APCO Aviation HIKE, Manual, Page: 11 / 13

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11
body. There are two Velcro loops for attaching hiking poles on the left side of the
harness. Take care when using these to ensure that they do not interfere with take-off of in
flight.
Hike Mode
After landing, pack your wing neatly and fold it so that its size matches the dimensions of
the backpack. Invert the harness into the backpack mode and place the wing inside the
backpack. Take care that there are no bulky parts of the harness folded in a
uncomfortable way between the wing and your back. Stow larger additional items inside
the main compartment with the wing and pack smaller items in the two zipped accessory
pockets on the back of the backpack. Close and tighten the side compression straps on
the backpack. There are Velcro hiking pole attachments on the right side of the backpack.
Put the backpack on and close the hip belt and chest strap before finally adjusting the
shoulder straps so that the weight is supported mainly on the hip belt. Aditional items can
be attached using the side compression straps and the two side mesh pockets can be
used to carry water bottles and other items.
17 Inspection, cleaning, maintenance and storage
Pre-flight inspection
The harness should be inspected before every flight to ensure that it is airworthy. Special
attention should be paid if the pilot was dragged on launch or had a bad landing where
part of the harness may have been damaged by contact with the ground. During
inspection, all webbing, materials and thread / sewing should be inspected for damage or
deterioration due to use, abrasion or aging etc. If damage is found, do not fly and send the
harness for repair to a qualified person, or to Apco.
Manufacturer’s Inspection
The harness should be inspected on an annual basis by Apco or designated / approved or
qualified person to confirm airworthiness.
Maintainance and Cleaning
If the harness needs to be cleaned, do so with a damp cloth and do not use cleaning
chemicals. Air-dry out of direct sunlight.
Storage
Store in a cool dry place, and under no circumstances should a wet or damp harness be
packed and stored – dry it first.
18 Recycling
If you need to dispose this item, do so in an environmentally responsible manner. Recycling of
many parts of the wings and harnesses is possible, and there are some organizations that
manufacture reusable shopping bags, windsocks, backpacks and more using old donated
paragliding equipment. Funds raised are often used for charitable donations. Search the web, or
contact The Cloudbase Foundation for more information or advice. Do not dispose of a retired
wing or harness with normal household waste.