ICARO paragliders Nikita 5, Manual

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Page 10
Deep/Parachute Stall
Avoid flying in very humid air or in rain. A wet canopy may have very unpredictable
flying characteristics, one of which is a radically increased risk of deep stall!
The brake line travel becomes very short and even small input may suddenly
induce an airflow separation; in some cases even a gust or a sudden thermal may
change the angle of incidence enough to cause the deep stall.
If you find yourself flying in unavoidable rain we strongly recommend that
you avoid any sudden movements or radical brake line input, that you do not
pull Big Ears or B-Line-Stall, and that you steer clear of turbulence and avoid
a deep flare on landing.
Emergency Steering
Should it no longer be possible to steer your NIKITA 5 , for example due to a
broken line, the glider may be steered by gently pulling on either back riser.
Handling will be more direct so being careful not to pull too hard. A good
way to get practice is during ground handling.
Care instructions, repairs, inspection
Care Instructions
•
Even with good care and maintenance, just like any item exposed to the
elements, your glider can wear out after a certain amount of use. This can
change flight behavior and safety. We recommend a regular safety inspection
of the canopy and all lines.
•
If you clean your glider it is best to use warm water and a soft sponge.
•
Store your glider in a dry and dark place, ideally between 5° and 30° Celsius
and humidity between 55 and 65%. Do not store it near chemicals or petrol.
•
If you will not fly for longer period, store the glider releasing all compression
straps and take it out of its backpack so that the fabric is not compressed,
creased or stretched.
•
Avoid storing your glider for days at a time in a hot car.
•
Unpack your paraglider shortly before launch and pack away immediately after
landing to avoid any unnecessary UV exposure.
•
When unfolding the paraglider insure that neither the canopy nor the lines
become too dirty. Dirt particles can damage the material and lines.
•
Never use chemical cleaning agents, brushes or hard sponges on the material,
as these destroy the coating and affect the strength. Also avoid dipping it in a
swimming pool; the chlorine will damage the cloth. The canopy will become
porous and will lose structural strength.
•
Never attempt to clean your paraglider in a washing machine. Even without
using detergents the simple mechanical abrasion will quickly finish the canopy
and render it useless.
•
If you are flying near the sea most the wing may age faster because the air is
humid and salty. In this case we suggest you have it checked more often than
prescribed in this manual.
•
If you must rinse or clean your glider do so with fresh water. Frequent cleaning
will accelerate the ageing process .