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4. Flying with the FLUID
We recommend that you first practice inflating your glider on a small training slope with skis.
Make your first flights with your new Speedriding glider in gentle conditions in a familiar area.
Then keep on discovering step by step all the potential of your glider.
Preparation for launch
Following a consistent method of preparation and pre-flight checks is vital for safe flying. We
recommend the following:
On arrival at the flying site, assess the suitability of the conditions: wind speed and
direction, airspace, snow conditions.
Inspect your glider, harness, helmet and any other equipment.
Choose a sufficiently large take-off area with even ground and no obstacles.
Lay the glider out according to the planform, and get the lines and risers sorted out.
Put your helmet on. Secure yourself in your harness and don't forget the leg loops!
Connect the risers to your harness carabiners, ensuring there are no twists or loops
around the lines.
Do a final line check by pulling gently on the risers or lines to ensure there are no new
knots, tangles or interfering branches or rocks. Take extra care in nil or light winds.
Pre-flight check list
Helmet and harness buckles closed.
Lines free.
Canopy open and into wind.
Airspace clear.
Take off
The key to a successful launch technique is to practice ground handling whenever you can.
Keeping your brake handles in your hands, the FLUID inflates very easily, with or without risers
in hand. Keep your arms slightly bent and hands at shoulder height. If you are using the front
risers, your arms should rise in a curve. It is not necessary to pull hard on the risers.
Make visual check on your glider before taking off to see if it is correctly inflated and that there
are no knots or tangles. If something is wrong, stop the take off. A slight pressure on the brakes
and the gliding of your skis always makes the take off easier.
Minimum sink rate and max glide ratio.
