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The choice of the harness has a big influence on the flight characteristics of the
ION LIGHT. There are harnesses which allow very effective weight shifting on
the one hand, but which tip to the side in turbulences quite undamped on the
other hand.
Other harnesses don’t allow extreme weight shifting, but they will give the pilot
a calmer feel in turbulent conditions.
A good flying school can help on this topic with individual advice.
Weight range
Each size of the ION LIGHT is certified for a certain weight range. The weight
refers to the “overall take off weight”. This means the weight of the pilot, the
glider, the harness and all other equipment.
If you fly the ION LIGHT on the lower half of the weight range, the agility
decreases and the glider will be more damped. In strong turbulences the wing
tends to deform and to collapse more than with a higher wing loading. If you
mainly fly in weak conditions and you are not a fan of dynamic flight
behaviour, you should consider flying the ION LIGHT in this weight range.
If you fly the ION LIGHT on the upper half of the weight range, the agility and
the stability in turbulences will increase. Also the speed will increase slightly.
The self damping will decrease in turns, as well as after collapses, so if you
often plan to fly in bumpy conditions and you want a dynamic flight
characteristic you should go for the top of the weight range.
Flying the ION LIGHT
We suggest performing your first flights with a new wing in calm conditions to
get used to the flight behaviour without any stress. We also recommend to do
some take-offs on a training hill or some ground handling to get a good feeling
for your glider from the very beginning.
Launch
Before every take off the pilot has to ensure that the equipment is in a proper
condition, especially the glider, the harness and the reserve system.
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