Niviuk ROLLER, User Manual

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To activate the ‘Big ears’ manoeuvre, take the outer ‘3 A 2’ line on
each A-riser and simultaneously, smoothly pull them outward and
downward. The wingtips will fold in. Let go of the risers to re-inflate
them automatically. If they do not re-inflate, gently pull on one of the
brake lines and then on the opposite one. We recommend inflating the
wing tips asymmetrically, without major change to the angle of attack,
especially when flying near the ground or flying in turbulence.
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 grabbed below the maillons
and symmetrically pulled down together (approx. 20-30 cm) and
then held to this position. The initial phase is quite physical (high pull
resistance) requiring a strong tug until the wing’s profile/chord deforms in
an accordion-like shape. The initial pulling force will then be significantly
lessened. Holding the ‘B’ lines in the pulled down position will be
necessary to maintain the configuration. The wing will then deform, its
horizontal speed will drop to 0 km/h, vertical descending speed increase
to –6 to –8 m/s depending on the weather conditions and how the
manoeuvre was 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
escape manoeuvre to do, but remember that the wing will stop flying,
will lose all forward horizontal speed, and its reactions will change
significantly when compared to normal flight configuration.
5.3 SPIRAL DIVE
This is a more effective way for 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 practice, a pilot will fully appreciate and understand it. Only
practice this at high altitude and with enough ground clearance.
To enter the manoeuvre, the pilot will need to synchronise weight-shift
with a gradual brake pull toward the inside of the intended turn. The
intensity of the rotation can be controlled by applying a slight brake line
pull on the upper and opposite half side of the wing.
A paraglider flying at its maximum rotating speed can reach –20 m/s,
equivalent 70 km/h vertical descending speed, and a stabilised spiral
dive will reach from 15 m/s onwards.
These are the reasons why any pilot should become familiar with the
manoeuvre and know how to properly exit it.
To exit this manoeuvre, the inner brake (down side of the turn) must be
progressively relaxed while momentarily applying tension to the outer
brake opposite to the turn. The pilot must also weight shift and lean
towards the opposite side of the turn at the same time. This exit needs to
be carried out gradually and smoothly to feel the g force and adapt to the
speed changes taking place.
When exiting the spiral, the glider will briefly experience an asymmetrical
acceleration and dive, depending on how the manoeuvre was carried out.
Practice these manoeuvres at sufficient altitude and with moderation.