Using The Speed System - UP Ascent 4 Owner's Manual & Service Booklet

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BEWARE! Flying close to the stall point is very dangerous and should be avoided. At
speeds below minimum sink the danger of entering an unintentional stall or spin is
increased dramatically.

Using the Speed System

4
The UP Ascent is equipped with a very efficient speed system, working over a foot stirrup as
usual. By engaging the speed system the true air speed may be increased by around 11 to 13
km/h. Being familiar with the use of the speed system is an important skill to have in paragliding.
The speed system should be used when you are flying through sinking air, when trying to achieve
best glide in a headwind, or trying to cover the ground as quickly as possible. But it is important to
remember that the glider will be more susceptible to collapses at high speeds, so the speed
system should not be used in extreme turbulence. If a collapse occurs with the speed system
applied then it should be released immediately. Some warning of an imminent collapse is afforded
by the tension felt in the speed system; should the tension suddenly reduce then the stirrup
should be released and the glider returned to normal trim speed.
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
4
The UP Ascent 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
4
Ascent , 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 Ascent
and 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 Ascent
fast and steep turn, which can be made into a steep spiral (refer to chapter heading "steep
spiral").
Landing
4
The UP Ascent 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
4
The UP Ascent tows easily. There are no special techniques that need to be employed, but
consideration should be given to the following points:
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will turn very tight. To do this, apply some brake input on both sides,
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begins a
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