Niviuk LINK 2, User Manual

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speed decrease.
In paragliders with a very pronounced arc, pulling big ears means an
increase in drag. On a very arched wing, the ears do not fold, they just
hang. The increase of drag is more pronounced than on wings with a less
pronounced arc.
The LINK 2 is designed with little chord, which is good in normal flight
conditions. However, this same damping is what can cause us to have
problems to regain normal flying speed after a high increase of the angle
of attack and the added drag of the ears. These particularities, together
with turbulent thermic conditions, could cause an unintentional stall.
The solution: big ears may still be applied but you must be fully aware
of the above-mentioned points and act accordingly. To avoid the stall,
simply use half speed-bar (this is sufficient) to increase the speed and
decrease the angle of incidence. This should allow you to maintain
sufficient speed to prevent the stall. Take care not to pull the brakes while
making the ears as this will make a stall more likely!
5.2 B-LINE STALL
When carrying out this manoeuvre, the wing stops flying, loses all
horizontal speed and the pilot is no longer in control of the paraglider.
The airflow over the profile is interrupted and the wing enters a situation
similar to parachuting.
To enter this manoeuvre, the B-risers are gripped below the maillons and
symmetrically pulled down together (approx. 20-30 cm) and maintained
in that position.
Initiating the maneuver is physically demanding because it can take
some strength to pull the risers down until the wing is deformed. After
this, the physical effort is less. Continue to hold the risers in position.
Once the wing is deformed, its horizontal speed will drop to 0 km/h;
vertical descending speed increases to –6 to –8 m/s, depending on the
conditions and how the manoeuvre is performed.
To exit the manoeuvre, simultaneously release both risers. The wing will
then slightly surge forward and automatically return to normal flight. It is
better to let go of the lines quickly rather than slowly.
This is an easy descent technique to perform, but remember that
the wing will stop flying, will lose all forward horizontal speed, and
its reactions will change markedly when compared to a normal flight
configuration.
5.3 SPIRAL DIVE
This is a more effective way to rapidly lose altitude. Beware that the wing
will experience and be subjected to a tremendous amount of descending
and rotating speed (g-force), which can cause a loss of orientation and
consciousness (blackout). This manoeuvre must therefore be done
gradually to increase one’s capacity to resist the g-force exerted on
the body. With practise, you will fully appreciate and understand it.
Only practise this manoeuvre at high altitude and with enough ground
clearance.
To start the manoeuvre, first weight shift and pull the brake handle
located on the inner side of the turn. The intensity of the turn can be
controlled by braking slightly using the outer brake handle.
A paraglider flying at its maximum rotating speed can reach –20 m/s, or
the equivalent of a 70 km/h vertical descent, and will stabilise in a spiral
dive from 15m/s onwards.
Good enough reasons to familiarise yourself with the manoeuvre and
understand how to exit it.