Kite FLYSURFER Indie2 - review

The first generation of the FLYSURFER Indie kite was great for learning, foiling, and relaxed freeride. However, it wasn’t very eager to jump or handle more aggressive riding, and the upper wind range was somewhat limited because the kite tended to pull downwind quite a lot, making it fairly difficult to edge against. These were the main areas with room for improvement—and that’s exactly what the new model delivers.

For testing during my trip to Egypt, I received the 15 m size, which given that this kite is aimed at light wind conditions and considering my low weight of around 63 kg is an ideal size to ride even in winds as low as 8 kts. In this review, I won’t focus too much on technical details, but rather on my overall impression of the kite and, most importantly, how it flies.

Construction

Like the previous model, this is a classic 4-line kite with a single strut, a simple bridle with one pulley, and an overall very lightweight construction that has been redesigned. One change is the connection between the leading edge and the strut using only a single tube, reducing weight and allowing adjustment of the rear line bridle lengths. This is done using two knots and a lark’s head loop, designed in a way that prevents accidental complete detachment. It’s a clever little feature that costs and weighs virtually nothing—so why not include it. From the factory, the rear lines were set to a longer configuration, which made the kite feel unnecessarily “over-trimmed.” After moving the knot closer to the kite, everything felt just right, so I’d recommend doing this right away if you’re connecting the kite to a new or properly tuned bar in terms of front-to-rear line length ratio. Another noticeable difference is the thinner leading edge, which we’ll come back to in the flight characteristics section. The canopy profile in the center section has also been refined.

Improved Flight Characteristics

The second-generation Flysurfer Indie feels significantly more mature. The combination of a slightly thinner leading edge, redesigned bridle, and refined canopy profile in the center section gives the kite noticeably livelier flight, increased speed, and overall greater dynamics. As a result, the Indie2 flies further toward the edge of the wind window, pulls less downwind at higher speeds and in stronger winds, and is easier to hold an edge. Thanks to its solid dynamics, it also responds willingly to jumps and provides decent lift. Combined with quick turning in a tight radius, very precise feedback, and direct, sensitive control, it feels like a size smaller kite—which is a big plus and makes it more fun to ride. These improvements also enhance its upwind ability, which is especially important in light wind conditions.

Performance

Indie 2 retains strong power for its size from the previous generation. With the added flight dynamics, you can generate even more power in light wind by actively steering and looping the kite, while also improving upwind performance. In stronger winds, the usable range is significantly extended thanks to its ability to fly further toward the edge of the window and reduced downwind pull. Overall, the new model feels less powerful in strong wind, but in a good way—the power is more manageable and under better control while riding.

Stability

Despite the noticeable increase in dynamics and speed, the FLYSURFER Indie 2 maintains excellent stability even in light wind and at the edge of the wind window. Even in very light wind, when you sheet out, the kite doesn’t collapse or fall forward—even when moving around on the beach. I also tested pulling on the center lines with the kite at 12 o’clock, and it still didn’t drop, which is quite rare for an inflatable kite.

Relaunch

For a kite designed for light wind and learning, easy relaunch in low wind is crucial. In this regard, the Indie2 has very little competition—just like the first generation, it still relaunches reliably even in conditions where other kites are simply lying on the water.

Overall Impression

The FLYSURFER Indie 2 is a very pleasant surprise. The only downside I noticed is slight trailing edge flutter during sharper turns on the outer wingtip, which can also be felt in the bar. This is quite common with single-strut kites and, compared to all the positives, it’s easy to overlook. Compared to the previous model, it’s significantly more fun, and thanks to improved jump dynamics, it will appeal to more advanced and lighter riders as well. At the same time, it retains intuitive and precise handling with a medium progressive bar pressure and very good feedback, something that was independently highlighted by several people I let test the kite.

Another big plus is the well-designed, practical backpack with a clean look. I often use it as carry-on luggage when traveling, for shopping during kite trips, and similar uses. The kite fits inside nicely even if it’s not perfectly packed, and with proper packing, you can fit two kites into the bag.

FLYSURFER Indie2 is an ideal choice as the largest size in a multi-kite setup, for beginners, kite schools, or foiling enthusiasts.

If you don’t believe it and want to try it yourself, just get in touch and we can arrange a test ;-)
Cheers, Leguán

EXPLORE THE PRODUCT