ELITE WATERSPORTS
Last updated 3-8-2024
How to tune your kiteboarding kite
Small changes make a big difference.
What do kiteboarding control bars do?
Kiteboarding companies offer many options to tune your kite. There are settings on the kite's wingtips and sometimes on the leading edge. Sometimes there areadjustable settings on the kiteboarding control bar, or options of different size bars to choose from.
You can also adjust kite line lengths for a different experience all together. Depending on your skill level and discipline this can make all the difference for your progression.
Most kiteboarders do not take advantage of the small refinements. This is a shame as it greatly affects how your kiteboarding gear performs! If you are struggling to land a certain trick or hate riding a certain kite size, these tips can change everything for you.
Regardles of the issue you are having or the trick you are working on, there is likely a solution to be found by making some minor adjustments for big results.
Table Of Content
- kiteboarding control bar sizes and how to pair them with a kite.
- Benefits of small kiteboarding control bars
- Benefits of large kiteboarding control bars
- Benefits of medium kiteboarding control bars
- Kiteboarding line Lengths explained
- More kite tuning options
kiteboarding control bar sizes and how to pair them with a kite.
Different kiteboarding brands are going to have different size control bars. Generally, you would pair two bars with a quiver of three kites. You can choose one to three sizes.
Most shops recommend something in the 50cm to 55cm range. This size bar works well across all kite sizes.
How do I choose a kiteboarding control bar size?
- 42 - 49 cm bars for 03m - 10m kites
- 50 - 58 cm bars for 11m - 13m kites
- 55 - 63 cm bars for 14m - 19m kites
You can mix and match any size kiteboarding control bar with any size kiteboarding kite. Different size bars will change the way your kite flies. For example, a large bar on a small kite is going to be fast. Likely too fast for comfort. A small bar on a large kite is going to be slow. Unless you are a freestyle rider this will be annoying.
A common complaint among kiteboarders is that large kites are too slow. Using a large control bar in the 60cm range and setting the kite up on the fast setting will improve your experience on the water. With the new ultra pe leading edge kites that fly faster, you might fall in love with 17m kites again in 2024.
Benefits of small kiteboarding control bars
Small kiteboarding control bars are normally paired with a smaller kite. For example, you might have one standard control bar that works fine on your 12m kite.
When the wind gets strong you would find a 7m kite to be too fast. Maybe you are crashing a lot or intimidated to try back rolls. A small control bar would solve this issue for you.
What does a small kite control bar do?
- Slows down the kite
- Increase Stability
- Direct feel to the kite
On the other side of the spectrum, sometimes kiteboarders want to slow down their large kites too. This is more common with freestyle riders. Sometimes they will even modify their bar to 35cm.
Brands used to manufacture very small bars. This is less common these days. Realisticaly a 45cm bar is more than effitiant to achive the desired effect of a small control bar.
Benefits of large kiteboarding control bars
Big kiteboarding control bars make kites more reactive. If you are someone who wants a more playful kite this is the ticket. It's common for most kiteboarders to prefer their 10m kite. After all, they are fast and exciting, they kite loop well and with lots of power. Using a large bar on a 12m or 14m kite will liven things up. Loops will feel faster and easier too.
What does a large kite control bar do?
- Faster feeling kite
- More power via apparent wind
- Better turning makes large kites feel smaller
Be mindful of using these with small kites. A 60cm bar on a 7m kite is going to be dramatic. You would feel out of control trying back rolls and probably accidentally crash or pull a kite loop. If you are always puling kiteloops by mistake, a small control bar is going to fix this issue for you.
Benefits of medium kiteboarding control bars
Kite bars in the 50cm range are the most common. They also work well enough on every size kiteboarding kite. This is the size most often paired with kiteboarding kites. It's the correct pairing for a 12m kite. It will work well enough on a 7m and can be used effectively on a 17m. Chances are you already have a 50cm or 55cm bar as its the standard.
Why chose a medium size kiteboarding control bar
- Most practical size
- Good for beginners
- One bar for everykite
If you can only afford one bar, this size is the most practical. Don’t feel like you need to add bars to progress. All of these tips will make a difference but they won’t make or break you as a kiteboarer. Keep reading to learn about adjustments you can make on your kite.
Kiteboarding Line Lengths explained
Generally kiteboarding kites come with 22m -24m lines. Some brands like Airsush kiteboarding have adjustable line lengths. This is done by removing segments of the line to tun your kite.
Short kite control bar lines would be anything from 12m to 20m. They have a lot of applications.They are popular for hydrofoiling and kite loops. Being so close to your kite will make piloting the kite very direct. Schools also use short lines for safety reasons.
Long lines genraly are 25m - 27m. They help monumentaly with light wind. You will have a larger power stroke to get up and ride. Sometimes the wind is better up high. Long lines can take advantage of this too. Be aware that it does slow the kite down.
If you want to learn more about kiteboarding bar tuning, watch this video. Aaron at Elite watersports goes into great detail.
More tuning options
Some brands go a step further. The Airush lithium bridal can be adjusted with simple knots on the leading edge. This will increase or decrease the bar pressure.
Check your kite and model to see if their are instuctions and options on the steering line knots and leading edge.
Kiteboarding Control Bars & Kitesurfing Bars
Kiteboarding Control Bars & Kitesurfing Bars - Precision, Safety & Performance for Every Rider
Your control bar is the heart of your kiteboarding system — the direct link between you and the kite, the tool that communicates every gust, turn, and power stroke. A high-quality control bar doesn't just improve your riding; it enhances Safety, responsiveness, and overall confidence on the water.
Welcome to the Elite Water Sports Control Bars Collection, where every bar has been selected for reliability, performance, and compatibility with the kiteboarding brands riders trust most. Whether you're learning your first body drag in Tampa Bay, progressing into upwind riding at the Skyway Bridge, or sending powered loops in winter winds, the proper control bar dramatically improves your experience.
Here, you'll find the best bars from Core, North, Naish, Ozone, Reedin, and Slingshot, each engineered with advanced safety features, durable materials, and precise handling.
Why Control Bars Matter More Than Most Riders Realize
A kite is only as good as the bar controlling it. Even the highest-end kite struggles when paired with a worn-out or low-quality control system. Your bar impacts:
✔ Steering precision
✔ Power delivery
✔ Riding comfort
✔ Safety during emergencies
✔ Kite relaunching
✔ Freestyle capability
✔ Load management
Modern kiteboarding bars — like the ones featured in your product grid — include quick-release systems, clean flag-out safety mechanisms, and ultra-responsive lines that translate your movements instantly.
When you choose a premium control bar, you're investing in smoother, safer, and more controlled sessions.
Featured Bars in This Collection
Core Sensor 4 - German Precision at Its Finest
The Core Sensor 4 is one of the most advanced control systems available. Known for its ultralight carbon-infused construction, simple yet refined trim system, and unmatched safety design, the Sensor 4 offers:
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Titanium core hardware
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Auto-untwist lines
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Clean, low-drag profile
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Feather-light bar feel
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Confident single-front-line flag-out
Ideal for riders who want maximum connection and minimal weight.
Perfect for: Big air, freeride, wave, and foil riders looking for premium performance.
Ozone Contact V5 Control Bar - Clean, Simple, Reliable
Ozone is known for bulletproof engineering, and the Contact V5 is no exception. Featured prominently in your grid, this bar offers:
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Soft-coated bar ends
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Responsive power adjustments
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High-quality flying lines
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Compact safety system
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Smooth depower handling
Perfect for: Riders who appreciate minimalist, intuitive design and long-lasting durability.
North Navigator PRO Control System
Lightweight, ergonomic, and built for high-performance riders, the PRO version includes:
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Adjustable bar width
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PU-coated lines for smoother bar travel
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Refined quick-release system
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Premium lines and precision hardware
2024 North Navigator Control System & Short Throw Version
These standard models prioritize comfort and control for all skill levels, with excellent grip texture and smooth depower travel.
Perfect for: Beginner-to-pro riders across freeride, big air, and surf.
Reedin DreamStick X2 - Ultra-Light & Ultra-Responsive
The DreamStick X2 stands out in your collection for being:
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Extremely lightweight
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Incredibly responsive
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Designed with a slim grip
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Built for freestyle, freeride, and surf flow riding
The DreamStick's iconic minimalist design and premium lines make it a favourite for technical riders.
Perfect for: Freestyle, kite loops, wave riding, and advanced progression.
Slingshot Joystick V1 - Versatile & Rider-Friendly
Equipped with a rigid construction and dependable flag-out safety, the Slingshot Joystick V1 offers:
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Excellent comfort in the hand
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Strong, dependable build
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Great value for the price
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Intuitive quick-release
This control bar is excellent for intermediates and returning riders wanting dependable performance.
Control Bar Types in This Collection
✔ Freeride Control Bars
Balanced handling for everyday riding.
✔ Freestyle/Burst Bars
Fast-turning, heavily reinforced bars for loops and pop tricks.
✔ Big Air Bars
Designed with rigid frames for quick response in high-wind conditions.
✔ Foil-Specific Bars
Lightweight, minimalist designs for subtle steering.
✔ Short Throw Bars
Designed for riders with shorter reach or those seeking more sensitive sheeting control.
Key Features You'll Find Across This Collection
These bars come equipped with technology riders rely on:
Safety & Quick Releases
Modern QR systems offer fast, reliable flag-out when riders need it most.
Premium Dyneema / SK Lines
Low-stretch, high-strength lines for precise performance.
Trim Options (Clamcleat / Strap / Depower Handles)
Smooth options for power adjustments during riding.
Auto-Unswivel Technology
Keeps lines tangle-free.
Comfort Grip & Ergonomic Shapes
Minimises hand fatigue during long sessions.
Adjustable Bar Width
Ensures optimised handling across different kite sizes.
Who These Bars Are Perfect For
✔ Beginners
Simple, forgiving systems like the North Navigator or Slingshot Joystick.
✔ Intermediate Riders
Bars with more refined trim systems and smoother sheeting (Ozone Contact V5).
✔ Advanced Freeriders / Big Air Riders
Fast-response bars like the Sensor 4, DreamStick X2, and Navigator PRO.
✔ Wave & Foil Riders
Lightweight bars with excellent finesse and reduced inertia.
Why Buy Control Bars From Elite Water Sports?
✔ Expert Knowledge, Instructor-Backed Advice
Our team uses these bars daily in St. Petersburg conditions — we help you pick the right one for your kite model, style, reach, and skill level.
✔ Trusted Brands Only
CORE, North, Naish, Ozone, Reedin, Slingshot — the most reliable names in kiteboarding.
✔ Local Pickup & Fast Nationwide Shipping
From our shop to your doorstep—fast, flexible, and always reliable.
✔ Hands-On Setup Help
We'll help you rig your new bar, calibrate line lengths, and test flag-out systems.
✔ Perfect Compatibility Assurance
We ensure your bar properly matches your kite brand and safety system.
How to Choose the Right Control Bar
1. Match the Bar to Your Kite Brand
While universal bars exist, brand-specific pairings provide optimal performance and the safest flag-out.
2. Choose the Right Width
Smaller bars = faster kites
Larger bars = slower, more controlled turning
3. Determine Your Discipline
Freeride, big air, foiling, or surf — each has ideal features.
4. Check Your Safety Needs
Always choose a bar with a dependable, intuitive quick-release.
5. Comfort Grip is Critical
A grip that fits your hands reduces fatigue.
Upgrade Your Riding With a High-Performance Bar
Your control bar makes more of a difference in your riding than almost any other piece of equipment. With Elite Water Sports' collection of top-tier control bars — hand-selected, rider-tested, and optimised for Florida's conditions — you can enjoy smoother power delivery, more precise steering, safer sessions, and faster progression.
Explore the collection today to find the perfect bar for your kite, your style, and your next session.
Ride smarter.
Ride safer.
Ride with Elite.
Need help with gear or booking a lesson?
Elite Watersports has served the St Petersburg area for years. They offer kiteboarding and wingsurfing lessons. They also have a retail shop equpit with all of the latest kitesurfing gear.
If you need help give us a call. .
(727)-800-2202
Author
Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic
Tags
Kiteboarding Tampa
Kiteboarding control bars
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