Niviuk PEAK 4, User Manual

Page: 12 / 24

12
The PEAK 4 has a relatively short brake travel and it should be noted that
by reaching for the 3a3 line to make ears it is possible to apply brake
pressure without realizing it. The same happens whilst pulling down the
3a3 line to make the ears. This can obviously lead to a significant speed
decrease.
The PEAK 4 has a new high arch concept and applying ears induces
more resistance. With this new arch, the ears don’t stick but they do tend
to “hang”. Because of this, there will be more resistance, compared to
ears on a standard glider.
The PEAK 4 is designed with little cord, which is good in normal flight
conditions. However on the other hand the glider could get into trouble
when recovering normal speed if it is allowed ears and achieve an
extreme angle of incidence.
These are 3 particularities, which together with turbulent conditions could
cause an unintentional stall.
The solution: big ears may still be applied but the pilot must be fully
aware of the above-mentioned points and act accordingly. To avoid the
stall simply use the accelerator halfway (this is sufficient) to increase
the speed, which naturally rises the speed and decreases the angle of
incidence. In this way you will maintain a safe margin and avoid this
phenomenon. Take care not to pull the brakes while making the ears!!
5.2 B3 TECHNIQUE – 2c3 on the PEAK 4
On the new generation paragliders the application of big ears can create
a high degree of trailing turbulence which in turn creates a significant
loss of airspeed. When big ears are applied to high aspect ratio wings
the ears tend to “flap” which also adds to the amount of unwanted
turbulence.
This new rapid descent technique was first discovered by our Niviuk
team Pilots in 2009 while flying a competition prototype wing, which
because of its line plan and high aspect ratio would not allow big ears
to be applied. In fact big ears on wings with a profile of 2 lines can often
prove difficult.
For all these reasons, we advise the use of the new B3 line descent
technique-2c3 on the PEAK 4. This technique ensures a rapid descent
is achieved whilst forward wing speed is maintained and so the risk of a
deep stall is eliminated.
HOW?
Locate the 2c3 on your risers and as you would when applying big ears
simply pull down firmly and smoothly until you see both wingtips drop
back slightly. The forward speed of the glider speed will then reduce
slightly, quickly stabilize and then increase. You will then experience
a fall rate of around 5-6m/s. Controlled turning of the wing can easily
be maintained by weight shifting the harness, exactly the same as you
would with big ears. We recommend the application of the speed bar
whilst using this technique. To exit the maneuver release the lines as you
would with big ears, control the pitch and the wing will quickly adopt
normal flight.
This new technique allows a comfortable and controllable rapid descent
without the risk of experiencing a “cravat” or “deep stall”.
We advise you to first try this technique in smooth conditions with
sufficient altitude above appropriate terrain.
5.3 B-LINE STALL
This maneuver is not possible with this wing.
5.4 SPIRAL DIVE
This is a more effective way for rapidly losing height. You have to
know that, the wing can gain a lot of vertical speed and rotation speed
(G force). This can cause a loss of orientation and consciousness