Patrick's Benson "Gemini Ultralight"

Patrick's
Benson "Gemini Ultralight"
Updated January 15, 2007.
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Introduction
The Gemini Ultralight (UL) by Benson, is a beautifully constructed stunt kite, down to the smallest details. It is one of the few stunt kites whose panel design affords it a very taut sail. Its most obvious and unique feature is its twin spine. The Gemini comes in a standard version, however I feel the UL version has a more impressive panel design and is the better flyer of the two in my opinion.

Dimensions, specs & cost
The Gemini UL is 7'1" wide and weights 9.25 oz., and is rated for 2-12mph. (It is more like 5-15 mph. My rating is based on how much wind it takes to keep it in the air without extraneous effort, and not by the manufacturer's specs.) I purchased my Gemini UL from The Kite Connection for $265.00.

Flight Characteristics
The Gemini UL is a top-notch flyer when flown in its sweet spot. I do not consider this stunt kite an ultralight because it requires a minimum air speed of 5 mph to keep it in the air without extraneous effort. I also had tried a Gemini Standard, which I felt had too much structural weight for its sail area and only could be flown in a narrow wind window. The UL version, responds well and can fly smooth in a wider wind window. It is a fine stunt kite.

Of the Benson kites, the Deep Space also has a taut sail and is a great flyer.