"I just hope the Dart 18 try is out first. I did hear the Dart 18 was not really suited to the spi package but then again this could just be a rumour that was spread by a malicious opponent of the spi packages."
I believe they are not wrong - I owned a Dart and never admired it`s steering, the long narrow deep V-shaped hulls act as tram-lines and prevent rapid bear-aways which are so necessary with kite up. But there are Dart sailors here willing to try it, so we will see how they go.
I don't think the D18 is a good candidate for a kite :
1, Very narrow hulls up front
2, Not good steering (hull shape and rudders)
3, The mast is not going to last long unless the Kite goes no higher than the hounds.....
18's are a good giggle when it blows (had one for 10 years; comedy steering and not much up front) and onlt really need the kite up to about F4.... It would get very messy if you tried to fly the kite in a 6 methinks......
