The bar, the heart of control

The “kite bar” or simply “bar” connects the athlete to the kite via control and safety lines 20-30 m long and enables precise control in terms of direction and force development.

Almost all current models have several safety mechanisms to allow partial or complete separation from the kite in the event of danger or loss of control.

Typically, these safety features include a “quick release” on the “chickenloop” (a quick-release connection on the loop to which the harness is attached) and a “safetyleash”.

When the quick release is triggered, the kite falls into the water and becomes depressurized, but remains connected to the harness via a line to prevent the kite from being lost.

When the safety leash is released, the athlete is completely separated from the kite.

 

There are three different bar systems with different numbers of lines:

 

4-line: Two lines transmit the pulling forces and are brought together in the middle to form the depower line. The other two lines, also called steering lines, enable aerodynamic manipulations such as steering, changing the angle of attack or braking.

5-line: The fifth line is attached centrally or as a “Y” to the front edge of the kite’s front tube. It allows the kite to be blown out without pressure and thus increases safety. In addition, it helps to bring the kite into a favorable position when launching from the water. An adjustable fifth line stabilizes the kite profile and extends the usable wind range.

2-line: A two-line only allows a limited depower of the kite. By letting go of the bar, the kite can immediately blow out on one of the lines in an emergency situation and then only hangs on the safety line, which is often attached to the harness. This system is occasionally used in beginner training to develop a feel for the kite.