Ozone SwiftMax, Manual

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BASIC FLIGHT TECHNIQUES
EN
11
10
Launching
Your SwiftMAX will launch with either the forward or reverse technique. The wing should be laid out in a
pronounced arc, with the centre of the wing higher than the tips.
Forward Launch
-
Nil to Light winds
When the wind is favourable, whilst gently holding the A risers move forward positively, your lines should
become tight within one or two steps and the SwiftMAX will immediately start to inflate. You should
maintain a constant pressure on the risers until the wing is overhead. Do not pull down or push the risers
forward excessively, or the leading edge will deform and possibly collapse making taking-off more difficult
and potentially dangerous.
Move smoothly throughout the entire launch, there is no need to rush or snatch at it. You should have
plenty of time to look up and check your canopy before committing yourself. Once you are happy that the
SwiftMAX is inflated correctly, accelerate smoothly off the launch.
Reverse Launch
-
Light to Strong Winds
Lay out your wing as you would for the forward launch. However, this time turn to face it, passing one
entire set of risers over your head as you turn. Now you can inflate the glider with your body weight and
the A-risers. Once the wing is overhead, release the risers, brake gently if necessary, turn and launch.
In stronger winds, be prepared to take a few steps towards the glider as it inflates. This will take some of
the energy out of the glider and it will be less likely to overfly you. This reverse-launch technique can be
used in surprisingly light winds too.
Practice ground handling as much as possible! Not only is it great fun, but it will give you a much better
feel for your wing’s flight characteristics. It will also improve your overall enjoyment of flying by giving you
the feeling of control and making your launches easier and less stressful.
Speed to Fly
Flying at the white line trimmer setting, the SwiftMAX will achieve its ‘best glide’ speed for still air. You
should fly at this speed when gliding or when the air is not excessively sinking.
For better penetration in headwinds and improved glide performance in sinking air, crosswinds or
headwinds, you should fly faster by releasing the trimmers. Releasing up to half of the trim range does
not degrade the glide angle or stability significantly and will improve your XC flying performance. You
will reach the next thermal faster and higher. At full speed - when the trimmers are fully released - the
SwiftMAX is stable, however we recommend that you do not fly at full speed close to the ground or in
turbulent air.
The sink rate and brake pressure are reduced with the trimmers in the fully slow position, this speed
should be used when ridge soaring or thermalling. However if you are flying near the bottom of the weight
range it is recommended to keep speed in reserve and not fly with the trimmers set too slow. By applying
the brakes approximately 30cm, the SwiftMAX will achieve its minimum-sink rate; this is the speed for best
climb and is the speed to use for thermalling, gliding downwind in lifting air or ridge soaring.
Whilst making the landing approach it is recommended to return the trimmers to the white line position.
Turning
To familiarize yourself with the SwiftMAX your first turns should be gradual and progressive. To make
efficient and coordinated turns with the SwiftMAX first look in the direction you want to go, then lean into
it. Your first input for directional change should be weight-shift, followed by the smooth application of the
brake until the desired bank angle is achieved. To regulate the speed and radius of the turn, coordinate
your weight shift and use the outer brake.
IMPORTANT
Never initiate a turn at
minimum speed (i.e.
with full brakes on) as
you could risk entering
a spin.
IMPORTANT
In turbulent conditions
return the trimmers to
the white line position
IMPORTANT
Never take off with
a glider that is not
fully inflated or if you
are not in control of
the pitch/roll of your
wing.
NOTE
It is recommended
to pilot the wing with
the rear risers during
accelerated flight.