Choosing your first Rev: EXP or XX by Revolution Kites

Transcript

1. ›

   Starting out: EXP or XX

   0:00

   Hi, I'm Joe Hadzicki, inventor of the Revolution. Often people ask me which Rev they should start out with. It's a difficult question because there are a lot of variables to consider. So today we're going to take a look at the EXP and the Reflex XX and see if we can help you out with that question. The EXP is our base model, but don't let that fool you: it's got a full graphite structure, it comes with a 60-foot Spectra line set and stainless steel handles, and it has the Reflex feature. It's an awesome kite. What people really love about it is the great price point.

2. ›

   The Reflex XX model

   0:36

   The Revolution XX is our top-of-the-line model. It's slightly larger than the 1.5, but it also has an all-graphite structure, and it comes with graphite handles and 85-foot line sets. The really important thing about all the Revolutions is that they come with Club 38, and that's how you learn all the advanced skills you need to fly like a pro. The Reflex XX comes in two models: the full sail and the vented version called the Tarantula, my favorite model.

3. ›

   Three differences

   1:03

   There are three main differences between the EXP and the XX. The first one is size. The second difference is the shaft size. On the EXP we have a quarter-inch shaft; on the XX we have a 5/16. In fact, the 5/16 is so large it fits over the quarter-inch shaft. The third difference is sail tension. The smaller-diameter shaft of the EXP makes the sail much softer, so you don't have that tension. The XX is much stiffer.

4. ›

   Advanced skills and the snap spin

   1:46

   These three differences combined make it much easier to do advanced skills with the Reflex XX, for example the snap spin. It looks like this. The smaller size of the EXP, basically the 1.5 size, makes the wing more responsive, and when you're an experienced pilot this is no problem, you can snap right to it. But when you're starting out and learning these skills, that responsiveness makes it a challenge. Here it is on the EXP.

5. ›

   Reverse flight on the XX

   2:23

   Let's take a look at the XX. That larger size gives you the stability that makes it easier to lock those skills in as you develop. In reverse flight the Reflex makes all the difference. It keeps your wing from flipping. Still, the smaller size of the EXP is a stability issue, so it's a little more challenging. It's definitely doable, it's just a little bit more challenging. Here's the EXP.

6. ›

   Recovery on both models

   3:13

   Even though the conditions are getting light, the Tarantula is amazing in reverse flight. The Reflex gives you that recovery ability, which is incredible. Both models have the Reflex, so you have it on both; the XX is just a little bit better. Let's take a look at the EXP laid out. It's just floating there, and you've got lots of time to recover. Let's try it overhead. Great recovery.

7. ›

   Tarantula in light wind

   4:06

   Now the XX Tarantula. Take it out to the edge: lots of time to recover. Let's take it up. I love the Tarantula. The XX is so efficient that it flies in such light winds. It gives you that bigger range where you can fly from very light winds up to moderate winds. The EXP you can't fly in as light winds. I've even flown the XX indoors, in zero wind, so if you get a chance, find a gym, jump in there and give it a try. I love the XX for that large wind range.

8. ›

   When to choose the EXP

   4:58

   On the other hand, there are reasons why I may choose an EXP. For example, if I've got a restricted budget, the EXP is a great price point. If I'm planning on just banging around with family and friends, the EXP is tougher, so that might be a great choice. If I'm not sure how committed I am, the EXP is a great way to get a feel for the Rev experience. All right, I hope this helps you with making your choice. See you on the field.