Review North Evo 2012

Kite

Delta shaped allround SLE kite

Designers goals

The Evo is quiet possibly the most versatile kite in the North range; a crossover kite that performs as well in the surf as it does for unhooking and throwing the latest new-school tricks. Smooth, predictable power delivery and steady C-like bar feel invite you to unhook and push your new-school moves to the next level, throw massive kite loops or boost big airs. The Evo also offers excellent depower ability and quick, predictable turning and drift ideal for the more surf-minded kiters. Whatever the day brings, you will always be prepared to take advantage of the conditions. Whether you´re into stomping freestyle tricks, shredding waves, jumping, cruising or all of the above, the Evo´s got you covered!

Features

• Delta-Oriented Design
• Adaptive Tips
• Huge Range of Use- Absolutely Stable
• Powerful
• Easy Unhooking Abilities
• 4-Line Kite with 5th Line Ability

Bar

The NKB Trust bar 5th Element is the most progressive and effective tool to steer your kite and comes equipped with the most functional safety system in kiting, the IRON HEART IV. The Iron heart IV fulfills the challenging French safety norm and offers the best possible safety even in the most extreme conditions. The release forces are remarkably low, providing the highest level of safety in emergency situations. For 2012, the entire bar has been completely re-designed, without losing proven features like the roto-head, the sliding stopper with stopper ball and adjustable winding posts. The small and lightweight vario cleat helps to adjust the Trust Bar in any situation quickly and easily. The new upgraded ergonomic bar grip improves comfort and all features of the 2012 Trust Bar are redefined with an aim on the highest functionality and easiest handling, even in challenging circumstances.

Windrange

Kite

The Evo is quiet possibly the most versatile kite in the North range; a crossover kite 

Test conditions

Wind: 18-22 knots

water: flat, chop, small waves

Detail Photos

Conclusion

We have tested the Evo, Fuse and Neo at the same time. We found that the Evo is a more user friendly kite compared to the Neo, which has a specific character.
In comparison to the North Fuse, the Evo is completely different in flight character. The Evo specifically has more bar pressure and a smaller turning circle (center turn). The Evo’s qualities are most suited to beginners, since it gives a solid amount of feedback and stability and has a gradual power buildup. This should really give a beginner some confidence!
The Evo’s wave characteristics have changed a bit in 2012. It now provides a more constant pull when compared to the 2011 version, since it now placed more deeply in the wind window. This enables you to fly it smaller. Also, its drift during a wave ride has been improved. On the other hand however, the Evo’s lift has been reduced. If you desire a wave kite with more lift and an old school floating performance, the North Fuse might also be an option!