LITESPEED RX
OWNERS MANUAL
26
Version 2
Body Position
The most vital thing for a pilot to do in heavy turbulence is to maintain a strong grip on
the control bar. The pilot remains safest when the control bar is held tight and close to
the body at or just below the pilot’s chest. If extreme turbulence is encountered the pilot
should apply a force pulling his/her body toward the base bar. This means that if a sudden
weightless or negative G situation occurs, the pilot can stay pinned to the base bar
achieving a forward centre of gravity that greatly aids in producing a quick recovery.
VG in Turbulence
Most high performance hang gliders produce a stronger positive pitch moment through
negative angles with a loose VG setting as opposed to a tight setting. The least amount
of positive pitch moment generally occurs with VG 3/4 tight. The Litespeed RX’s
compensator system allows the glider to produce a particularly strong pitching moment in
the loose VG settings. If a significant amount of turbulence is encountered it is best to
release the VG to full loose or 1/4 VG. While in turbulence make sure you keep a very
firm grip on the control bar and do not sacrifice this strong grip to release the VG. It is
best to wait for a safe moment and then release.
When leaving a strong thermal one can expect turbulence at the edge of the thermal.
Many pilots like to pull 3/4 VG to exit the thermal, however it must be remembered that
this is the VG setting that produces the lowest positive pitch moment at negative angles.
Many situations occur during regular flying when a pilot will enter pre-recognised
turbulence, such as entering a strong thermal or entering the lee side of a mountain. The
pilot can greatly increase his safety by entering this foreseen turbulence with an
appropriate VG setting.
Flying the Litespeed RX in Rain
Flying in rain can cause significant changes in glider behaviour. We strongly advise that
you avoid deliberately flying in rain. As water beads up on the leading edge, the stall
characteristics of the wing begin to change. If rain is encountered while flying your
Litespeed RX, keep airspeed well above stall, especially near the ground. If the wing
stalls you may need a significant pull in of the bar to lower the angle of attack enough to
restore normal airflow. When landing, avoid any turns close to the ground, as a wet
glider will lose significantly more height in a turn. Fly a faster final approach than normal,
and be ready to flare aggressively as soon as the wing begins to stall.
