ORIGIN
DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONCEPT
The BOW is the result of more than 3 years of research by the Legaignoux brothers. Noticing that the 4-line kites and quick releases developed in 1999 and 2000 do not solve 100% the safety problems, they decided in October 2001 to explore another way: having a larger opening of the profile in the gusts should make it possible to avoid a number of accidents.
They then tested some bridles on the leading edge of 4-line C-shape kites to allow the wing more de-power but they turned badly and the bar pressure was heavy.
In early 2002, to help the wing to turn, they modified a Free Air 8.9, gave it some sweep by sewing triangular creases in the wing and they added bridles on the leading edge.
The tests on water proved to be promising but especially they understood or rather remembered (because Dominique had already thought of it) that adding in sweep allows flattening of a wing. The BOW concept was born and the Legaignoux consequently focused on flattening the wing in order to obtain 100% de-power.
The Bow's ancestor proves its capacity to de-power
Till early 2003, they continued to work on bridles starting from modified C-shape kites. Then the first protos arrived, making it possible to better define the final form of the kite.
The Takoon team (with which Bruno collaborated since the creation of the brand) were kept informed of the Legaignoux’s work but they went in a slightly different direction, developing their own type BOW kite (not as flat).
~ Prototypes ~
TThe Legaignoux brothers continued to develop the concept and proposed it to the large kite brands after Takoon disclosed the concept in December 2004 at the Paris Boat Show
Many brands were interested, but it was Cabrinha who was the fastest to launch its Bow kite.
Credits : Rou Chater / Kitesurf Magazine
THE BOW PHENOMENON – A few dates
January 2002 : the Legaignoux brothers invent the Bow kite concept
December 2004: Takoon reveals the Bow kite at the Paris Boat Show
July 1st 2005: Cabrinha Crossbow website online
End of July 2005: Crossbow in the US shops and Takoon Nova in the French shops
August 2005: Five brands announce their “flat” kite
September 2005: Four other brands announce their “flat” kite
The revolution is on the way…