Was in doubt about selling my Type 7's (9/12/15) and having one kite that could get me through the various wind ranges but think I found it. Have 5 straight days on the new 12m ION with wind ranging from 15-35. First 3 days most guys were out on 9's and 7's and I was on my 12 with 20m lines and was lit but still pretty good. Jumps were ridiculous..The lift in the kites is crazy to the point that you actually fly the kite like a paraglider to get out of the sky. Yesterday most C kiters were on 13m and 15m kites and I was perfect on the 12m Ion.
Kite if fairly fast..not sure a quick as the type 7's but close.BUt for over all performance I think it is a no brainer..Not sure the safety aspect of the kite but I did not buy it for that..I have always felt comfortable with most C kites set ups and safety systems.
Actually very interested in how it does in lighter wind but we have yet to have that out here on the west coast..

how much do you weigh?

175

How did the Ion compare to your type7's in freestyle?

seems good..has a fair amount of pop..kite loops well and pivots pretty well in the waves..i would give it a b+..