Liquid Force TENSION User manual

TENSION 4-Line Kite Manual
Warnings and safety precautions
Read the following points before assembling your kite

Contents
02 Safety Check List
04 Package List
05 Kite Assembly
08 Wind Reference Guide
09 Setup and Storage
10 Repair
11 Warranty Policy
WARNINGS AND
SAFETY CHECK LIST
Warning:
1)Kite flying can be dangerous.
2)Always use extreme caution when using this product.
3)Misuse of this product can cause serious injury or death.
4)Only use this product if you are in good physical health.
5)Never act in a careless manner when using this product (such as
jumping in the air or tying yourself to as tree to get airborne).
6)You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others
around you when using this product.
Use Caution with Flying Lines
1)Never touch the flying lines when the kite is in use. Flying lines
are extremely sharp while under tension and can cause serious
injury or death.
2)Never use this product with worn lines. A line that breaks while
under tension can cause serious injury or death.
3)Always check your flying lines for knots before each use. Knots
greatly reduce the strength of the lines.
4)Stay away from tangled flying lines unless the kite is secured to
the ground. An unsecured kite can self launch unexpectedly, and
cause serious injury or death.
5)Never allow yourself, or anyone else, to get between the control
bar and the kite when using this product.
Choose Safe Weather Conditions
1)Never learn to use this product in more than 10 knots of wind.
2)Never use this product in high winds.
3)Never use this product in thunder and lightning conditions.
4)Only use this product when you can remain in a standing position.
5)Never use this product in wind conditions that are above your
ability level.
6)Never use this product near water or in offshore wind conditions
unless you are an expert swimmer.
Choose a Safe Location
1)Always observe local rules and regulations before using this
product.
2)Never use this product near power lines, telephone poles, trees,
bushes, roads, automobiles, or airports. Liquid Force Tension User Guide 02

3)Only use this product when you have 100 meters of clear space
downwind, and on both sides of your launching position. The
power of the kite can pull you downwind unexpectedly and with
great force.
4)Do not fly your kite over other people or pets. Spectators should
always remain behind you when using this product.
5)Never use this product on crowded beaches or fields.
6)Never use this product near the water unless you know how to
swim and are in good physical health.
7)Always practice launching and landing procedures and
self-rescue techniques before using this product near the water.
Important Safety Rules
1)This product is not a personal flotation device. Always wear a
coast guard approved personal flotation device when using this
product near the water.
2)Always have a partner when launching and landing your kite.
3)Always learn to use a small sized, two line stunt kite (one meter
or smaller) before attempting to use this product for the first time.
4)Never allow anyone who is not familiar with traction kiting to use
this product without experienced assistance.
5)Never use this system without a wrist leash system. An
unsecured kite is extremely dangerous to everyone downwind of
you.
6)The wrist leash system is not a permanent attachment to this
product. Never permanently attach yourself to the kite or any of
its components.
7)Always wear a helmet, gloves, shoes, and protective eyewear
when using this product.
Release of Liability, Claim Waiver and
Assumption of Risk Agreement
By inflating the leading edge and assembling this product, you are
agreeing to:
1) Be bound to the terms set forth below and
2) Require anyone using this product to be bound by such terms. If
you are unwilling to be bound by these terms, return this product
(before use) for a full refund.
Assumption of risk
Use of this product and any of its components involves
certain inherent risks, dangers, and hazards, which can result in
serious personal injury or death. In using this product you may
freely agree to assume and accept all known and unknown risks of
injury while using this equipment. The risks inherent in this sport
can be greatly reduced by abiding by the warning guidelines listed
in the users guide and by using common sense.
Release of waiver and claims agreement
In consideration of the sale of this product to you, hereby
agree to the fullest extent permitted by law as follows:
To waive any and all claims That you have or may in the
future have against liquid force kiteboards, or any of its agents,
resulting from use of this product and any of its components.
To release Liquid Force Kiteboards, or any of its agents, from
any and all liability for any loss, damage, injury, or expense that you
or any users of this product may suffer, as a result of the use of this
product, due to any cause whatsoever, including negligence or
breach of contract on the part of liquid force kiteboards, or any of its
agents, in the design or manufacture of this product.
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 03

Centerline Leash
Powerstrap
Spreader Bar
Trimmer Loop Leash
attachment
buckle
Red Black
Harness line
Carbon Bar
Powerline
attachment
points
Powerline
attachment
points
Forward Centerline Attachment Point
-Fast turning
-Increased sheetability
-Increased windrange
-Increased response
Back Centerline Attachment Point
-Needs less bar pressure to turn
-Kite is less sensitive to bar position
-More Power goes to the spreader bar
Forward Attachment Point
-For high winds
-Kite is less responsive to bar movement,
creating more stable kite in the air
-Position for beginners or rider wanting less sensitive kite
-Great for wake style tricks
Rear Attachment Point
-Can ride using smaller bar
-More forgiving
-Fastest turning
-Preferred for wave ridding
-Less hand pressure to turn
-Greatest sheetability
-Greatest low end power
-Underpowered conditions
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 04
The Complete Four-Line Package Includes:
- 100% Carbon Control Bar
- Custom Aspect Ratio Kite Body
- Adjustable Center power strap
- De-powering Loop
- 4 Line Reduced diameter control bar with molded winders
- 1 Set 4 Line 27m Color Coded Flying Lines
- Extension Line Set With Center Line release system
- 24” Harness Line
- Large Dual Direction Kite Pump

Step 1: Inflating The Struts
1)Unroll the kite with the leading edge strut facing the direction of
the wind. The kite should be lying upside down with the body
struts facing upwards so the can be inflated(fig. 1.1)
2)It is important to hold the leading edge of kite on ground on the
windward side. You can secure the leading edge by using
sand or your foot.
3)Inflate the body struts first, then inflate the leading edge.
4)To inflate the bladder, insert the hand pump all the way into the air
valve(Fig 1.2)
5)Hold the base of the air valve with the valve cap and one end of
the velcro closure between your third and little finger(fig 1.2)
6)Pump air into the bladder until firm
7)Do not over inflate. You need just enough air to keep body struts
and leading edge under load. Over inflating can cause damage to
the bladder.
8)Do not under inflate. The kite will not self-launch if you do not
have enough air in the leading edge.
9)Pinch the valve around the base, remove the pump and insert the
cap into the air valve. Secure the Velcro closure over the valve
cap (Fig 1.3)
10)DO NOT try to push the air valve into the bladder like you would
on a beach ball. This will cause damage to the valves and
bladders.
11)Once inflated, secure your kite by laying the leading edge o the
ground facing the direction of the wind. Put sand or a heavy object
on the windward side of the kite so it will not blow away.
Step 2: Rigging your four line kite
Before You Start: When rigging your kite, make sure the front lines
are 5 inches longer than the back lines. This measurement should
be checked when the lines are stretched out all the way on the
ground, and center power adjustment strap is extended all the way.
(Diagram of rigging shown below)
Warning:
Never use a Liquid Force kite without a wrist leash system. A
loose kite is extremely dangerous for anyone downwind of you.
Fig 1.2
Fig 1.1 Fig 1.3
Centerline Leash
Powerstrap
Spreader Bar
Trimmer Loop Leash
attachment
buckle
Red Black
Harness line
Carbon Bar
Powerline
attachment
points
Powerline
attachment
points
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 05

Step 3: Lay Out the Flying Lines (This technique will ensure that
your lines are separated and free of knots.)
1)Unroll approximately 3 to 6 feet of line from the bar.
2)Hold all 4 lines in one hand and secure them with a knot to a
stationary object such as the binding of your board. (Fig. 1.4)
3)When lines are secure, hold on to your bar and walk away from
the board until the lines are completely extended.
4)At the point where your lines are fully extended, bury the bar in the
sand with the red side on your left and the black side on your right,
facing the board. (Fig. 1.5)
5)Pick up the outside lines with both hands (one line in each hand),
and step on the inside lines with each foot.
6)While holding the outside lines apart, and stepping on the inside
lines, walk toward your board.
7)Separate the lines as you go and ease out any knots. (Fig. 1.6)
8)When you reach the board, untie the lines from the binding and lay
the tips out in the following order: green and black, all green, all
red, red and black. (picture 1.7 )
Step 4: Attach The Flying Lines
1)Lay your kite upside down with the leading edge facing the
direction of the wind. (Fig 1.8)
2)Secure the kite by folding the tip over the strut and covering it with
sand. Use enough sand to hold it down in gusty conditions.
(Fig. 1.9)
3)Next, connect the flying lines to the kite as stated below.
-Red to Red
-Yellow to Yellow
-Yellow to Yellow
-Black to Black
4)IMPORTANT: Double check that no lines are crossed before
launching your kite.(Fig 1.10 and 1.11)
Fig 1.4 Fig 1.5
Fig 1.6 Fig 1.7
Fig 1.8 Fig 1.9
Fig 1.10 Fig 1.11
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 06

Step 5: Attach The Wrist Release System To Your Arm
1)The wrist release system is used in the event you are forced to let
go of the control bar to avoid danger. Upon letting go of the
control bar, the wrist release system will take hold and allow
enough slack in the flying lines that the kite will de-power itself and
fall to the ground. (Fig. 1.12)
Warning:
Letting go of the control bar in high wind conditions can cause the
wrist leash system to release from your arm. Never go further out
than you can comfortably swim back to shore. Know your
limitations and never kite in conditions beyond
your ability.
Points To Remember When Assembling Your Kite
1)Always examine the flying area for the safest
position to launch and land the kite.
2)Never leave your kite unattended while the struts are inflated. An
unattended kite can self-launch unexpectedly with great force.
3)Always check your lines for wear and tear before each flight.
Lines typically begin to show signs of wear and tear at the junction
points.
4)Do not assemble or launch your kites around sharp objects such
as, trees, bushes, and driftwood. This can cause damage to your
kite and puncture the bladders.
5)Do not over inflate the body struts. This can cause damage to the
seams of the internal bladders.
6)Do not push the air valves into the bladders like you would on a
beach ball. This will cause damage to the valve and the bladder.
7)Keep the hand pump, air valves, and the inside of the bladders
clean. Avoid contact with sand, dirt, and salt water because it can
cause damage to these items.
8)Never clean your kite with water when the air valves are open.
9)Never roll your kite up wet
Using The Center Line Adjuster
1)The 4 line kite comes with a center line power strap which will
allow you to fine tune the power of your kite while flying.
2)By pulling the black webbing toward you, the length of the front
lines are shortened reducing the power of the kite. (Fig 1.13)
3)By pulling down on the red webbing you will increase the power of
the kite by lengthening the front lines. (Fig 1.14)
4)By adjusting the length of the front lines, you will find the power
that best suits the conditions. This system, in conjunction with the
center de-powering loop system, will greatly increase the range of
your kite.
Using the Center Loop
1)The 4-line kite also features a unique center loop adjustment
system, which allows you to adjust the power of the kite with your
harness (shown on diagram)
2)To use the center loop while flying the kite, unhook from your main
harness line and pull the bar toward you. (show picture 1.15)
3)Hook into the center loop (show picture 1.16)
4)By pulling and releasing the center loop with your harness, you will be
able to increase and decrease the power of your kite. Pull in on the
center loop with your harness to de-power the kite. Use this technique
when launching and flying in gusty conditions. (Fig. 1.17)
Fig 1.12
Fig 1.13 Fig 1.14
Fig 1.15 Fig 1.16 Fig 1.17
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 07

(Center Loop diagram shown below) Understanding the wind
(look at diagrams here)
min. 100m
min. 100m30m
wind
DANGER ZONE
AVOID THIS AREA
FLYING ZONE
ZONE BETWEEN KITE AND PILOT
STAY OUT OF THIS AREA
PARTNER
ON-SHORE WINDS
OFF-SHORE WINDS
SIDE-SHORE WINDS
LAND
WATER
WIND DIRECTION
UPWIND
REACH
DOWNWIND
UPWIND
REACH
DOWNWIND
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 08

Kite size reference guide
This table is only to be used as a rough guideline when choos-
ing the correct kite for your weight. Other factors may affect your deci-
sion such as your ability level, the consistency of the wind, and the
size and volume of the board you are planning to use. It is also rec-
ommended that you chose a smaller size than is listed here if you are
planning to fly your kite in gusty conditions. This table is based on a
175 lb/80 kg person. . those who are significantly lighter in weight
should choose a kite that is one size smaller for the wind conditions,
those heavier should choose one size larger.
Setup and Storage Tips
Harness Line Setup
1)The harness line must be setup as shown to avoid unnecessary
strain on the control bar.
2)Harness lines placed too closely together will exert excessive
pressure on the control bar and may cause it to bend or break.
Carrying an Inflated Kite
1)To carry an inflated kite upwind safely, take the control bar in one
hand, grasp the kite (with the same hands) on the leading edge at
the center strut. This will allow you to control the kite while walking
upwind. ATTENTION:
Allow kite to dry before storage. Colors will bleed if kite is stored
when wet or damp.
Control Bar Winding Instructions
To avoid tangled lines, follow the instructions below before storing your
kite. (make sure to show a picture for each instruction)
1)Lay out lines in a strait line on ground and grasp control bar at
center.
2) Grasp extension lines and center lines together with the other hand.
3)Wrap lines over winder at one end of bar and back to the other
winder following a figure eight pattern.
4)Continue wrapping lines. Pull lines in taught in order to keep
pressure on the wrap.
5)Wrap until a few feet of flying lines remain, then wrap lines 90
degrees to the bar four times securing the ends.
RIGHT WRONG
1) 2)
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 09

Repair
1)Lay the kite out flat with struts facing up.
2)Make sure the flying lines are removed and all the struts are
deflated.
3)Open the strut tip by detaching the Velcro strip and pushing it
through the securing loop with your index finger
Important:
Before removing the bladder, tie a feed line (about 10 feet long) to
the end of the bladder. You will later use the feed line to re-insert
the bladder.
4)Push the air valve into the strut so it is completely clear from the
valve opening. Find the strut opening. It is located near the
center of the leading edge.
5)When you are ready to start pulling the bladder out of the strut
opening, have a partner hold the strut tip to keep tension and
make sure the feed line goes in properly.
6)Once the bladder is completely out, the feed line fully inserted into
the strut with excess line line hanging out of the tip.
7)Inflate the bladder and submerge it in a bucket of water. Look for
air bubbles to find any wholes in the bladder. This method is
similar to repairing a bicycle innertube tire.
8)Dry and clean the bladder with a towel, and mark the hole using
a black felt pen. Again deflate the bladder.
9)Using the sandpaper enclosed in the repair kit, lightly rough the
area to be repaired.
10)Peel the backing off the repair patch and press it on the bladder
to cover the hole.
Important:
Make sure the bladder is dry and the air valve is closed before
proceeding further. Put the bladder in plastic bag with a sufficient
amount of talcom powder.
11)Close the bag and shake it until the the talcom powder
completely covers the bladder. Before you begin the restoration
process, fold the bladder ike an accordion wit the air valve lined
up to the valve opening.
12)Have your partner pull the feed line so the bladder is reinserted
into the strut. While doing this, you should keep tension on the
strut and make sure the bladder is inserted properly.
Important:
Once the bladder is completely inserted into the strut, make sure
the air valve is properly exposed through the valve opening.
13)Inflate the bladder until it is half-full of air. Check to make sure
that the bladder is inserted correctly and that there are no folds in
5)
4)
3)
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 10

the bladder material. If an irregular bend or misaligned air valve
is detected, stop and reinsert the bladder. Failure to correct the
problem at this point can cause severe damage to the bladder
when it is fully inflated.
14)Roll the excess bladder material into the tip of the strut and
reconnect the Velcro strap under the securing loop.
Kite warranty policy
Liquid force warrants this product to be free of major defects
in material or workmanship to the original purchaser for a period of
(45) days from the date of purchase. This warranty is subject to the
following limitations:
The warranty is valid only when the warranty card is proper-
ly filled out and returned to Liquid Force within seven (7) days from
the date of purchase.
The warranty is valid only when this product is used for nor-
mal recreational activities, and does not cover products used in
rental or teaching operations.
Liquid force will make the final warranty determination, which
may require inspection and/or photos of the equipment, which clear-
ly show the defect(s). If necessary, this information must be sent to
the Liquid Force distributor in your country, postage prepaid.
Product can be returned only if a return authorization number (RA)
is given to the Liquid Force distributor in advance. The RA number
must be clearly labeled on the outside of the package or it will be
refused.
If a product is deemed to be defective by Liquid Force, the
warranty covers the repair or the replacement of the defective prod-
uct only. Liquid force will not be responsible for any costs, losses,
or damages incurred as a result of loss of use of this product.
This warranty does not cover damage by misuse, abuse,
neglect or normal wear and tear including, but not limited to , punc-
tures, rigging with other than Liquid Force components, damage due
to excessive sun exposure, or damage due to over inflation of the
bladders, damage caused by improper handling and storage, dam-
age caused by use in waves or shore break, and damage caused by
anything other than defects in material and workmanship.
This warranty is voided if unauthorized repair, change or
modification has been made to any part of the equipment. The war-
ranty for any repaired or replacement equipment is good from the
date of the original purchase only.
The original purchase receipt must accompany all warranty
claims. The name of the retailer and date of purchase must be clear
and legible. There are no warranties, which extend beyond the war-
ranty specified herein.
Warning!
It is the user’s responsibility to carefully read this users guide and
instruct all users on the safe operation of this product.
Thank you for purchasing your new TENSION 4-Line Kite
www.liquidforcekites.com
576 Airport Road
Oceanside,CA
92054
760.754.5585
Liquid Force Tension User Guide 11