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What the reviews say
Summary written by Kiteloopers from these reviews. Read them for details.
2027
Available editorial tests describe the 2027 F-One Bandit 18 as a versatile freeride kite that feels calmer and easier to control than its predecessor. Refined power management and smoother depower improve comfort in chop and gusty conditions while retaining quick planing, reliable stability and accessible jumping performance.
Strengths
Improved control with a more measured flying speed
Smooth depower and consistent power delivery
Stable in stronger wind and choppy water
Reinforced 160 g Dacron leading edge
Weaknesses
Slower and less lively than the previous version
Not the best choice for riders seeking an especially aggressive feel
Who for
For beginners through advanced riders seeking an all-round freeride kite for varied conditions, strapless riding, jumping and progression.
The 2023 F-One Bandit XVI is a versatile freeride kite with precise steering, strong stability and improved efficiency in gusty conditions. The test also highlights its easy relaunch, effective upwind performance and broad suitability for freeride, foiling, big air and strapless riding.
Strengths
Very stable across a wide wind range
Precise, linear steering response
Efficient upwind performance
Fast and easy auto relaunch
Weaknesses
The test identifies few significant shortcomings
Its versatile design favors accessibility over highly specialized freestyle performance
Who for
A good choice for intermediate to expert riders seeking one dependable kite for freeride, foiling, big air and strapless sessions.
The 2019 F-One Bandit XII is a lively all-round kite with improved bar feedback, speed and lift over the previous version. Reviews consistently describe it as stable, predictable and easy to relaunch, with strong freeride, wave, freestyle and foiling capability, although its speed requires accurate kite handling during jumps.
Strengths
Versatile for freeride, waves and freestyle
Stable and nearly automatic relaunch
Fast, direct and precise handling
Wide wind range and strong upwind ability
Weaknesses
Its speed requires precise timing on landings
Less specialized than a dedicated freestyle kite
Can feel very lively for riders used to five-strut kites
Who for
It suits riders from motivated beginners to experts who want one versatile kite for freeride, waves, freestyle or foiling.
Available tests cover the 2020 and 2021 Bandit generations. The 2020 model is presented as an easy, versatile performance kite for freeride, big air, foiling and freestyle, while the 2021 version adds rigidity, stability and wind range for a more refined sporty freeride and kiteloop experience.
Strengths
Excellent upwind ability and wide wind range
Light bar pressure with direct feedback and precise steering
Stable, accessible and highly versatile
Strong jumping and kiteloop potential
Weaknesses
Less specialized than a dedicated surf or foil kite
Its performance and power may exceed the needs of a complete beginner
Limited independent long-term durability feedback
Who for
For riders wanting one versatile kite for freeride, jumping, loops and progression, from independent beginners to advanced riders.
