Review North Evo 2011

Kite

North's 4/5 line allround delta kite

Designers Goals

The North Evo has gone through quite an Evolution from the time it was introduced in 2008.  Where it began as a beginner kite in 2008, the 2011 Evo was designed as a one-pump all-rounder.
To enable the rider to see what to expect from a kite North uses a kite compass, which gives you a quick overview of the general characteristics.

Using the Compass, the Evo shows strong stability (light blue) and good all-round performance by scoring high on many other characteristics.
The Evo tries to combine the ease of use and depower of a hybrid kite with the unhooked characteristics of a C-Shape kite. The Evo should provide basics like an easy relaunch, stability and gradual predictable power buildup and a good low-end. The larger sizes in particular should perform well in low-wind conditions.

Bar

Still one step ahead, the fifth edition of our tried and tested 5th Element Bar is possibly the most effective and trustworthy safety system on the market. 2010 nearly any Kiteboarding magazine declared it the test winner. The Iron Heart VI requires minimal release forces and is not affected by harsh sand and saltwater conditions. The double de-power line in combination with the Sliding Stopper and Stopper Ball ensures that the bar is always where you want it to be in all situations. Our small, lightweight Vario Cleat allows you to quickly and easily adjust it to your desired de-power stroke while the system automatically trims your lines to the perfect length. If the dangling trim line has ever interfered with your flow in the past, you can now forget about it focus on your riding: Simply Velcro the dangling portion to the stopper ball so it’s never in your way. The Micro Loop is no longer an integrated feature, but for those who like the comfort of riding with fixed power, the system can quickly and easily be fitted.
Riders of all skill levels, from newcomers to pros, will benefit from the simplicity and functionality of the new 5th Element Bar Trust Bar and Iron Heart IV.

D2 special canopy material

What is the kite for?

Stability and all-round characteristics are prevalent in the 2011 North Evo (light blue). According to the designers the Evo performs well on a number of characteristics. The Evo promises ease of use and depower ability of a hybrid kite combined with the unhooked characteristics of a C-Shape.  Basics like the easy re-launch stability and predictable power buildup are complimented by a good low-end.  The larger sizes in particular should perform very well in low-wind conditions.

2011 Evo detail pictures

Conclusion

Soon after we started testing we noticed that the Evo 2011 has changed from the 2010 model. It offers more performance, is more explosive, has more de-power and positions itself closer to the edge of the wind window. The feedback through the steering lines and the small turning circle has remained.

The long depower stroke of the 2010 Evo has been replaced by a shorter stroke, so it is easier for wave riders and riders with short arms. This shorter stroke, however, does give it a different feeling than last years model.
The 2011 model is a bit less stable than its predecessor.  The loss in stability was caused by the change in profile.  This change, however, does offer more range and more depower. Don’t worry, the kite will not drop from the sky in gusty conditions, it is still extremely stable.

The canopy has been made of a new material called D2.  Because the material will stretch less the kite is supposed to be more durable, but only time will tell if this is true. The 2011 Evo comes with a one pump system.

The 2011 Evo will appeal to advanced riders because of the explosiveness and the abundance in pop and control.  Compared to the 2010 model you will get a better high end and therefore a larger wind range.
The change in profile changed the way this kite feels.  Give the 2011 Evo a try and feel the facelift!