UP Makalu Light, Owner'S Manual And Service Manual

Page: 24 / 55

______________________________________________________________________________
24
BEWARE! All
extreme flight
situations, such as
collapses,
happen
more dramatically at
increased
speed.
Therefore the speed
system should not be operated
near the ground or in noticeable
turbulence.
Turning
The UP Makalu Light has been developed
to meet the demands of intermediate
pilots. The brakes have been designed so
that the first 15 to 20 cm of travel will
cause a soft and direct turning, whereas
larger movements will give the glider an
agile and nimble feel.
Brake input and amount of weight shift
induced will define the radius and bank
angle on the UP Makalu Light, and will
allow it to be controlled with ease. Using
weight shift in combination with brake
input will result in flat turns with minimum
height loss and is in fact always the most
efficient control method. The radius of the
turn is then controlled with the brake line
whereas the bank is controlled through
weight shift.
If needed the UP Makalu Light will turn
very tight. To do this, apply some brake
input on both sides, then release the
outside brake whilst applying further brake
on the inside
– this will reduce turning
radius to a minimum.
When brake input is increased beyond
approximately 50% on one side, the UP
Makalu Light begins a fast and steep turn,
which can be made into a steep spiral
(refer to chapter heading "steep spiral").
Landing
The UP Makalu Light is easy to land.
While pointing into the wind, the pilot
should
fly the wing fast until
approximately one meter above the
ground, and then apply both brakes
completely. When landing in stronger
wind, less brake is required. Landing
from steep turns should be avoided
due to the risk of an uncontrolled
pendulum reaction.
Winch towing
The UP Makalu Light tows easily.
There are no special techniques that
need
to be employed, but
consideration should be given to the
following points:

Especially when you are towing at
an unknown field, make sure that
you are fully aware of any local
conditions and peculiarities. Ask
the local pilots if you are at all
unsure.

During the launch, ensure that the
glider is completely inflated and
over your head before giving the
'start towing' signal. If the glider is
not central over your head do not
continue
with the tow. Any
corrections attempted through the
brakes during this critical phase
may result in the canopy deflating
again, or in the tow progressing
with a non-flying wing; if tow
tension is applied when the glider
is not correctly positioned then a
'lock out' or a stall could occur.

Try to avoid large brake inputs
until you are reasonably high.
Emphasize weight shift if course
correction is necessary close to
the ground.