Just got an older Ion rope spreader bar replacement for the Dakine hook that came with my Nitrous HD harness shorts. Just curious how most people connect their CL to the rope. I know some new bar CL's have metal inset specifically for rope sliders, but what's the best way to connect older bars?
Below is a pic of what I have set up. I just put the CL through the ring that came with the Dakine short leash. Obviously I have to undo and reconnect the CL for every session but is there any better option? And what about safety... has anyone encountered a situation where this setup could be problematic?
Also, is shorter or longer rope length preferred by folks? Apparently short = quick response, and long = smooth and slow rotation. I like the sound of long for smooth and slow rotation but am concerned the bar and throw will be that much further away and require me to bend/reach more for it which is not good. Any suggestions on what works best?
rope slider setup.jpg (47.74 KiB) Viewed 2724 times
The rope slider spreader bar works very well and has become popular. The steel ring you added to your Ion one is what we have all done.. it's unfortunate that Ion doesn't include one. Be aware that the rope itself does wear out eventually but it can easily be replaced.
I notice your leash is attached to the steel ring. I suggest that instead you attach it to your harness (on one of the straps maybe) so if your rope fails your leash is still connected.
I prefer to have the rope as tight as I can get it so it is easier to slide, but it's personal preference.
The best rope sliders I have seen are made by Ion and Mystic and they do fit on Dakine harnesses.
cglazier made a good point on the leash attachments. I like to use a 16-20mm low friction ring (see attached) for chicken loop as the ring puts a lot of stress on the PU tube eventually breaking it down. Also your rope is a bit long, consider shortening them to add to your bar throw. I like to get my own rope ( 1/8 " New England) and splice them fully. that way the outside will wear out and the rope inside won't be compromised. I use this for my bars and they last more than 3 season before I get a new one.
Attachments
low friction ring.jpg (83.08 KiB) Viewed 2711 times
I found that North Shore Board & Ski sells the Duotone rope harness CL attachment kit for their bar system for $100 which includes a short harness.
Duotone rope CL kite.jpg (4.15 KiB) Viewed 2651 times
Assembled, it looks like this, which is a pretty nice setup!
rope CL assembled.jpg (16.83 KiB) Viewed 2651 times
I also found that Steveston Marine only had one option for low friction rings which was 20mm and cost $45.
low-friction ring.jpg (141.6 KiB) Viewed 2651 times
Both of the above options seem too costly with minimal benefit over just tightening my rope and using the steel ring I already have. Yes, it may wear the CL material but replacing it seems to cost the same as preventing it so it seems like a wash to me.
I also moved the leach attach point to one of the webbing straps on the side of the harness so if the rope breaks then I'll still have the kite attached to me. Thanks again!