Built during May 2004, when everyone should be out flying, this is my largest homebuilt kite to date.
I was attracted to the Dopero by its simplicity, and its alleged suitability for Kite Aerial Photography.
The basic plan was obtained from here, using Google to translate into English from German. That is always a good laugh!
Dopero comes from "Double Pearson Roller".
Most of the
materials
came from Kiteworks
(Chalkies).
Still trying to perfect my sewing, I wanted an eye catching design, that was easy to assemble.
The graph paper was used to draw small scale panel sections, ensuring the the grain always followed the longest side of a panel.
They were also used to work out a cutting plan.
(Meanwhile I got carried away making the kite, and forgot about Photos.)
Many hours
later........
1st June 2004: Maiden flight.
Sutton Park, very light wind, very wet grass and lots of cow pats!
Flew first time, with no adjustments needed, but the lower spreader cracked slightly. Later in a gust it cracked altogether (so much for Excel Extreme). I am going to make a slight modification to the spar ties on the lower sail to ensure it bows rather than bends.
Watch this
space......
Post script:
This was
later done: a simple velcro tube for the lower spar at the centre of
the sail solved all problems.
© J L Williams 2004