The winners' podium for the first Biotech Bordairline event of 2010 in Locarno, Switzerland
Winner of the 2009 Red Bull X-Alps, Chrigel Maurer, has also won the first Biotech Bordairline competition of the year, finishing ahead of Austrians Robert Heim and Martin Steinbichler. The event was held in Locarno, Switzerland, from 28 – 29 May 2010. (more…)
Norwegian paraglider pilot James Mercer linked this video to a comment on one of our posts, but we think it deserves its own. So, here it is: James has made a special mount for his video camera so that it can be mounted in his paraglider cells and the camera angle changed in flight, really giving him control over his in-flight footage.
James has other videos of his setup, just search for ‘Topviewpg’ on Youtube or Vimeo.
Flymaster B1 Nav vario-GPS unit
Flymaster Avionics have released version 1.17 of their firmware for the B1 Nav vario / GPS unit for paragliding and hang gliding. (more…)
Center of Gravity CG-1000 hang glider harness
Center of Gravity’s very popular CG-1000 hang glider harnesses are now available again after ten years out, thanks to popuar demand. The American company custom-build harnesses to each pilot’s measurements and requirements.
The CG-1000 has an internal frame with total body and leg support that is load-tested to 10G and easily adjustable. It has plenty of storage space and a zippered stash pocket. The backup hang strap is used as a sheath to protect the parachute lines. It has a chest-mounted reserve container and washable / replaceable Cordura tail skid.
Check their website for the available optional extras.
UP XD70 Open Class competition paraglider
German paraglider manufacturer UP have revealed their new ’secret weapon’ in the Open Class category: the XD70 is, they say, a “machine that oozes performance”.
Available to competition pilots only, the XD70 has a flat aspect ratio of 8 and only two lines on each of the three risers on each side, but the company say it is very manageable in thermals, with a lively handling and very smooth carving turns. They add that it doesn’t suffer from the tendency to throw you out of the turn that other very elongated designs have.
The company describe the speed system as light and very efficient, and say that the wing is stable throughout. The XD70 is trimmed fast, but effective pitch trimmers allow you to limit this to ensure that no one climbs past you, even in the weakest of lift.
UP say the XD70 is a well-rounded competition wing, but it does remain a work in progress – so if your Edge is getting a little weary and you’d like to stick with the UP quality and handling you have come to enjoy, then contact Mads as the XD70 could be your next wing.
The XD70 is load- and shock-tested by the DHV, and can be ordered in sizes S/M, M, M/L and L.
Brauniger IQ Basic GPS-vario
Brauniger’s IQ Basic / GPSÂ is exactly what it says on the tin – a basic vario with integrated GPS unit for paraglider and hang glider pilots, at a competitive price.
Brauniger say it is easy to operate whilst offering the functions a performance-minded pilot needs.
Its very sensitive and accurate 20-channel GPS receiver provides very precise speed over the ground information, and the flight recorder records flights in IGC format for easy uploading to your online competition or for viewing in Google Earth using Flychart software.
The IQ Basic / GPS takes alkaline batteries or NiMh accus and one set provide 40 hours’ operation.
All this, and it looks good too, with an elegant and ultra-flat metallic housing, low volume, lateral soft-touch gripping surface and easily operable keys.
More information on www.brauniger.com
The FAI has cancelled Armand Acchione (US)’s record claim for speed over a 200 km triangle on a rigid wing hang glider, which he flew on his Aeriane Swift Light in January.
Armand put in a claim for such a flight with an average speed of 52 km /h, which would have bettered Robin Hamilton’s 2002 record by 6.5 km / h, but as he was unable to provide all the necessary documentation by the deadline the record has not been ratified.
Gin's new EN A paraglider, the Bolero 4
Gin’s new beginner wing the Bolero 4 is certified EN / LTF A in all five sizes (covering all-up weights of 55 – 140 kg), and ready to see new pilots through from their first days on the hill into regular cross country flying.
For this class of wing, Gin’s principle consideration was that it should be easy to fly, comfortable and extremely safe for pilots just discovering our sport, but also appealing for regular pilots looking for totally relaxed flying.
Gin say their use of lighter materials and flexible plastic battens in the leading edge in place of mylar has saved weight, the M size now being 5.4 kg. This lightness makes the wing easier to inflate, and after much work the team feel they have perfected the Bolero 4’s launch characteristics in a range of conditions.
In the air, Gin say, the wing has good damping properties, plus a flatter turn and better sink rate than its predecessor. It also has a more compact feel and better precision, despite having a long (progressive) brake travel for safety.
The Bolero 4 benefits from Gin’s attention to detail and renowned fine finish, and has used a new water-based coating on the top surface to improve durability and resistance to porosity. It has a kick-down speed system and a big ears system with split A risers
All in all, the company believe that with the Bolero 4 they have achieved a balance of safety and performance never seen before in this class.
Gin Gliders' lightweight fast-pack paraglider bag
Gin Gliders have brought out a lightweight version (600g) of their fast-pack bag. It is available in silver, and has two back straps for easy carrying.
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