3.2.2 FLIGHT
The increased speed range of Universal (in case of trimmers operation) may
demand some attention in flight. Nevertheless, once you have mastered
these additional assets, flying will become pure fun. Good handling will let
you make best use of thermals, and increased speed on transitions means
that your presence in sinking air will be shorter. To avoid stalls when braking
with closed trimmers, their movement is restricted by the tape sewing (Note:
it is possible to push the sewn tape through the buckle with both hands to
replace it, but normal operation range is restricted by said place!).
TURNS
Universal is an agile wing, with smooth reactions to the steering inputs.
Handling is actually easy and forces grow proportionally to position of the
brakes. Adding some weight shift will make the paraglider turn really quick
and tight.
The combined technique (weight shifting and brake input) is by far the most
efficient method.
Turn radius is determined by the amount of inside brake used and weight
shift. Additional application a little outside brake after initiating the turn with
maximum weight shift increases turn efficiency and the outboard wing’s
resistance to collapse (in turbulence, the edge of a thermal etc).
In case of necessary turning in confined area at slow speed (e.g. slope
soaring), it is recommended to steer the decelerated canopy by loosening
the brake at the outside of the turn while applying just a little more brake on
the inside.
NOTE: when entering a turbulent area you should brake a little to put
up the tension. It will allow you to react instantly in case of a problem.
CAUTION: Too hard or too quick pulling of one brake can cause the
wing to enter a spin.
THERMALLING AND SOARING
When flying the Universal minimum sink is reached with slight brake
pressure applied (10 to 15 cm, depending on pilot’s weight).
In turbulent conditions the canopy should be flown with a small amount of
brake applied. This improves overall stability by increasing the angle of
attack of the canopy. The canopy should neither rock back nor surge
forwards, but always stay above the pilot. In order to achieve it, the pilot
should accelerate the canopy by letting off the brakes when entering a
thermal (according to its strength) and brake it on exiting. This is part of
basic active flying that can spare you many potential collapses.
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