Bolero 6 user manual
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Big ears
Big ears are the simplest method for rapid descent and have a sink rate of 3-5m/s. The
advantage of big ears is that the glider continues to �y straight, meaning that a danger area
can be avoided. It is even possible to land using big ears, for example on a top-landing to
compensate for the updraft.
The wing-loading increases by the reduction in the wing’s surface area, the wing becomes
more stable against collapses in turbulence. Nevertheless, the air resistance of the wing also
increases, and it �ies more slowly and closer to the stall limit. To counter this and to increase
the eퟍ�ectiveness of the sink, the speed bar is generally also used in combination with big
ears.
Start the “big ears” manoeuvre by pulling both outer A-lines downwards. This should fold
down a suퟆ�ciently large part of the wing tips that the pilot does not then have to counteract
the tendency to reopen. If the surface area which tucks under is too small (“ears” �apping,
high holding forces), re-open the ears and then pull down and hold the A-lines a little more
�rmly.
The brake lines are held steady and the pilot uses weightshift to steer the paraglider. You
can now descend safely on the stable middle part of the wing. The brakes must not be
shortened during the manoeuvre, e.g. by wrapping the brake line.
Do not use the brakes
unless you intend to exit big ears.
Once in big ears, you can increase your sink rate and forward speed by applying the speed
bar. Always apply the speed bar after entering big ears, never before.
To exit big ears, release both A lines at the same time. Apply brake progressively one side
at a time to help re-in�ation. Be careful not brake too deeply on both sides at the same time
as this could cause a stall.
WARNING: The technique of big ears causes a higher load for the line groups which are
still weight-bearing. Therefore, do not y any extreme manoeuvres with big ears.
This manoeuvre should be avoided in low temperatures. Pilots should be aware that this
increases the tendency to deep stall.
Landing
The Bolero 6 requires no speci�c techniques for landing. Land on a large and obstacle-free
landing site. Observe the wind direction and strength, and any hazards in, or near, the landing
area.
Fly a proper landing circuit and plan your �nal approach well in advance. Never perform
steep turns near the ground. This may cause the pilot to pendulum dangerously.
Actively choose a spot on the ground in the landing �eld to aim for. Adopt an upright
position in your harness by sliding your legs forward, ready to make contact with the ground.
Make your �nal approach as straight as possible. Fly at around trim speed (keep just
enough tension on the brakes to keep contact with the wing, a little more tension in turbulent
air). Once you come within a metre of the ground, brake progressively to maintain a level
�ight path.
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