2025 Ozone Kites R1 V5 Kite
After a full four year development cycle and over 50 prototypes, the all new R1 V5 has shed any hint of freeride DNA to become an all-out, pure hydrofoil racing machine.
Capable of the highest speeds at super aggressive riding angles, as well as the most efficient transitions when fractions of a second count, all elements of the new design help to ensure you maintain as much momentum as possible in all situations.
R1 V5 – PURE RACE PERFORMANCE
Capable of the highest speeds at super aggressive riding angles, as well as the most efficient transitions when fractions of a second count, all elements of the new design help to ensure you maintain as much momentum as possible in all situations.
- IKA Formula Kite registered product for 2028 Olympic cycle
- Designed purely for hydrofoil racing performance
- 2 and 4 line designs in the range
- Incredible angles and riding speed up- and downwind
- Low lift overhead allowing for high speed and super fluid tacking manoeuvres
- Light bar feeling / steering pressure helps save riding energy
WARNING
We highly recommend packing the kite away using the concertina method in order to prolong its life. If you can’t do straight after your session, pack it away as carefully as you can, and remember to re-pack it in the concertina method when convenient. Do not store your kite with the Leading Edge battens deformed.
FEATURES
Factory Ownership Advantage
Ozone uniquely owns its own factory where all kites, wings, boards, hydrofoils, paragliders, speed wings and accessories are made. Guaranteeing hand checked quality control and the finest materials at every step, there are also excellent working conditions for all 1000 employees.
Designed With OZ-CAD
The future is now. All Ozone kite and wings are designed with our own highly advanced custom built CAD software that we control and modify with each new product design. Allowing for specifically tailored technical developments, our designers can maximise performance while also minimising waste.
High Performance Ultra Light Materials R1V5
High quality Ultra Light materials have been used extensively on our Kites and Paragliders since 2011. Using Ultra Light materials translates to true performance increases - the kite inflates quicker, flies faster and is more reactive even in the lightest breeze.
Triple Transverse Sail Shaping (sizes 10m to 21m)
The Leading Edge on sizes 10m to 21m features Triple Transverse Sail Shaping creating a cleaner surface on the most important area of the aerofoil. The result is less turbulent airflow and longer skin adhesion, which positively effects the lift to drag ratio increasing overall performance.
Leading Edge Profile Battens
The Leading Edge is reinforced with flexible lightweight plastic battens to maintain the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
Rigifoil Battens
Rigifoil battens are sewn in between the leading edge profile battens to help maintain optimal leading edge profile shape at high speeds. Preventing the cloth from denting between the ribs, the leading edge section is now as clean as it would be if there were twice as many ribs, without actually adding the complexity of full length ribs.
Chord Profile Battens
On sizes 10m through to 21m the chord profile is reinforced with lightweight fibreglass battens to distribute load whilst maintaining the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
Mini Ribs
Mini Ribs are sewn into the centre of each cell along the trailing edge of all sizes. These are designed to minimise the ‘ballooning’ deformation effect of the trailing edge, creating a cleaner surface for the air to release from the airfoil.
Optimised Leading Edge Air Intakes
The Leading Edge air intakes have been refined for faster progressive inflation, improved seal and optimised positioning to maintain internal air pressure. This enhances land and water re-launch capabilities.
Internal Diagonals and Straps
Internal span-wise straps work in unison with optimized diagonal ribs, distributing load from the bridles evenly and effectively. This increases the internal structural balance, while allowing the top and bottom surfaces to maintain the designed profile without being distorted from indirect tension or loads.
High Cell Count
A high number of cells controls ballooning between the ribs, holding the wing shape and designed surfaces smoother and more accurately. This reduces turbulent airflow, providing more efficiency, speed and de-power for increased overall performance.
High Performance Bridle Lines
High performance low drag Technora bridle lines are a key component to the R1’s outstanding performance. Technora line is ultra strong with unbeaten stretch and shrinkage characteristics to maintain the highest performance trim.
4-line Speed System (sizes 8m and 9m)
The 4-Line Speed System on R1 V5 sizes 8m and 9m is lightweight and low drag using reduced line diameters and features incredibly simple adjustment via the stream line self-locking Splice Trim System. Durable line materials reduce wear and tear on the pulley lines, with increased resistance to stretch or shrinkage for a longer life span. The Speed System is a double pulley layout using high spec low friction and low profile Allen Tii pulleys. NOTE: Watch the How To video before adjusting your Speed System settings.
2-line Speed System (sizes 10m to 21m)
The 2-Line Speed System on R1 V5 sizes 10m to 21m is lightweight and low drag using reduced line diameters. Durable line materials reduce wear and tear on the pulley lines, with increased resistance to stretch or shrinkage for a longer life span. The Speed System is a single pulley layout using high spec low friction and low profile Allen Tii pulleys.
Waterproof deflation zipper
Intelligently positioned for easy deflation and pack down.
Tuned Bridle Geometry
We work extensively during our R&D process to develop the size range to feel in tune with each other. Every kite has a unique bridle layout, individually tested and fine-tuned to maximize the feeling and performance.
Fool proof line connectors
Fool proof line connectors prevent incorrect rigging of the flying lines to the kite.
R1 V5 Compressor Bag
Designed for a secure packing process that preserves batten profile shapes. Crafted from lightweight, durable materials including breathable mesh lining and equipped with internal compression clips it minimizes weight and packing size.
Featuring an outside stash pocket for spares and an inside bar pocket to shield your kite, it prioritizes functionality. With a long, adjustable shoulder strap and a simple carry handle, transporting your gear to the spot is effortless and comfortable. The R1 V5 must be packed using the concertina method; refer to the R1 V5 How to Pack video for guidance.
“The aim of redesigning the R1V5 was to find the absolute best race course performance. Each size has been designed with focus on controlled performance and specific needs. I’m sure the R1V5 will exceed the expectations of all riders who want to push their limits to the top!”
AXEL MAZELLA, OZONE TEST TEAM RIDER AND WORLD TOUR ATHLETE
COMMITTED PERFORMANCE
Every aspect of the R1 V5 design is focused on maximising true race performance with low overhead lift. The potential momentum loss through tacks is now absolutely minimal for pro level racers.
The faster you can ride, the more the kite wants to go upwind and, as it does so, feels lighter and easier to control at the same time.
Tuned to navigate courses with more efficiency and control allows the conservation of energy that could make all the difference to results across long days packed with multiple races.
Finding your “sweet spot” in a locked-in race position is intuitive and easy with the ability to play with angles or speed depending on your lines and tactics.
“Quite simply, the R1 V5 is speed made easy! You can really focus on the race, rather than what the kite is doing.
“This kite pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with a 2 line set-up, while also keeping the kite’s intuitive handling. I can safely say that I’ve never been as fast with so much confidence, including on the new and improved 8 and 9m models, which remain as 4-line set-ups, providing more fun and control when the wind is 30+ knots.
“I am so excited to get this kite on the racecourse and see the sport pushed to new heights!”
CONNOR BAINBRIDGE, OZONE TEST TEAM RIDER AND WORLD TOUR ATHLETE
RIDER WEIGHT OPTIMISED SIZING
Riders can register 4 kites in their quiver for each IKA race event. The biggest kite allowed in men’s racing is 21m, while for the women it’s 19m. Both sexes can then choose one size from each of the remaining size groupings to make up their 4-kite event quiver: 15/14, 11/10, 9/8m.
Our decision to create an 8-size range gives riders who aren’t carrying as much body weight the option to choose to ride with slightly less power in the 4 sizes they can register for each event
The men nearly always opt for the biggest sizes possible and use their added weight and strength to take advantage of the extra power – so their quiver for an event would usually be: 21, 15, 11 & 9m.
But for women, or more lightweight riders, we’ve added in the 14, 10 and 8m sizes as further options to help all racers make the best choice for their weight or style.
TRUE 2-LINE TECH WITH REDUCED LINE PLAN
The 10, 11, 14, 15, 19 and 21 metre sizes (all with 65 cells) now feature true 2-line technology with only A and B line levels. Less bridling means less drag, allowing the kite to drive further forward in the window for greater speed and higher angle potential.
Reducing the line levels to only A and B along the chord, in combination with a highly complex internal structure to distribute loads, the R1 V5 features the least amount of total bridle line length we’ve ever used on a foil kite.
The thinnest and strongest Technora bridle line material on all sizes further contributes to overall drag reduction.
(All new R1 V5 kites now come with the MK2 bridle set, tuned for even greater racing performance).
CHORDWISE FIBREGLASS BATTENS ON 2-LINE SIZES
(10, 11, 14, 15, 19, 21m)
On sizes 10m through to 21m the chord profile is reinforced with lightweight fibreglass battens to distribute load whilst maintaining the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
SMALL SIZES RETAIN 4-LINE SET-UP FOR STRONGER, GUSTIER CONDITIONS
The smallest 8m and 9m sizes have retained 4-line levels (A, B, C & brake) using a different planform with lower aspect-ratio and cell count (51 cells) based on previous well-proven R1 designs.
When nuking conditions strike and it’s time for ‘survival mode’, four lines with a more active feel of sheeting input offers maximum stability and control.
PROFILE DEVELOPMENT
New profile sections were especially developed for 2-liner technology.
While we kept the cell count and planform very similar to the V4 design, we extensively focused on maximising the potential of the profile section of each size to work in harmony with the 2-line bridle layout.
Analized in CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations and tested under real competition conditions by the world’s leading racers, we worked on creating the least lift possible at the lowest angle-of-attack – especially when moving the kite up and overhead during tacks.
Expert riders will now make their manoeuvres with a more fluid motion, allowing them to come out of transitions at high speed with very little lost momentum.
Yet the R1 V5 also delivers constant pull on up- and downwind angles, is capable of being ridden at more aggressive angles and with greater speed, while still feeling stable in dirty, gusty winds.
The end result is a racer’s dream – giving the confidence to take the biggest kite size possible for maximum straight line speed and the highest angles, without feeling compromised during manoeuvres.
LEADING EDGE PROFILE BATTENS
The Leading Edge is reinforced with flexible lightweight plastic battens to maintain the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
RIGIFOIL TECHNOLOGY
Rigifoil battens are sewn in between the leading edge profile battens to maintain optimal profile shape at high speeds.
Preventing the canopy material from indenting between the ribs, the leading edge section is now as clean as it would be if there were twice as many ribs, without actually adding the complexity of full length ribs.
(For the perfect performance-to-weight ratio, the 19 and 21 metre models feature Rigifoils only to the last inflation valve towards the tip. Not adding the rigifoils to the tip sections of these two biggest sizes reduces the chance for the tips to roll / fold in during very light wind manoeuvres.)
MINI RIBS
Mini Ribs are sewn into the centre of each cell along the trailing edge of all sizes. These are designed to minimise the ‘ballooning’ deformation effect of the trailing edge, creating a cleaner surface for the air to release from the airfoil.
PROVEN, LIGHTWEIGHT CANOPY MATERIALS
As on the V4, the best performance balance for weight, feeling and longevity comes from a 20D (35g) upper and a 10D (27g) lower surface canopy material. These materials have been used extensively on our Ultra Light kites and paragliders since 2011.
TRIPLE TRANSVERSE SAIL SHAPING
Triple Transverse Sail Shaping on sizes 10m-21m running along the leading edge creates a cleaner surface on the most important area of the aerofoil. The result is less turbulent airflow and longer skin adhesion, which positively affects the lift-to-drag ratio, increasing overall performance.
NEW VALVE DESIGN
Finally, faster inflation and a better seal are the important finishing touches offered by the new valve design.
DESIGNER’S NOTES: By Dom Zimmermann
“After four years we are very proud and excited with the final result of the R1 V5 for the 2028 Olympic cycle. Working on a high performance project is always special – thrilling and nerve wracking at the same time.
“Reducing to 2 line levels was new territory for us in terms of kites. Our colleagues in the Ozone paragliding department, however, released the first 2-line paraglider over a decade ago (though they are using brake lines along the trailing edge). Consulting designers, Luc, Dav and Fred, with all their gathered experience, greatly helped us come up with the ultimate true 2-liner kite design for the R1 V5.
“Additionally, we teamed up with Romain Lambert who spent his 2023 internship at ISAE (University for Aeronautics in Toulouse) and helped to analyse profile sections in CFD simulations. These studies were crucial in setting direction for the profile sections and, at a later stage, refining them to our needs.
“On the front line in real world testing, we were delighted to once again work with some of the best racers in the world, who helped with testing, trimming and feedback, as well as trying both our good and bad ideas with equal enthusiasm. Putting so much effort and commitment into the project was just mind blowing. Our sincere respect and thanks to Axel Mazella, Connor Bainbridge and Nico Parlier – you guys rock!
“We are confident that we’ve pulled all the strings possible to create a kite that will impact the race course results around the world and in the 2028 Olympic games.”
IMPORTANT NOTES:
– The R1 V5 is for advanced riders only who have previous high performance foil kite experience. There are specific techniques required to handle and fly this kite.
– The R1 V5 materials have been used extensively on our Ultra Light kites and paragliders since 2011. The kite must be carefully looked after, it needs an experienced rider who knows how to keep the kite up in the air and how to handle it gently on the ground.
– Due to the 2-line design the water relaunch is compromised, depending on the wind strength, the overall conditions and a rider’s skills. We recommend that you keep it flying and out of the water if possible! A drainage system on the wing tip allows any water that may have entered the kite to drain out. Do not use the kite in waves.
– This kite features a simple yet effective front line flag out release. After releasing the flag out you should check the speed system, bridle lines and your flying lines for twists before restart.
– The R1 V5 must be packed using the concertina method exclusively. Packing and storing the kite using any other method (e.g. rolling, folding) will void the warranty. The reinforcement battens are integral to the design and must not be manipulated out of their intended shape, as this could damage the battens and/or kite, compromising its stability and performance.
– Bridle lines and Speed Systems require maintenance just like any high performance equipment in racing sports – they must be checked regularly and maintained in the correct trim or the kite will not perform as designed.
– Bridle Lines that are worn or not to factory specification (+ or – 15mm) must be replaced.
– R1 V5 4-Line Speed System lines that are worn must be replaced. If the Speed System lines are not worn but are not to factory specifications you must adjust back to factory spec.
– R1 V5 2-Line Speed System lines that are worn or are not to factory specifications must be replaced. There is no adjustment on the 2-Line Speed System.
2025 Ozone Kites R1 V5 Kite
After a full four year development cycle and over 50 prototypes, the all new R1 V5 has shed any hint of freeride DNA to become an all-out, pure hydrofoil racing machine.
Capable of the highest speeds at super aggressive riding angles, as well as the most efficient transitions when fractions of a second count, all elements of the new design help to ensure you maintain as much momentum as possible in all situations.
R1 V5 – PURE RACE PERFORMANCE
Capable of the highest speeds at super aggressive riding angles, as well as the most efficient transitions when fractions of a second count, all elements of the new design help to ensure you maintain as much momentum as possible in all situations.
- IKA Formula Kite registered product for 2028 Olympic cycle
- Designed purely for hydrofoil racing performance
- 2 and 4 line designs in the range
- Incredible angles and riding speed up- and downwind
- Low lift overhead allowing for high speed and super fluid tacking manoeuvres
- Light bar feeling / steering pressure helps save riding energy
WARNING
We highly recommend packing the kite away using the concertina method in order to prolong its life. If you can’t do straight after your session, pack it away as carefully as you can, and remember to re-pack it in the concertina method when convenient. Do not store your kite with the Leading Edge battens deformed.
FEATURES
Factory Ownership Advantage
Ozone uniquely owns its own factory where all kites, wings, boards, hydrofoils, paragliders, speed wings and accessories are made. Guaranteeing hand checked quality control and the finest materials at every step, there are also excellent working conditions for all 1000 employees.
Designed With OZ-CAD
The future is now. All Ozone kite and wings are designed with our own highly advanced custom built CAD software that we control and modify with each new product design. Allowing for specifically tailored technical developments, our designers can maximise performance while also minimising waste.
High Performance Ultra Light Materials R1V5
High quality Ultra Light materials have been used extensively on our Kites and Paragliders since 2011. Using Ultra Light materials translates to true performance increases - the kite inflates quicker, flies faster and is more reactive even in the lightest breeze.
Triple Transverse Sail Shaping (sizes 10m to 21m)
The Leading Edge on sizes 10m to 21m features Triple Transverse Sail Shaping creating a cleaner surface on the most important area of the aerofoil. The result is less turbulent airflow and longer skin adhesion, which positively effects the lift to drag ratio increasing overall performance.
Leading Edge Profile Battens
The Leading Edge is reinforced with flexible lightweight plastic battens to maintain the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
Rigifoil Battens
Rigifoil battens are sewn in between the leading edge profile battens to help maintain optimal leading edge profile shape at high speeds. Preventing the cloth from denting between the ribs, the leading edge section is now as clean as it would be if there were twice as many ribs, without actually adding the complexity of full length ribs.
Chord Profile Battens
On sizes 10m through to 21m the chord profile is reinforced with lightweight fibreglass battens to distribute load whilst maintaining the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
Mini Ribs
Mini Ribs are sewn into the centre of each cell along the trailing edge of all sizes. These are designed to minimise the ‘ballooning’ deformation effect of the trailing edge, creating a cleaner surface for the air to release from the airfoil.
Optimised Leading Edge Air Intakes
The Leading Edge air intakes have been refined for faster progressive inflation, improved seal and optimised positioning to maintain internal air pressure. This enhances land and water re-launch capabilities.
Internal Diagonals and Straps
Internal span-wise straps work in unison with optimized diagonal ribs, distributing load from the bridles evenly and effectively. This increases the internal structural balance, while allowing the top and bottom surfaces to maintain the designed profile without being distorted from indirect tension or loads.
High Cell Count
A high number of cells controls ballooning between the ribs, holding the wing shape and designed surfaces smoother and more accurately. This reduces turbulent airflow, providing more efficiency, speed and de-power for increased overall performance.
High Performance Bridle Lines
High performance low drag Technora bridle lines are a key component to the R1’s outstanding performance. Technora line is ultra strong with unbeaten stretch and shrinkage characteristics to maintain the highest performance trim.
4-line Speed System (sizes 8m and 9m)
The 4-Line Speed System on R1 V5 sizes 8m and 9m is lightweight and low drag using reduced line diameters and features incredibly simple adjustment via the stream line self-locking Splice Trim System. Durable line materials reduce wear and tear on the pulley lines, with increased resistance to stretch or shrinkage for a longer life span. The Speed System is a double pulley layout using high spec low friction and low profile Allen Tii pulleys. NOTE: Watch the How To video before adjusting your Speed System settings.
2-line Speed System (sizes 10m to 21m)
The 2-Line Speed System on R1 V5 sizes 10m to 21m is lightweight and low drag using reduced line diameters. Durable line materials reduce wear and tear on the pulley lines, with increased resistance to stretch or shrinkage for a longer life span. The Speed System is a single pulley layout using high spec low friction and low profile Allen Tii pulleys.
Waterproof deflation zipper
Intelligently positioned for easy deflation and pack down.
Tuned Bridle Geometry
We work extensively during our R&D process to develop the size range to feel in tune with each other. Every kite has a unique bridle layout, individually tested and fine-tuned to maximize the feeling and performance.
Fool proof line connectors
Fool proof line connectors prevent incorrect rigging of the flying lines to the kite.
R1 V5 Compressor Bag
Designed for a secure packing process that preserves batten profile shapes. Crafted from lightweight, durable materials including breathable mesh lining and equipped with internal compression clips it minimizes weight and packing size.
Featuring an outside stash pocket for spares and an inside bar pocket to shield your kite, it prioritizes functionality. With a long, adjustable shoulder strap and a simple carry handle, transporting your gear to the spot is effortless and comfortable. The R1 V5 must be packed using the concertina method; refer to the R1 V5 How to Pack video for guidance.
“The aim of redesigning the R1V5 was to find the absolute best race course performance. Each size has been designed with focus on controlled performance and specific needs. I’m sure the R1V5 will exceed the expectations of all riders who want to push their limits to the top!”
AXEL MAZELLA, OZONE TEST TEAM RIDER AND WORLD TOUR ATHLETE
COMMITTED PERFORMANCE
Every aspect of the R1 V5 design is focused on maximising true race performance with low overhead lift. The potential momentum loss through tacks is now absolutely minimal for pro level racers.
The faster you can ride, the more the kite wants to go upwind and, as it does so, feels lighter and easier to control at the same time.
Tuned to navigate courses with more efficiency and control allows the conservation of energy that could make all the difference to results across long days packed with multiple races.
Finding your “sweet spot” in a locked-in race position is intuitive and easy with the ability to play with angles or speed depending on your lines and tactics.
“Quite simply, the R1 V5 is speed made easy! You can really focus on the race, rather than what the kite is doing.
“This kite pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with a 2 line set-up, while also keeping the kite’s intuitive handling. I can safely say that I’ve never been as fast with so much confidence, including on the new and improved 8 and 9m models, which remain as 4-line set-ups, providing more fun and control when the wind is 30+ knots.
“I am so excited to get this kite on the racecourse and see the sport pushed to new heights!”
CONNOR BAINBRIDGE, OZONE TEST TEAM RIDER AND WORLD TOUR ATHLETE
RIDER WEIGHT OPTIMISED SIZING
Riders can register 4 kites in their quiver for each IKA race event. The biggest kite allowed in men’s racing is 21m, while for the women it’s 19m. Both sexes can then choose one size from each of the remaining size groupings to make up their 4-kite event quiver: 15/14, 11/10, 9/8m.
Our decision to create an 8-size range gives riders who aren’t carrying as much body weight the option to choose to ride with slightly less power in the 4 sizes they can register for each event
The men nearly always opt for the biggest sizes possible and use their added weight and strength to take advantage of the extra power – so their quiver for an event would usually be: 21, 15, 11 & 9m.
But for women, or more lightweight riders, we’ve added in the 14, 10 and 8m sizes as further options to help all racers make the best choice for their weight or style.
TRUE 2-LINE TECH WITH REDUCED LINE PLAN
The 10, 11, 14, 15, 19 and 21 metre sizes (all with 65 cells) now feature true 2-line technology with only A and B line levels. Less bridling means less drag, allowing the kite to drive further forward in the window for greater speed and higher angle potential.
Reducing the line levels to only A and B along the chord, in combination with a highly complex internal structure to distribute loads, the R1 V5 features the least amount of total bridle line length we’ve ever used on a foil kite.
The thinnest and strongest Technora bridle line material on all sizes further contributes to overall drag reduction.
(All new R1 V5 kites now come with the MK2 bridle set, tuned for even greater racing performance).
CHORDWISE FIBREGLASS BATTENS ON 2-LINE SIZES
(10, 11, 14, 15, 19, 21m)
On sizes 10m through to 21m the chord profile is reinforced with lightweight fibreglass battens to distribute load whilst maintaining the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
SMALL SIZES RETAIN 4-LINE SET-UP FOR STRONGER, GUSTIER CONDITIONS
The smallest 8m and 9m sizes have retained 4-line levels (A, B, C & brake) using a different planform with lower aspect-ratio and cell count (51 cells) based on previous well-proven R1 designs.
When nuking conditions strike and it’s time for ‘survival mode’, four lines with a more active feel of sheeting input offers maximum stability and control.
PROFILE DEVELOPMENT
New profile sections were especially developed for 2-liner technology.
While we kept the cell count and planform very similar to the V4 design, we extensively focused on maximising the potential of the profile section of each size to work in harmony with the 2-line bridle layout.
Analized in CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations and tested under real competition conditions by the world’s leading racers, we worked on creating the least lift possible at the lowest angle-of-attack – especially when moving the kite up and overhead during tacks.
Expert riders will now make their manoeuvres with a more fluid motion, allowing them to come out of transitions at high speed with very little lost momentum.
Yet the R1 V5 also delivers constant pull on up- and downwind angles, is capable of being ridden at more aggressive angles and with greater speed, while still feeling stable in dirty, gusty winds.
The end result is a racer’s dream – giving the confidence to take the biggest kite size possible for maximum straight line speed and the highest angles, without feeling compromised during manoeuvres.
LEADING EDGE PROFILE BATTENS
The Leading Edge is reinforced with flexible lightweight plastic battens to maintain the shape of the profile during angle of attack changes and turbulent airflow. This drastically improves overall performance as the foil remains true to the designed shape.
RIGIFOIL TECHNOLOGY
Rigifoil battens are sewn in between the leading edge profile battens to maintain optimal profile shape at high speeds.
Preventing the canopy material from indenting between the ribs, the leading edge section is now as clean as it would be if there were twice as many ribs, without actually adding the complexity of full length ribs.
(For the perfect performance-to-weight ratio, the 19 and 21 metre models feature Rigifoils only to the last inflation valve towards the tip. Not adding the rigifoils to the tip sections of these two biggest sizes reduces the chance for the tips to roll / fold in during very light wind manoeuvres.)
MINI RIBS
Mini Ribs are sewn into the centre of each cell along the trailing edge of all sizes. These are designed to minimise the ‘ballooning’ deformation effect of the trailing edge, creating a cleaner surface for the air to release from the airfoil.
PROVEN, LIGHTWEIGHT CANOPY MATERIALS
As on the V4, the best performance balance for weight, feeling and longevity comes from a 20D (35g) upper and a 10D (27g) lower surface canopy material. These materials have been used extensively on our Ultra Light kites and paragliders since 2011.
TRIPLE TRANSVERSE SAIL SHAPING
Triple Transverse Sail Shaping on sizes 10m-21m running along the leading edge creates a cleaner surface on the most important area of the aerofoil. The result is less turbulent airflow and longer skin adhesion, which positively affects the lift-to-drag ratio, increasing overall performance.
NEW VALVE DESIGN
Finally, faster inflation and a better seal are the important finishing touches offered by the new valve design.
DESIGNER’S NOTES: By Dom Zimmermann
“After four years we are very proud and excited with the final result of the R1 V5 for the 2028 Olympic cycle. Working on a high performance project is always special – thrilling and nerve wracking at the same time.
“Reducing to 2 line levels was new territory for us in terms of kites. Our colleagues in the Ozone paragliding department, however, released the first 2-line paraglider over a decade ago (though they are using brake lines along the trailing edge). Consulting designers, Luc, Dav and Fred, with all their gathered experience, greatly helped us come up with the ultimate true 2-liner kite design for the R1 V5.
“Additionally, we teamed up with Romain Lambert who spent his 2023 internship at ISAE (University for Aeronautics in Toulouse) and helped to analyse profile sections in CFD simulations. These studies were crucial in setting direction for the profile sections and, at a later stage, refining them to our needs.
“On the front line in real world testing, we were delighted to once again work with some of the best racers in the world, who helped with testing, trimming and feedback, as well as trying both our good and bad ideas with equal enthusiasm. Putting so much effort and commitment into the project was just mind blowing. Our sincere respect and thanks to Axel Mazella, Connor Bainbridge and Nico Parlier – you guys rock!
“We are confident that we’ve pulled all the strings possible to create a kite that will impact the race course results around the world and in the 2028 Olympic games.”
IMPORTANT NOTES:
– The R1 V5 is for advanced riders only who have previous high performance foil kite experience. There are specific techniques required to handle and fly this kite.
– The R1 V5 materials have been used extensively on our Ultra Light kites and paragliders since 2011. The kite must be carefully looked after, it needs an experienced rider who knows how to keep the kite up in the air and how to handle it gently on the ground.
– Due to the 2-line design the water relaunch is compromised, depending on the wind strength, the overall conditions and a rider’s skills. We recommend that you keep it flying and out of the water if possible! A drainage system on the wing tip allows any water that may have entered the kite to drain out. Do not use the kite in waves.
– This kite features a simple yet effective front line flag out release. After releasing the flag out you should check the speed system, bridle lines and your flying lines for twists before restart.
– The R1 V5 must be packed using the concertina method exclusively. Packing and storing the kite using any other method (e.g. rolling, folding) will void the warranty. The reinforcement battens are integral to the design and must not be manipulated out of their intended shape, as this could damage the battens and/or kite, compromising its stability and performance.
– Bridle lines and Speed Systems require maintenance just like any high performance equipment in racing sports – they must be checked regularly and maintained in the correct trim or the kite will not perform as designed.
– Bridle Lines that are worn or not to factory specification (+ or – 15mm) must be replaced.
– R1 V5 4-Line Speed System lines that are worn must be replaced. If the Speed System lines are not worn but are not to factory specifications you must adjust back to factory spec.
– R1 V5 2-Line Speed System lines that are worn or are not to factory specifications must be replaced. There is no adjustment on the 2-Line Speed System.