Beginners → The 5th line
Before reading this page be sure to acquaint yourself with our safety chapter.
Wherever you may go and hear something about kites, the term ''5th line'' is always mentioned. We shall explain here what the 5th line is and what its good/useful for.
Whatever happens, you always have the option of reducing the kites power to near zero by pulling on the safety system. The steering beam will pull away from you (assuming that you are properly attached to the kite with your leash, the kite will remain fastened to you with the 5th line only) and the kite will be completely de-powered and fall down without tangling up the lines.
Relaunching your kite from the water
The 5th line will help you relaunch the kite by yourself without swimming towards the kite. In a situation where the kite is resting on the water surface on its edge, simply pull the 5th line towards you to make the kite ''fall on its back'', while simultaneosly pulling one of the rear lines. The kite will slowly start moving towards the wind window and will eventually take off (as shown on the photos below).
Kite power and performance
The 5th line stabilizes the ''arc'', thereby increasing the kites performance. By shortening the 5th line, you will alter the shape of the kite so that it will catch less wind and be depowered. By adjusting the 5th line you can noticeably increase the windreach of the kite.
NB! All of the above applies to North Rebel and Rhino kites, but also to most other modern kites. Be sure to consult the users manual that came with your kite.