F-One Bandit TEC 2025 test review is something that you’ve probably benn waiting for! After two years without a significant update, the anticipation for the new Bandit TEC was high. F-One has introduced the 17th edition of their legendary kite, now featuring the innovative CODE-TEC fabric, aiming to enhance performance, responsiveness, and stability.
First Impressions – Sleek Design & Robust New Material
F-One consistently delivers stylish designs, and the Bandit TEC is no exception.
•Aesthetic Appeal: The kite showcases modern cream and pastel tones, making it stand out on the water.
•Build Quality: The leading edge and canopy feel notably stiffer, attributed to the new CODE-TEC fabric, which offers reduced stretch and increased tear resistance.
•Weight: Slightly lighter than its predecessor, enhancing its agility.
Notable Observations:
•Bridles & Attachment Points: No significant changes; similar to the previous Bandit models, featuring loops and knots.
•Pulleys on the Bridles: These improve behavior in gusty conditions and help distribute pressure evenly, providing stable pull but slightly reducing direct steering responsiveness.
•Valve System: Unchanged, with combined inlet and outlet valves. Previous models had issues here; hopefully, these have been resolved.
•Trailing Edge: No additional reinforcements as seen in earlier models; the panels now extend to the edge without extra stitching.
Test Conditions & Initial Flight Experience
Testing took place under ideal conditions:
•Wind: Poniente at 20-25 knots, following a storm.
•Locations: A vast lagoon with flat water and the open sea with substantial waves.
•Kite Sizes: I used the 10m, while Ola tested the 8m.
Upon initial power-up:
•Stability: The kite remained steady, with minimal deformation, feeling rigid.
•Forward Pull: More pronounced than previous models, occasionally excessive.
•Speed: Surprisingly, it didn’t feel faster than the older Bandit versions.
Flight Characteristics & Performance
•Jumping & Lift: The Bandit TEC offers more lift than its predecessor, with excellent hangtime, though not as explosive as the Trigger model.
•Kiteloops: I didn’t attempt loops with the 10m, as it felt less aggressive and slower compared to the Trigger, making it less appealing for big-air enthusiasts.
•Low-End & High-End: Unable to test low-end due to strong winds; however, high-end performance was impressive, maintaining control even as winds intensified.
Comparison with Other Kites & Previous Models
The Bandit TEC retains the classic Bandit DNA, serving as an all-rounder suitable for various disciplines:
•Stability: Enhanced over previous models, with no deformation or tip folding.
•Stiffer Leading Edge: Provides better control, eliminating the softness found in earlier versions.
•User-Friendliness: Its forgiving nature makes it ideal for learners and all-round riders.
However:
•Speed: It’s slower than expected.
•Forward Pull: Increased, making timing for jumps more challenging.
•Pulleys: Slightly diminish direct steering feel.
Overall, it’s a versatile kite that performs well across various disciplines but doesn’t excel in any single area.
Conclusion – Who Is the Bandit TEC 2025 For?
•All-Rounders & Freeriders: Suitable for foiling, wave riding, freestyle, and big air.
•Beginners & Intermediates: Easy to control, forgiving, and stable.
•Big Air Enthusiasts: May not be ideal; the Trigger might be a better choice for those seeking higher jumps and faster loops.
Pros:
•Stylish Design: Visually appealing with modern aesthetics.
•Stability & Rigidity: No deformation during flight.
•Lift & Hangtime: Improved over previous models.
•Forgiving Nature: Ideal for learners.
•No Backstall: A notable improvement.
Cons:
•Minimal Progression: Not a significant leap from its predecessor.
•Increased Forward Pull: Affects jump timing. 
•Reduced Speed: Slower than expected.
•Pulleys: Impact direct steering responsiveness.
Is It Worth the Investment?
•Yes: If you’re seeking a stylish all-rounder suitable for various disciplines.
•No: If you require a kite specialized for a specific discipline, such as big air or loops.
Why We’re Incorporating the Bandit TEC into Our Kiteschool
Based on initial tests, we’re confident that the Bandit TEC 2025 will be an excellent addition to our kiteschool:
•Ideal for Learners: Its forgiving nature and stability make it perfect for beginners.
•Versatile for Rentals: Suitable for various riding styles and conditions.
•Consistent Performance: Reliable across different environments, from waves to flat water.
The stable leading edge and forgiving flight characteristics are significant advantages for our students.
F-One Bandit TEC 2025 test review – let us know if you agree! Thak you surf people for letting us test it!
