Pilot’s manual for Montana3
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all cell openings are free
no lines are looped around or under the canopy
no lines are tangled or have a knot in them
any twigs, grass or other objects are not entangled in the lines or in the canopy
the risers are not twisted
the brake lines run freely through the pulleys
the knots on the brake handles are secure
the karabiners on the risers are tightened
5.1.2. Launch
Launching Montana3 is straightforward, either by front launch or by reverse launch. A dynamic pull of
the front risers (A, coloured red) will bring the canopy simply and easily above the pilot's head. The
canopy inflates from the centre equally and smoothly. The Montana3 has no tendency to outrun the
pilot and quickly stabilises above the pilot. Once there, visually check the canopy and the lines before
taking off. Take off can be made easier by a light pull on the brakes.
5.1.3. Flight
Montana3 is trimmed to fly at best glide when the brakes are fully up. Best sink rate is achieved when
both brakes are drawn down evenly to about 10-15% of their range.
Flying in turbulent conditions
When flying through severe turbulence, stabilise the canopy with simultaneously applying a little brake
to both sides. Flying with a little brake applied will also help to prevent deflations and give you more
feedback about the air is doing and how the glider is reacting. Responding correctly to the paraglider's
movement by means of the brakes and weight shift is known as ‘active flying’. A pilot demonstrating
good active-flying skills will significantly reduce both the number and severity of collapses he or she
experiences.
Turning
Montana3 is very comfortable and pleasant in turns. Handling characteristics are responsive and
accurate and demand no special habits or non-standard procedures. When developing Montana3
special attention was devoted to the brake pressure. The result is that brake travel and pressure have
been optimised. Brake pressure is reassuringly progressive. In flight, brakes are firm but responsive and
precise and allow perfect communication with the canopy. You will find that a harness with fairly loose
cross-bracing will help the glider turn. In an emergency (e.g. a broken brake line) the glider can be
steered with the rear risers or by weight shift.
Using the speed system
Maximum speed is one of the strong points of Gradient paragliders and Montana3 is no exception. Not
only has the glider a very high maximum speed, but unlike some other paragliders the full speed range
is useable. 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 flying fast in
turbulence and be ready to release the speed system immediately at the first sign of a collapse. Use
the speed system very carefully, or not at all at low altitude.
5.1.4. Landing
Landing with Montana3 is very simple and shouldn’t cause any problem. On your first flights 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 around each control
line to enable a more dynamic flare.
