Gradient GOLDEN3 - 5.2. Rapid descent

Pilot´s manual GOLDEN 3 Prepared January 2010
http: www.gradient.cx tel., fax: +420 257 216 319mail: gradient@gradient.cx
Using the speed system
Maximum speed is one of the strong points of Gradient paragliders and the Golden3
is no exception. Not only has the glider got a very high maximum speed, but unlike
some other paragliders the full speed range is useable. In spite of this exceptional
stability at high speed don‘t forget that any collapse at full speed will be more
severe than the same event experienced at normal trim speed. Always keep both
hands on the controls when ying fast in turbulence and be ready to release the
speed system immediately at the rst sign of a collapse. Use the speed system
very carefully or not at all at low altitude.
5.1.4. Landing
Landing the Golden3 is very simple and should offer no difculty. On your rst
ights you may be surprised at how well it glides. Take account of this when making
your landing approach! Into wind, at about one metre above the ground pull the
brakes down all the way. In nil-wind conditions, or if forced to make an emergency
landing downwind, you may prefer to take a wrap of each control line to enable a
more dynamic are.
5.2. Rapid descent
Sooner or later every pilot will need to descend quickly. It might be because of
a sudden and unexpected change in the weather, reaching cloud base and not
wishing to enter cloud, or simply because you need to nish your ight quickly.
Additionally, if where you are landing is thermic, it is often very difcult to land
without using a rapid descent method. There are three main methods for achieving
a rapid descent and they are: Big Ears, B-Line Stall and Spiral Dive.
Practise these manoeuvres under the supervision of an instructor
and with a reserve parachute. Never compromise your safety.
5.2.1. Big Ears
This is the easiest technique for a rapid descent. Depending on how much of the
wing tip you deate, 3 m/s to 6 m/s sink rate can be achieved. While in Big Ears your
sink rate and forward speed can be further increased by using the speed system.
The Golden3 can be steered while Big Ears are in by means of weight shift.
Initiation: Take hold of the outer A-lines on both sides as high as possible and pull
them down smoothly. Hold them rmly. The effective area of the glider is reduced
equally on both sides of the wing. The size of the deated area depends on how
deeply the lines are pulled down (or on the number of lines pulled – one or two
outer lines on both sides). Be sure to pull both sides equally.