Kite buggy

The speed achieved in kite buggies by skilled drivers can range up to around 110 km/h (70 mph), hence protective clothing, including a safety helmet, is commonly worn.

In advanced buggy designs either or both front and rear wheels can be attached via suspension mechanisms.

Instead there are two foot rests sticking out, on the left and right of it, attached to the fork very low down, near where the wheel is mounted.

Foot straps are not recommended for beginners, due to the possibility that they will not be able to remove their feet from the pegs if the buggy flips over and therefore risk breaking their ankles.

A heavier buggy does not slide sideways as easily, enabling it to transfer higher lateral kite forces into the ground via friction.

Also possible is filling some of the buggy frame's usually hollow tubes with a dense substance such as lead.

The pilot flies the kite overhead to generate maximum lift and is then—with the buggy—hoisted up to tens of feet into the air.

Very advanced pilots even perform aerial manoeuvres such as 360° (or more) spins, sidewinders, pendulum swings and reverse landings.

Performing the sport, the kite buggy pilot has to always act responsibly and make sure to not harm bystanders or cause damage to the environment or property.

A frequent cause of accidents is flying a kite too large for the wind conditions and experience of the pilot.

This can be avoided by flying kites small enough so that they allow the pilot to safely stop the buggy by turning it through the wind and driving upwind.

Pilots are encouraged to obtain 3rd party liability insurance as there is a risk of coming into contact with bystanders or each other.

Responsible shops should strongly discourage newcomers from buying very powerful kites without instruction.

They should also offer or help organising tuition for novice pilots, ideally through PKSF-accredited instructors.