The new 2010 RRD Passion from RRD is a dramatic change from the kite of last year. It still retains the simple bridle set up, but that is where the similarities end. This year the kite has a much flatter arc to it, it still has the delta shape of last year, but the canopy is more open. The wingtips have also been completely redesigned and are much shorter and don't end in the classic point of last year. RRD have pushed more of the power to the middle of the kite and the foil is also slightly deeper as well, which should increase the bottom end. The 2010 RRD Passion delta kite is aimed at the Free Ride market with ease of use bring at the top of the design list. They are also lightweight, yet well built with load bearing areas getting plenty of reinforcement. The graphics on the kite are super cool also. The huge RRD logo is very striking when the kite is in the air, certainly pleasing on the eye and this kite will definitely stand out from the rest of the kites in the air!

IN THE AIR

Easy os the one word that springs to mind with the 2010 RRD Passion kite. The kite is just so well behaved it is almost hard to Believe. It delivers plenty of power in it's bottom end, we had it out in some really light winds, when we should have really been on 11 or 12m kites, and the 2010 RRD Passion 9m just kept on pulling. It won't replace the 12m in your quiver by any means, but it will mean that you can get your 9m out earlier than you would expect.
Upwind is really impressive with the kite attacking the edge of the window and enabling the rider to point their board very high indeed.
Bar pressure is about right, not too heavy and not too light. We especially liked the smooth predictable turning that will make the kite an instant hit with people learning to kite. Really, it is the predictability that sets this aside from the rest! It is just a good honest easy to fly machine that is very forgiving.
The depower is excellent and to be honest we never found the top end; mind you, we haven't had many howling gales here in the UK yet! Jumping on the Passion is fun too, with plenty of pull at your finger tips to get your airborne and the flat arc shape offering very impressive hangtime once you are in the air!

FOR
Simplicity at its best, this kite is very very easy to fly and still has enough performance to put a smile on your face when things get exciting.

OVERALL
If you are a free rider looking for something that will make you look good, turn sessions into an effortless breeze then look no further. the 2010 RRD Passion is about as easy as kiting gets....

(the above is from IKITESURF magazine test, issue 17 )

 Features:

• Stability;
• Great Power;
• Easy progressive de-power;
• Medium/light Bar pressure;
• Instant re-launch.

Technology of construction:

• New SPS system with a new designed inflating valve;
• LE Parallel seams for maximum strength and lower stretching;
• Insignia double tape leech;
• PVC round label strut end protectors;
• Metallic PU strut end reinforcements;
• DP 175 LL Dacron;
• Tejin T9600 Canopy;
• New moulded struts protectors;
• New PVC Inflating valves protectors.