanted to let you know about my amazing session today. I went to the beach and it was blowing 20-23kn. There was no one there apart from a teacher and his student. I pumped up the 10m SCREAMER LTD and went into the water. I was boosting 40feet every jump and hanging up there literally for ever !!!! I was so excited !! This kite definitely boosts to the moon man!!
Later, the other local instructor came down, a very experienced rider, Flexifoil addict. After seeing me jumping he came to me and asked me for a go on the 10m LTD and he just wouldn't give it back. He pulled some huge jumps as well and he was doing his tricks like he was flying the kite for ages. He came back with the best comments he just loved it from the very first minute.
Anyways, thats all for today. Everyone who tries it is very impressed and i'm so stoked about the 10m I just can't stop thinking about those jumps. MOMI IS THE MAN !!!

Costas

From: Pedro
Place: Portugal

hi everyone.

I've been reading about the epic kites for about 2months.
I was quite curious in the beggining with so many positive
posts about them. So i decided i should talk to Dimitri.
after a few emails here and there, i made up my mind
and ordered a renegade 9m. I'm a pure freestyle rider.
The more wakeboard moves, the better. Dimitri advised
me to go for the Renegade, because if i wanted to go for
an all around kite that would fit my needs, the Renegade
would be it. Honestly, my first thought was "ok, nice...
but then when i want to boost some big airs, i'll be
stuck on the ground and sometimes i feel like doing them
for a change". This was my first mistake... clearly!

The wind wasn't strong enough when the kite arrived
but today it finally picked up and it is here to stay.
so i decided to write my REVIEW on it.

The one thing i could not understand when i came daily to
this post, was - everybody is so stoked with the Screamer,
but why the hell can't i find a good review on the renegade?
there's a few nice opinions here and there, but NOTHING on
freestyle about it. this is the main reason why i'm posting.

ok, now the real deal. the review.

Renegade 9m

My weight - 67kgs
Wind - 18/21knots, a bit gusty at times.
board - Balance 133*40
sea with 1m waves and some chop

I won't say a lot about the bar for obvious reasons... it's the same
as the screamer and people have talked enough about it so i'll leave
it at that. The one thing i have to say about it is that being a short
guy, i had no problems reaching for the depower like i've heard some
people say in here. my old 9m (Waroo), i had to struggle and bent forward
to reach it. in this one, i can reach it without a problem.

quality of the kite and overall construction details have been spoken
a lot already so no need to keep repeating it.

first impression - oh shit, the bar is feeling heavy i don't like this...
i'll be dead in 15mins... why? well, simple... both my older kites (waroo
and Switchblade) have very light feeling on the bar and i'm used to it.
Is the bar to heavy? no, not really... just not what i had imagined. it
is lighter then the LF Hi-Fi and i like the hi-fi feeling for Freestyle.
so basicly 5mins after thinking it was to heavy, i had completely forgotten it.

First time i jumped, i went like 15-18ft. the next ones where probably even
higher. Bare in mind that this wasn't the mega windy conditions
for huge jumps!
this made me smile... people have been saying so much about the
insane hang-time on the screamer, which i haven't tried,
but this kite jumps good! I was jumping higher then my
previous 9m... so don't let yourself be mistaken. This kite CAN jump high!

After a few jumps i went onto the freestyle. And here's why the kite is
good. it has the right feeling unhooked and it isn't SUPER fast. Some people
might not like this, i however, love it! I can feel where the kite is
and i have time to react. another huge plus, and this is what i was most
impressed with - it is the most stable kite i have EVER tried! is it the
fastest? no. Is it the most powerfull? no. but it sure is damn stable.
The power given to you is the same throughout the entire move, and you
never lose the feeling of where the kite is. do i want anything else for
freestyle? no! this is what makes me evolve as a rider. What makes me
have fun in the water! the predictability of the kite helps you in everyway for freestyle.

Kitelooping - it isn't the biggest kick i've felt, but it's a nice stable
one. And with the 9m, it just loops exactly what you want for a nice landing
while you can keep on riding. didn't feel any flaws midway through like with
some other kites.

Overall, i am as happy as i can be for the kite i got. I wanted a kite
for freestyle and that i what i got. How does it feel in the waves?
sorry, i'm not the right person for that review, i simply don't care.
By the way, the below the bar swivel worked perfectly everytime. quite nice!

Positive -
unhook performance
stability
feeling
details of construction
hang-time - maybe the screamer is better, but for a freestyle fan, this is
damn good enough and it is jumping more then my previous kite, so yes, it is positive for me.

Negative -
speed of the kite. it isn't super fast to fly around.
depower doesn't feel like it goes all the way to 100%

what i did not test yet :

kite in the waves
upwind ability - didn't force it very much so no idea.
safety system - just opened it without connection to the kite to know how it works
water relaunch - usually when i fall i loop it until it points to 12o'clock so haven't tested it yet

From SPI

From: John Doan (XL Kites shop)
Texas.

Dimitri,
Just gotta say thanks a bunch for sending my big bro Matt Thames
down to South Padre for the kite roundup. Been out riding with him, and sporting
Epic kites on and off the water. Was able to ride your Limited Edition 10 Meter
Screamer and It was sweeter than what I could describe in a million words. I will be
picking one of those bad boys up as it has everything and more like I'm looking for
in a kite, just like you said in the video clip on your site. I promised Matt I'd
drop you a email to tell you how awesome of a product you have on there on the
market, and also that I am glad to see that you are getting great response, and I'm
sure that your company will take off fast, and I will spread the word about Epic to
all my kiter friends down here in Texas, as well as the West coast. Good luck In
your new venue, and you can bet Matt and I will get your kites seen out here at the
event. Sorry you weren't able to make it this year,
but I sure hope that the wedding went well, and hopefully we will see you down here
next year.

Stay Well,
John Doan

I LOVE my screamers!!! AWESOME!!! I be more than happy to demo your kites in this area, feel free to pass on my number. (9543251105)
I am using my kites as demos to all the kiters on our beach. They joke that I am the Brazilian Dimitri ( LOL ) ,because I am promoting the hell out of it! The kite is SO good, In only three days of wind I already sold one!
A few people are asking if they can use different bars, like Best,etc. How should I answer that?
So in fact I sold the 9 meter Renegade ORANGE in color complete with bar. Please quote me best price
ASAP to be shipped today May 7 if possible. Same address, same credit card.

Thank you again

Aldo

Hello Dale,
Can you post this on the BLOG


From: Corrado M. Cilio, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatric Immunology


Hi Dimitri,

I thought for correctness to update you. Well I bought the 10 ldt and the 14 screamer in the end!
Finally yesterday after 10 days of no wind or "wind but stacked at work", I had the chance to try both kites! The session started with light wind 10-12 knts and after 1-2 hrs picked up to 24-25 knts.

I have to say that Epic kites are just AWESOME!! The 14m keep me going upwind easily, very stable and made me jump high in light wind. I need to spend more time with it though and I had a bit of a tricky time to self-land it since the mini 5th do not really shout the kite down, a bit different from my other kites. The 10 ldt... ushh which a kite! Very stable and easy to re-launch, smooth to ride and gentle even under intense gusts... but the shit is the hanging time!! I had time to adjust my straps while on air = : D! Once I will ride it a bit more I can imagine doing any sort of thing up there! I will use it few more times and I dump a note on the forum!

The other good thing is that I am in sweden using epic at the moment. Many people were curious and I give the 14m to try to a bunch of them (not the 10 because I could not get out from the water, was too much fun to give it to others). There is an american guy that just set up his own company and he is very interested in distribute your kites here. If you think that is something you can be interested we can contact you under business prospective and you can deal directly with him. He is a very nice guy.

That is all, I can't wait to ride more my new Epic!! Thank you Dimitri, and I hope to see you soon-

Corrado

From: Mateusz Milosinki SU2 boards.
Dimitri,
Just wanted to let you know that I’ve demoed your kites. I am blown away by Screamer 14. I’m 245lbs and I was riding this weekend in 15-16mph wind on my 135x41 SU-2 Prorider (which as you probably know doesn’t plane that fast and requires a little bit more power). I was perfectly powered with my weight and this “small” board on the 14 (it was set to 3rd knot but I would’ve been fine on the second too).

I’m really going to miss the 14 until I get my own. I really really liked it. I really liked the bar pressure, even though it is heavier to what I’m used to, but I love how the kite handles and love the feedback on the bar. Another thing that I just love is how predictable this kite is, and it always is where you expect it to be. You guys did a great job designing this kite.

I also tried 11 Renegade that Dale sent me, but I tried it in really gnarly conditions, that were really not suitable for testing. Wind was up and down from 10 (and sometimes less) to 35-38mph. All I can say it is super stable and handles great. Also very predictable and very comfortable:)

I’m going to go ahead and order the 14 as soon as I free up some cash which should be either this week or next week. Do you take Amex or other CC? (or maybe Paypal?)

Thanks again for hooking me up with demo kites from Dale. Right now guys in LA are trying them so hope you’ll guys will have more orders coming in:)

Talk to you soon.
M.

From: Linda

HI,Dimitri. You need to make a Screamer in a 5M!!! I have been enjoying my 7M for the past two months, it is amazing!! But, there have been a couple of days that I could have used a 5M!!!! I love my kites, and I hope to post more pictures and comments after this weekend, as we have more more big wind and waves coming starting tomorrow!!! Thanks again for the amazing kites!!!
Only one problem, after about 7-8 sessions, the grip on my bar started separating and peeling away. I will send you a picture. It's weird, like where the seam comes together when its heat wrapped around the bar, that's where it started pulling apart.
Anyway, the 7M has been absolutely AMAZING!!!! Linda

Tom Atwel
Subject: 11 Renegade
Hey Dimitri. Love the kite. Been out in the surf quite a lot with it and I don’t think I put it in the water yet. Was out with Lane the day of the photo of him. My first side off day. Awesome stuff. The kite jumps well too. Thanks again.

We had a small demo day here last week had about 5 riders show up, everyone was impressed with the kites, we flew the 10 and 14. Going to put together another demo and try to get a few more people to show up. I have some photos and video. Let Dimitri know that I will try to post some of that by the end of the week. The 10 really blew a few peoples mind. It was fairly light wind and we had some lighter riders boosting on the 10. Were supprised with the power.

Hope all has been good. My wife, daughter and I will be in Hatteras along with a couple of friends first part of June and would like meet up with you,Dimitri and your family to get some riding in and would also like to invite you guys to dinner. I will let you know the dates and hope you all are available.

Take care. I will look for that invoice.

Thanks,

Steve

From SO Cal

Just wanted to share my thoughts as this week I had a chance to ride RENEGADE 11 and SCREAMER 14.

I'm 245-250lbs so definitely on the heavier side of the equation, live in LA area (mainly ride Malibu or Belmont), and usually ride twin tips (135x41 and 150x40 Mako)

This week we had a strong storm going thru for couple of days and I decided to give the 11 a shot. I'm so glad that I had the Renegade with me this Wed as the conditions were gnarly. Wind was gusting to 35-38mph and would drop to 10-15 (and sometimes it would shut off completely) and then come up to 30+ again.The kite was SUUPER stable, and very predictable. It has very nice depower so gusts didn't bother me at all. It wasn't the best day to demo anything as I was more concerned about surviving then kiting, but I was really happy with how the kite performed.

Yesterday I rode the SCREAMER 14, which I was pretty skeptical about as I didn't think that this size would be enough for my weight. I really wanted to try the kite in Malibu which usually has stronger winds than Long Beach and OC area, to get a better feel for the kite, but ended up going to Belmont which has pretty steady 15-20mph winds on a good day. I normally ride my 17 Waroo there, even when the winds occasionally go up to 20-25.
The wind today was averaging around 15-16mph (12 to 18) so I figured that I'll pump my 17 just in case, if it wasn't enough for the Screamer and a twin tip. Before I went out on a Screamer I tried another 2010 kite in 15M. It was a really nice kite with plenty of power but I did have to ride the 150 Mako as it wasn't enough for the 135 TT. Rode that one for a bit and came back to change to Screamer. Once I switched and launched I couldn't believe how much power it had! It felt more powerful than my 17.
Screamer 14 is fast, powerful, cuts upwind really well, jumps great and I love that it always is exactly in the window where you expect it to be. Feedback on the bar is great and even though the bar pressure is a little heavier (I would say it's def. less than Bandits), but it really handles great.

I'm in a market for new kites, and had a chance to try number of 2010 kites in last few months and I must say that EPIC kites were the only once that I didn't have to get used to to ride them. They felt perfect, right from the first tack like I'd always been riding Epic.

Dimitri and Dale, thanks for hooking me up with demo kites, I think I'm ready for some EPIC times with EPIC kites:)

Mark Shinn Review Renegade 6

“Hello Gentlemen,
Thanks to both your efforts I have now had a couple of solid sessions on the Epic Renegade 6m and have formed an opinion.
Thought you might like to have it......... (for what it is worth!)
The kite is very stable in all conditions. I had no stalling even in terrible gusty off shore winds. In extreme gusts the canopy maintains it's profile nicely....... no wing tip stall, no central collapsing ...... all good.
The power is impressive for a 6m kite. Pull is direct and instant. Turning is good (but then what 6m isn't!) I think I flew faster kites but it is more than fast enough and for wave riding is perfect speed.

I flew the kite on 16m, 20m and 25m lines and it handled perfectly on all of them. Unhooked it is working nicely but I would not say this is the forte of the kite. It is a little easy to stall when Unhooked and too much back line tension and it flies backwards pretty easily. But I did not get an EPIC bar so I was using another bar and maybe that was the reason.
Re launch I have absolutely no idea....... sorry!
Jumping performance is impressive also. The lift is very aggressive and the descent controlled.......
The only area where I was not absolutely stoked is in the depower. Of course the kite depowers well but not as much as some other that I've flown. But again I was not using the EPIC bar since Dimitri forgot to send it to me.

So, in conclusion.... great kite and I am loving using it...... in my very humble opinion it could have more depower and a shorter de power travel but apart from that....... very very very nice indeed.

Well done all!
Mark Shinn”

Review of the SCREAMER kite
From: Grant
Location: CA. USA
I actually got to spend a little bit of time on the screamer. But not enough to really do a full review on it yet. Hopefully tomorrow or this weekend there will be wind and I will have a video/review up by the end of next week. The Screamer is NUTS! Another rider and I demoed the Screamer and walked up to each other with huge smiles. We were absolutely blown away and couldn’t stop smiling. I definitely want to upgrade my quiver to Screamers.

From:
David W. Peterson, President
True Blue Water Sports, Inc.

Dimitri,
Had the opportunity to test the Renegade 9 yesterday in 20-25 mph gusty conditions at Pompano Beach. Had some nice waves to work as well. Even though I have only been kiting for 3 months the kite stayed right where I expected it to be. Never dropped the kite in the water once. Put myself in the pocket with ease and even made some turns without dropping the kite. Also found that the kite has some great boost. Like the bar with the grip notches. Like the extra lockdowns in the inflation and deflation valve, and the kite is particularly attractive in the air.

The Epic Renegade!

The Epic Renegade!
Poster name: grantman54
Post subject: Re: New Brand: Epic Kites
Joined: 21 Jul 2007 04:54
Posts: 470
Location: Central CA

Kiter Background:
I have been demoing a ton of kites recently and checked out the different companies at the recent Pismo Expo. I have flown, Liquid Force Sessions, Liquid Force Havocs (2010), Liquid Force Envy, Best Kahoona 2010, Best Nemesis NXG, Best Waroo, Caution Zombie 2010, GK Sonic 2010, Nobile 555 2010, Liquid Force Menace, Naish Cult, Epic Screamer, and the Epic Renegade. Through testing all of these I have found what I definitely don't like and the characteristics that make a great kite. I have been eager to test the Epic kites after hearing all the talk and checking out their quality at the expo

Features:
I was the first to try out the brand new 9m Epic Renegade that xtremebigair got for demos. (Thanks Kinsley!)
• Kite: Well I thoroughly examined Epic's quality at the recent expo (http://www.kiteforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=2363440&hilit=pismo ), and they are top notch. There are only a few companies out there putting forth the effort to produce durable products and Epic is one of them.
• Bag: Interesting bag that seems to work well. Its not your typical stuff in the kite bag. Its more like a clean suitcase for your kite. I really liked it at a glance. However, I would love to see some nice Epic graphics covering it. Im young and that kind of thing stands out to me.
• Bar: Well if you like above the bar depower and a clean system, this is a perfect bar for you. It doesn't get better than this. The below the bar swivel works well. It isn't a necessity but nice to have and very few companies have some sort of swivel. Most swivels don't work, but Epic's below the bar swivel is always there working when you want to use it. The bar's construction is refined and appears very durable. I liked all the bar's features: the beefy pretty floats, the bar foam, the durable O'shit handles, the bar ends, the simple QR, the ease of use on the depower system, and the "adjustable" bar width for your smaller kites. My only complaint would be the red plastic piece of the SDR QR. It is plasticy. I would like to see it in the future, made out of a different more refined plastic softer to the touch. The stopper! I liked this thing. Too many stoppers I have been using arent that easy to use and dont seem to work that great. The Epic stopper is my favorite by far.

Flight Specs:
My weight: 175lbs
Board: 133 Liquid Force Recoil
Beach Conditions: Typical California coast with onshore winds and waves.


The Bar in Flight:
Well this bar looks great and dandy on the beach, but what about when you take in in the water? This bar rocks! The depower and swivel are easy to use on the go. The bar pressure was in the medium range. The input was direct and immediate. The amount of throw on the bar is just the right amount and fluid. You can pretty much ride sheeted out or in. Just sheet in when you want some boost or speed. My arm position was natural and right where it should be. The Center lines were nice and thin and the bar slid over them really easily. Everything about this bar makes sense and is easy use. The kite was always where you wanted it to be and always went where you wanted it to go. The bar input was great overall with no complaints.

Kite Performance:
Wind Conditions: 18-22mph
This kite doesn't need apparent wind to get you riding. It planes really easily and gets you going pronto. It pivots in the air smoothly and gets through the wind window cleanly. You can drop it low. Bring it to 12. Do whatever you want with it and it is predictable and stable. For only having 3 struts it has extremely little canopy flutter and stays completely rigid in the air. No jellyfishing through gusts or anything like that. It is consistently powerful. I caught some tiny waves with it and I liked that I could just drop it down, sheet out, and ride the wave. But I could also play with the kite while I rode on the wave. In other words, the kite still functions with some slack in the lines. Big plus! The Renegade never hindenburged or back stalled at all. The few times I expected it to after a hard crash I looked up and it was chillin at 12! I was kinda blown away by this. My kites would have been falling out of the air after giving them that much slack. The hangtime on the kite was pretty good too. It wasn't extreme but that is not what this kite is for (Check out the Screamer for hang time). It had very fluid and smooth jumps.

Who is this kite for?
This kite is for a variety of people:
[list=]• The discerning rider looking for a quality company.
• The beginner looking for a kite that will help them progress and will continue to impress them as they become an intermediate rider.
• The general kiter. This is the kite that fills the gap between SLE and the Delta kites. It has the advantages of both with no sacrifices.
• The waverider wanting a kite that will never fall out of the sky and doesn't mind chillin out while the pilot shreds on a wave.
• The progessive rider looking for a kite that gets them planing early and is consistent throughout the window so they can work on their handlepasses and kite loops.
• The everyday rider. This kite would be great for the kiter using one kite daily because of its good range. I didn't even come close to hitting the top or bottom end.
[/list]
At a Glance Report Card
Inflation system: Excellent and quality built
Control Bar: All around best simple system out there.
Control Bar Materials: This bar will last a long long time.
Safety System: Push up standard release with center flag line. Perfect!
Bridle: Small and clean. Well built with beefy bridle pads.
Stability: The most stable kite I have flown!
Power: Excellent and consistent through the wind window.
Turning: Good pivoty motion. Predictable.
Pop: It has it just like any other kite. Not over the top but a consistent good pull.
Bar Pressure: Medium bar pressure, a bit on the heavy side. Good rider feedback.
Depower: Love it. Good system, easy to use, right amount of bar throw.
Relaunch: Never crashed it even though I myself crashed a dozen times.
Durability: Build quality is top notch.
Kite Bag: Fun bag with unique shape! (needs more pretty graphics like the kites )

Epic came out strong! Most kites need refinement after the first production but this kite is better than the generation 2/3 kites I have flown from other companies. Epic did it right and released a competitive quality product from the get go.

Paul's email

Hi,
My name is Paul. I've been kiting for a few good years all-year round on water, land and snow. You and Cameron have been my inspiration to try and teach my brother's kids (9 years old boy and 11 years old girl). Last year in Cape Cod I had them hop on my kiteboard and started pulling them around just like I saw you do it in one of your videos with Cameron. I was blown away that after the second try they were up and riding. After a few more tries they were edging properly. I was totally spent that day and the next from pulling them around.

I am ready to buy them a harness and was curious what harness does Cameron have. He looks about the same height and weight as my brother's kids. The waist size is something in between 22 and 25 inches.

I see you are having some awesome conditions in the Outer Banks. I am still landboarding as the water is too cold around Cape Cod. Good Luck with the Epic brand and I appreciate any help with the harness.

Thanks,
--Paul

Renegade 6 in high winds

DISCLAIMER: I work for Epic.

Me: 170 pound weekend warrior father of two intermediate; kiting for about 6 years now.

I got to ride my 6M Renegade again on Saturday. I rode from 1PM to about 3:30 on 20M lines. From the chart below, this is range is about 20 to 37 or so. Not exactly ideal conditions but, the kite handled really well. I had pulled about 6 to 8 inched of depower as I am a real sissy and don’t like to be over powered. Even at that range, I had to sheet out fully on some of the bigger gusts. When I have done this on kites in the past, jumping usually suffer significantly. I was amazed to see that the Renegade still had great floaty jumps even in this depowered riding mode. The kite handled just the same way with depower as well as without. It has a very smooth feel and I always knew where the kite was and it never over-flew me or got out of control.

I can’t emphasize enough on the hangtime that these kites have. You just float. It’s a really cool almost gliding like feeling. Not to mention that this three strut kite is super easy to pump up and then put away. I get two kites in one bag now.

What didn’t I like? Nothing, this kite does everything for me. In this high wind range, we get some significant swells on the river. I could sheet out, ride downwind on these swells and the Renegade would just hang there waiting for input again. I should be getting out to the coast soon and I will let you know how it goes with the waves.

Taken from the www.kiteforum.com
Post subject: Re: New Brand: Epic Kites
Medium Poster
Joined: 18 May 2008 16:34
Posts: 155 iblocalsurfer
So I finally placed an order for some Renegades after reading all these posts, watching the testimonials, and recommendation from a friend. I originally ordered some Eclipse kites, but after over 3 months of waiting, just decided to get my money back. I placed the order Monday night after Dimitri finished his demo's. I wanted a black one and a green one as my first choice, however they only had orange and green in stock for those sizes. But, he said he would make some calls to get my first choices. I know this guy was up until 1:30 am filling 17 orders that night. Well, the order went out the next morning and the kites will be here Friday(with my first color choice). More to come on the performance of the kites, however, customer service is second to none.

From: ARTHUR SISHAYE

Ma session en RENEGADE 9 ! Malheureusement je suis arrivé trop tard le vent est tombé il restais quoi allé un petit 12 noeuds et c'est la que la 9 m'a surprise bon il y'a 50kg en dessous ! Un très bon fond de puissance et super super super stable en nav' je n'ais pas déhook' (il faut que je règle les avant ..) mais je pense que en déhook' sa va vraiment etre un + cette stabilité se que je veux c'est que l'aile va très bien pardonner les erreurs en barre .. Par contre dans les saut je n'ais pas encore trouvé le petit truc qui fait que je suis monté et pourtant je senté que j'avais de la puissance pour envoyer .. Sa va venir ! sinon j'ais backé un peu l'aile pour tester le redécolage et bien qu'il y avait 12 noeuds sa redécollait tout seule vraiment un plus pour le déhook' (je fais souvent tomber l'aile) .. Le petit bordé choqué est vraiment un confort ! Sinon en kiteloop sa tourne tout seule ! même dans 12 noeuds les loop passaient tout seule (une fois l'aile engagé le loop est rapide et donc ne t'arrache pas comme une me*** .. voila j'attend des vrai bonne session pour en dire plus mais c'est se que j'en ais pensé (pour la 6 a mon avis si elle suit sa grande soeur --> machine à kiteloop très table et pour une petite bache sa va être niquel en déhooké pour le vent fort )


Petit retour sur la RENEGADE 6 .
Cette 6 est super maniable , légère en barre (mais pas trop (moin qu'une Furia ..)) On a toujours un fond de puissance et elle reste supere stable (perso top pour le déhook en apprantissage et top niveau ) elle redécolle super bien ce qui est pratique quand on back souvent l'aile .. ! Dans les jumps , sa va monter haut ! tout comme la 9m d'ailleurs ! On la prend vite en main moi il m'a juste fallut un peu de temps pour monter dans les tricks .. Après ça c'est perso .
Un point que j'adore le bordé choqué (il est vraiment court se qui peut faire un peu peur pour ceux qui sont habitués à avoir une aile total dépower type naish cult ou autre) Mais beaucoup plus agréable , et sur cette courte distance on arrive déjà a bien annulé la puissance De plus je navigue dans un coin ou de temps en temps on peut avoir des sessions rafaleuses et bien la j'ais était très surpris on ne les rescend pas , j'ais meme pris un grain ( qui je vous avous n'étais pas 15 noeuds - 30 noeuds ) mais sa a bien pris et j'étais bien . Pour le vent fort je pense que sa va être le top..
Après niveau défauts perso j'en ais pas vus comme ça , le matos est vraiment simpa puis une déco vraiment cool (personnellement) Après je vous invites a venir tester tout ca , et faire un comte rendu sur ce que vous avez aimé et moin aimé sur l'aile Je serais dispo a la baule le week prochain avec Nico , puis dès le Lundi après la Baule dispo à Larochelle toute la semaine (surtout chatelaillon) . voila les riders.

More from Facebook

From FACEBOOK> David posted something on your Wall:

"Dang! I loves my Renegade 11! Thanks dimitri for a great kite. Two days ago we had gusty wind and huge waves. And any one who has seen how the sets come in rio de janeiro can tell you one after another. Some jerk put his kite in between my lines!!! And my baby fell into the waves. Once up again i was so tiered and p.off that I dropped the kite when the wave hit me hard and on the third try the same thing. Now this is where all of my buddies say your kite will tear in the waves. and my friends BEST 2009 just ripped open. But min was like brand spanking new and asking for more. One thing this newbie can tell you is this kite can take wave pounding like no other kite." David posted something on your Wall and wrote:

From Facebook

From Marshall Pugh on FACEBOOK.
Hey dimitri, thanks for the hop on the screamer 10 today at jockey's. that kite feels pretty dam good. put me in for a couple.

From: FLYSURF.COM (French web site)
Author: deltaC4.9
Ma session en 9 renegade ! Malheureusement je suis arrivé trop tard le vent est tombé il restais quoi allé un petit 12 noeuds et c'est la que la 9 m'a surprise bon il y'a 50kg en dessous ! Un très bon fond de puissance et super super super stable en nav' je n'ais pas déhook' (il faut que je règle les avant ..) mais je pense que en déhook' sa va vraiment etre un + cette stabilité se que je veux c'est que l'aile va très bien pardonner les erreurs en barre .. Par contre dans les saut je n'ais pas encore trouvé le petit truc qui fait que je suis monté et pourtant je senté que j'avais de la puissance pour envoyer .. Sa va venir ! sinon j'ais backé un peu l'aile pour tester le redécolage et bien qu'il y avait 12 noeuds sa redécollait tout seule vraiment un plus pour le déhook' (je fais souvent tomber l'aile) .. Le petit bordé choqué est vraiment un confort ! Sinon en kiteloop sa tourne tout seule ! même dans 12 noeuds les loop passaient tout seule (une fois l'aile engagé le loop est rapide et donc ne t'arrache pas comme une me*** .. voila j'attend des vrai bonne session pour en dire plus mais c'est se que j'en ais pensé (pour la 6 a mon avis si elle suit sa grande soeur --> machine à kiteloop très table et pour une petite bache sa va être niquel en déhooké pour le vent fort

Dimitri
I only could ride the 10m - it's just great!!! Such a stability at this
power,.. Wow!! And a big, big lift!! Immediately I felt comfortable with
this kite.
I first had the safety that was activated by itself, but afterwards I
found that it wasn't pushed all the way to the end. I didn't have any
problems later on.
Regards
Ogi

From California

Hey Dimitri,
I normally don't do this but I just got into kiteboarding and picked up a nano 9m that I have absolutely fell in love with. I have tried other brands and can honestly say that I am going to demo Epic kites for sure. You have created a great kite in the Nano and I can only imagine how great the Renegade and eventually the Screamer are going to be.
Well done and being a complete newbie it is quite evident how nice these kites really are. I have a buddy that flies the Thruster and feels that it is the best kite that he has owned and is looking to buy a Screamer.
James Robinson

More

Hi Dimitri, Helen,

Just got the Renegade 9. Black white and red accents. What a beauty! Can't wait to ride it. Winds light though.

Went out on Screamer 14 yesterday...maybe 12-15 knots. Kited alone for an hour an a half...in the deep blue.
Humpbacks couple of hundreds yards out further. Nice even wind conditions. Threw some airs, not too big cause it was light. Took off the extensions, but after the session replaced them, 20 meter maybe too short for big kite and light winds.

Winds lightened up further, switched to strapless surfboard... wind stopped for a moment while I was way out. Kite fell out of the sky, and I thought oops, on no. Wind picked up again but very light in the 10 to 12 knot range. Pulled on the steering line and the kite relaunched. I was ready for a long swim...simply amazing!

PS. selling my 2010, 11 Ovando, and will UPGRADE to a 10 special edition screamer and 11 renegade.


Aloha,

."Sandwich island Kiter".

From Europe

So today i went into the freezing water. I have to say when your looking at the water and somewhere on an sandbank a bit further away lays about half a meter of ice (just some spots) it doesn’t help with enthousiasm to go in that water. But well we did it anyways. Because I wanted to finally give those screamers a go.
Only problem was the wind.. it wasn’t really there. The first session was kinda weak. Nobody good get upwind but some managed to stay at a certain height. But me and a friend are between 30 and 50 kilo’s heavier then most of them. So we got the 14 and 12 screamer. The wind was just not enough to really go with it. I was riding the 12m.
And DAMNN what a nice kite. It felt so familiar right away. Loads and loads faster then my old 13m waroo, and more power and loads more speed. Eventhough I couldn’t keep height I went fast. My friend on the 14, had about the same problem. So after a while we stopped for a while. We where kinda disappointed so we checked the internet about what wind we actually had. About 12 knots with some gusts from 15. And on that point even less. About an hour later we tried again because slowely the wind was picking up. Maybe 13 knots, but we gave it a go but not too much.
Then a guy I know wanted to test the 14m since he’s also 30 kilos less. And suddenly the wind also started picking up. So he even could get upwind a bit after a while.

Then I got on my 12m, and damnnnn what was it nice. So fast and much power. Couldn’t queit find the sweetspot for jumping since it’s a little different then my waroo. The kite feels so good, stable and fast. It even felt good enough to try a backroll kiteloop, and I haven’t done that one too much and after a couple months of winterbreak I didn’t even think of it.. but at some point I wanted to give it a try.. WELL… lets just say that 12m does something while looping… the loop pulled me up a bit with loads of power resulting in a nice head first landing in the freezing water. I overturned to much and ended up way higher then I expected it too. It was really impressive to feel the sudden power in the loop.
Since the wind wasn’t really strong yet, me and that other guy changed kites, me on the 14 and he on the 12. I believe he liked it. The 14m had so much power, loads more then I expected. From the speed its similar to my waroo 13m but a bit smoother and much much more power. Maybe even a bit too much power when the wind picked up a bit. I even needed to depower (maybe because of the fact it was my first time in 4 or 5 months kiting again) but I reckon it was inbetween 17 and 19 knots tops.. but it had too much power for me at that point. So I got the 12m on again. And its simply a different kite. Its so much faster and feels lighter. Was really a lot of fun to ride.

The bar was great, I usually cramp up my hands in the first session with gloves on. But the bar felt really good. Nice grip and easy too use. One of the first videos of you dimitri was with you playing and fooling around with the bar, power/depower, stopperball, QR and that kind of stuff. I thought it was going that easy because you are that good… WELL.. I did all those things without any effort. Playing with the stopperball. I even could ride the 12m full on the stopperball with my hands behind my head.. NEVER could do that with my old kites. That’s how stable it is.
Also tried to release the kites a couple of times. I didn’t know what to expect since I read a bad review on the blade 09 QR, but it shows the 2010 improvements work really good. Didn’t cost much effort to release it, the leash and mini fith did there work just fine. And it was so easy to put back together. Specially compared to those pins on my previous kites.
The straps work really good, not too far away from me, and I like the elastic band that keeps the power strap on a steady place.

The barpressure, call me a sissy but the 14m had a lot of barpressure in those winds. Not that insane much as the first bandit had. But it was still a lot. Also at some point the kite even had a lot of power with the bar against the strap. Didn’t like that feel to much. But again maybe it had more to do with me not kiting several months. The barpressure on the 12 was waay nicer, cant call it a light barpressure but it sure wasn’t too much either.

Relaunch was easy worked a lot better then my waroo, it was really just waiting with one line in my hand and it launched again.

So screamers. Are obviously fast, have much more power then other kites I know. Very smooth steering. I found them very quick responding. An other guy said it had a bit of response delay which could be since he rides deltas. I didn’t notice any delay myself. Hangtime is sweet, the kites put me down very softly. And when you loop them be prepared to go hard.
In other words.. CANT WAIT FOR MY NEXT EPIC RIDE.


J. Tump

From Hatteras

Name: duckman

Finally got a chance to ride the Screamer 12 on Saturday at KP,Hatteras in solid 20 to 25+ winds and cold low 40's. I usually dont ride flat water but the sun was out, the kite was rigged and the beer was free so I gave it a rip. As soon as I put up the kite I turned to Enzo and said "This kite wants to jump". I was very impressed. Sitting in the trucks the wind had lulled so I passed on the Renegade 9, thinking it might be small. The Screamer 12 however was ready to rip. I was impressed as much with its height and length of jumps as I was with how stable it was when you where up in the air. It was the opposite of "twitchy" kites that overreact to every pull on the bar. It turned when I wanted it to and waited when I didn't want it to turn. Looping was solid but not jerky and the depower was more than enough to compensate for bail outs. Kite relaunch was easy. Cant go wrong with it as an all around kite. Handled gusts into the high 20's smoothly and with no great bar pressure . Really smooth power delivery when the kite is put downwind and you are behind it. As to waves, I think this pull might rip you a bit off the faces and I definitely prefer my Renegade 11 for waves, but for the occassional wave rider/mostly flat water kiter you could definitely make it work. As I was riding the Screamer 12 I was thinking of Dimitri's riding style and realized "This kite is the kite Dimitri would build to ride"

bomb proof!!!!

Hello Dimitri,

BOMBER!!!! Epic kites are definitely bomb proof. We finally got a nice
windy day today here in SF. I started out on the 10 LE Screamer. Sick
kite, crazy stable and dependable. I was way out on the outside when I
got drilled by a solid 8-10 foot wave. I came up from the first
pounding just in time to see the kite hit the water and get slammed by
the wave. It dragged me for a bit and then I came up and started to
relaunch. Just before it launched, it gets hit by another solid 6-8
footer and I get dragged again. This repeats another 3 or 4 times
before I release the chicken loop. It was kind of gnarly out there
today. After releasing, I let it pull me in by the leash until the
waves let up a bit. I finally got my hands back on the bar and
relaunched unhooked. I'm then dragging in holding the open chicken
loop until I hit the beach and put it on its edge to re-latch the
chicken loop and relaunch before heading out for more. It was probably
blowing 17-28 out there and I was definitely over powered on the 10. I
went in and had some lunch and then went back out on the 6m Renegade
as the wind had filled in and was a solid 24-35 or so. I was super lit
on the 6 and caught some bombs. Double overhead on a few and intense,
grinding waves. VERY impressed with how the kites fly and perform but
even more impressed by the bomb proof construction. Put to the test
today for sure!! I'm stoked to be part of the team and flying Epic.
Thanks Dimitri.

Mike Kramer

An Email from Sorensen

I have pictures from Mexico I wanted to post but my memory card is not working! Hopefully I will be able to get them off of it. I have been getting a lot of people to try out these Screamers I bought and everyone loves them!
It's crazy to think that was only 5 months ago and now the Epic kites are out there and people are raving about them! Great work!
See you in April, it will be Epic!

L. Sorensen

An Email from Nick

“Dimitri,
Today I tried my 7m screamer for the first time after using my 10m as well this week. The 10 was insane and had a great low end and hang time.

About the 7m:
The wind was around 32 to 36knts and still had the steering line knot on the second one. The kite had to much power so I tried the normal knot and the second knot on the power lines. This was allot better but still thanks to the insane gusts I was overpowered sometimes. Other people had the same problem so not entirely the kites fault. After that I removed the 4m extensions, and on the 20m lines I managed to keep my edge. The jumping on a high powered 7 is absolutely insane especially when you get a gust whilst you are in the air. Though still the kite was a bit overpowered. Would changing the bridle setting to slow (was on fast) help a bit more? Or do you know the best setting?

Thanks in advance, as I said before I am happy with the kites and the way they fly.
Yours,
Nick de Rijcke”

To Dimitri

"mate... saw you at DISCOVERY channel... destroyed in seconds :)

the pier jump ;)

at the end they say that you now use helmet and that you do not take risks anymore... LOOOOOOL

KITE ON!!!!!"

even more from PR

Just demoed some Epic kites in Puerto Rico. Here's my take on the kites....

Test conditions:
Average wind speeds: 16-20 knots and some stronger gusts
Spots: flat water and small chop
Board: 131 x 40 2009 Skywalker Rider
My weight is 70kg (155 lbs)
Kite experience: 2 years, intermediate, freestyle

Gotta start by I'm not affiliated to Epic to Epic or any other brand. I have flown Best, Royal, Liquid Force, Cabrinha, Ocean Rodeo, Monkey, Eclipse (Nano) and Slingshot. Currently flying SS RPMs and REVs, so I'll compare to these.

Flew a Screamer LTD 10m, a Renegade 12m and a Renegade 9m. The three felt perfect right away, like if I had already used them many times before. The only kites I've tried that have felt so good right from the start have been SS and Royal kites.

Screamer LTD 10m
Got a new kite straight from the bag. Flew it as it comes from factory. Only change made was, as per Dimitri's suggestion, adjusted the front lines to innermost knot (made them shorter).

Seems extremely well built with good attention to details.

First of all: the bar. I loved it. It is light, with green on the right, red on the left and a good written warning when you have the bar on the wrong way. Colored lines. Elastic bands on each tip of the bar to hold the lines (brands like LF have it, I wish SS did.) The grip is super comfortable. So far my favorite grip has been SS. Epic's has a perfect thickness, super soft. Sailed for three 3 hours and my hands didn't feel tired. Could have kited the whole day without hurting my hands a bit.
The quick release is very easy to access in an emergency, without getting in your way. With some quick releases it is easy to activate them by accident, but i don't thing there's a chance here. Can't tell how good it works cause I didn't use it. Everything looks of good quality and strong. Chicken loop has a very neat size.
Power/depower above the bar. I'm not used to this, since I'm used to SS's depower below the bar. I always loved the idea of having the power/depower rope below the idea, but I recently had some issues with it...when I pull the depower rope it gets stuck in the cleat, so the whole thing comes out including the chicken loop. You know what happens rest. So I got to appreciate the power/depower above the bar in Epic kites. The nicest thing is that it has two very distinctive, reachable and big handles to pull. This helps to avoid pulling the wrong end in a hurry. Liked it a lot.

Bar pressure - I suffered from tennis elbow a year ago that kept me from kiting for a while, so I always look for light pressure. Heavier pressure in C kites bring me back the pain in minutes. This bar felt like heaven. Very light pressure, even better than the pressure on Revs, which was my favorite till now.

Boosting - This kites wants to jump all the time. High boosting without any effort. The hangtime is great. Compared to my 10m RPM, it gives me about the same hang time but a lot more height in flat water. Better hangtime than my 11m REV. I wish I could try the Screamer with some good chops!! I don't dare to say its the higher jumper out there, but if there are any kites better at jumping, I'm sure the Screamer beats them in most other aspects, like safety, relaunch and stability (see below)

Relaunch - The kite fell three times but but didn't actually get to lay on the water, so I wasn't able to test the relaunch well. I did do a self launch from the water and it was super smooth and fast.

Turning speed - Super fast. Moves like a 9m. Not extremely fast, but, for me, it was the perfect speed.

Power - This is where this kite excels. Super powerful. I felt I was in a 12m. Also, when the wind died and other 10 & 11m kites were not enough, I was still moving.

Stability - Very stable kite. I never had to watch it, you always feel where it is even with the light bar pressure. Flew great everywhere in the wind window. Easy to control - toe side, heel side

Overall, compared to my RPM, i felt it performed similar in most aspects, but the Screamer excels in jump height, stability**, pulls harder, and the power/depower system. I would have to test in more in lighter conditions to be able to say it really has a better low end, but It definitely felt very well powered at 18-20 knots. At that wind speed it pulled stronger than all 10m kites I've tried and as much as all 11m.

RENEGADE 12m and 9m

I didn't that much time in these. Same great bar as the Screamer (read above). The stability on this kites is even better. I loved how the Screamers managed the gusts. I didn't get the harsh pull you get in other kites. In this it was similar to my RPM, better than Screamer and SS REV. For students this kite feels extremely safe. With 3 struts the kite is very light. I tried letting the kite up in the air without holding the bar and it stays perfectly up at 12 everytime.
When parked, the screamers stay there and feel great. I believe these would be great for riding unhooked.
The 11m Renegade turns noticeably slower than the Screamer ltd 10m and my 11m SS Rev. I know many guys that prefer it like this. It didn't jump as high as the Screamer but jumped pretty high. It is a super powerful kite for going fast. Relaunch was instant. It felt super comfortable at 20 knots. Actually felt as good as the Screamer 10m.

The 9m Renegade
Got amazed with this guy! Felt perfect when everyone else was with 10 - 12m kites. Felt powered, very good jumps, and as stable as the 12m. I loved the turning speed. Felt very similar to the Screamer 10m. Great speed, not crazy fast speed, but super good-controllable speed. Loved it. According to Epic's website its high end is more than I'll ever need, and I'm sure it will still feel safe and stable. If I were to buy a 9m today, I would buy this one right away.


The three Epic kites felt perfect right at the first time. I would buy any of these right away. I was stoked with the Screamer 10m and the Renegade 9m. Would love to try the Screamer 12m - might end up buying a Screamer 12m and the Renegade 9m , or a 10m Screamer Ltd as a one kite quiver. I've loved SS kites for a while and am now loving Epic kites.

Have to say that Dimitri was extremely nice with everyone and was thrilled to have us try his kites. It is uncommon to have the big shot from a kite company come spend time, open a bunch of kites for demos, take pictures, give shirts, surf and tell jokes with local kiters. I didn't even have to rig my own kite. Getting to know the man gives an extra value to his products. (kudos to Dimitri for his marketing skills:) ) My friends liked the kites very much and already offered Dimitri to buy his demo kites before he leaves the island.

These kites are very good in every aspect. I haven't checked their pricing, but at a right price these kites might well be the best buy in the 4 line inflatable freestyle/wakestyle kites market. Can't tell about surf - we spent the day in flat water heaven( Parguera, Puerto Rico)