Mamba

Custom vented Mambas, flown by the Chicago Fire Kite Team. The CFKT flies first and second generation Mambas, some of which go back to 2007!

The Mamba (M3) is a major update and rethinking of the classic Mamba, whose first iteration debuted way back in 2000 in Ocean City, MD!

While working on its stablemate, the Tsuru, it occurred to me that the things I was trying would positively impact what was to become our third-generation Mamba. Did they ever! The resulting kite retained its precision and pleasant manner, but the edginess and tricks capability were kicked up several levels, and became more accessible. The changes also extended the upper end of the wind range and dramatically improved speed control. I was thrilled that it became an even more fun kite to fly, bringing back the 'organic' feel I'd been missing in recent iterations.

The sail comes forward with only minute changes to the panel layout, and the basic shape intact. But, all of the cut-outs and points of contact have either moved or been redesigned. The frame specifications and geometry are also new for the M3. I think the only carry-over is the upper spreader, but even that's in a slightly different location!

Mamba specs

Std -

  • wingspan: 97″
  • height: 45″
  • wind range: 3.5-18 mph
  • sail material: Icarex PC31 polyester
  • frame: SkyShark mix
    • P300 spine
    • 5PT lower spreaders
    • Nitro STD LE
  • rec. line: 80-150lb Spectra, 75-125 ft.
  • price (all): $399

.

LT (light)-

  • wind range: 2-8 mph
  • frame: SkyShark mix
    • P200 spine
    • 3PT LS & LLE
    • P100 ULE
  • rec. line: 50-90lb Spectra, 65-125 ft.

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SL (super light) -

  • wind range: tbd-5 mph
  • frame: SkyShark mix
    • P100 spine
    • 2PT LS & LLE
    • P90 ULE
    • lighter bridle and reinforcements
  • rec. line: 50-90lb Spectra, 65-125 ft.

Gallery

Video

Reviews

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5.0
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1-3 of 3 reviews
  1. Steve Huff
    Verified owner
    MambaMamba

    Ken builds the most precise and responsive kites I have ever flown for my style. And I have been building myself for over 30 years. They are beautiful and the panel layout lets one go crazy down the rabbit hole with color combinations. Their solid flight and presence are second to none. IMHO… Buy one!

  2. Jman
    Reviewer
    MambaMamba

    This is my favorite kite, hands down. I own it in several colors, and even bought one for my dad. Out of the 60+ kites I’ve flown over the years, this one is the most enjoyable to fly.

    The tracking is dead-straight and precise. It’s big, effortless in the air, and just feels right from the moment it lifts off. I’ve flown Benson, Blue Moon, Prism, and plenty of others I can’t even remember. If I could only keep one kite, it would be this one.

    If you don’t have one yet, get it now before they stop making them.

  3. Allen Carter
    Reviewer
    MambaMamba

    The Mamba is a true classic. In flight it is graceful and precise with enough trick capabilities to put to together a beautiful performance routine. One of the best looking Sport Kites ever made, with a panel layout that encourages an almost infinite variety in custom layouts.