The Leading Edges usually come in two parts: Upper and Lower. This way they can be broken-down to save space in transit. Lower leading edges generally come with wing-tip knocks already attached. Some kites are designed with a single, solid leading edge that cannot be broken down.
Leading Edge Fittings are molded soft-rubber pieces that connect the Leading Edges to the Upper Spreader and the Lower Spreader. The use of rubber allows for some durable flexibility in the kite frame, which can often prevent breaks during hard landings.
The Upper Spreader is a single piece that connects to the Upper Leading Edge via Leading Edge Fittings. The Upper Spreader does not connect to the Spine directly, but the center of the Upper Spreader will touch, or nearly touch, the Sail against the Spine. Most Sails are reinforced at this point to compensate for wear.
Like the Leading Edges, the Lower Spreader usually comes in two parts. Some kites are designed with two identical Lower Spreaders that connect to a Center T, which is attached to the Spine. Other Lower Spreader designs (like the Prism E2) have male and female counterparts that connect through a center post (instead of a Center T) which is attached to the Spine.
The Center T secures the Lower Leading Edges in line with each other, and keeps them securely perpendicular to the spine. The Center T is usually connected to the Spine itself through a narrow opening in the Sail. Some kites have a Center Post instead of a Center T; it functions the same, but with the Center Post, the Lower Spreaders connect to each other directly through a hole in the Post.
Stand-offs give the kite shape and loft by holding the trailing edge of the sail away from the Lower Spreader. The Stand-offs are connected to the Sail with Stand-off Clips (Sail Clips), and to the Lower Spreader with Stand-off Retainer Fittings. Many stunt kite designs use just two stand-offs (one per wing), but some may come with as many as six (three per wing) or more. Stand-offs should be positioned perpendicular to the Lower Spreader.
The Wingtip Knock provides a notch at the base of the Leading Edge where a Sail Tensioner (Wing Tensioner) can be securely fastened.
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