THE SUM OF THE PARTS ... EQUALS THE WHOLE

Kite fliers need to become familiar with the basic parts of kites when building or flying them. They also should use the correct terms to explain the way in which the parts of the kite affect its ability to fly. There are six parts with which the kite flyer should be familiar.

COVER

The first part is the cover. It is the material that provides an overall surface and catches the wind. The cover should be symmetrical in order for the kite to fly. The front or face of the kite is divided into halves called wings.

FRAME

The second part is the frame. It is the skeleton of the kite and usually made of wood. The center stick is called the spine. Additional sticks, which support the wings, are named spars.

BRIDLE

The third part, the bridle, is a string or strings which extend from the face of the kite. The number of strings, or legs, depends upon the size and shape of the kite. The bridle is attached to the flying line and holds the kite at the proper angle to the wind while it is being flown. The bridle and its points of connection are critical to the kite's performance. The optimal angle varies with the type of kite and the velocity of the wind. The length of the bridle also varies depending on the size of the kite. It is usually about four times the distance between the two connecting points.

TOWING POINT

The towing point is the fourth part of the kite and the point at which the flying line is attached to the bridle. It can be a small plastic curtain ring or a simple loop in the string. It should be located approximately 1/3 of the way down the spine and about 1/2 of the length of the spine out from the face of the kite. For example, if the spine is 24" long, the towing point is 8" from the top and 12" away from the kite. The towing point affects the flight of the kite. It flies best in a vertical position. If the wind is gentle, a lower towing point will result in a larger surface area being presented to the wind. In a higher wind it is necessary to permit more wind to slip away from the lower surfaces of the kite by raising the t6wing point to a nearly horizontal angle.

KEEL

Some kites have a keel instead of a bridle and towing ring. The keel is made from the same material as the cover and projects from the face of the kite, like the keel of a boat. It steadies the kite and guides it into the wind.

TAIL

The final part, the tail, increases stability by keeping the kite facing in the right direction and preventing it from twisting. The tail provides extra drag or wind resistance. A variety of styles, and lengths are used depending on the type of kite and the wind conditions.

Return to Sum of the Parts Equals the Whole Questions or Kids and Kites in the Classroom