Addition Of The Speed System; Operation In Flight; Standard Flight; Pre-Flight Check - Gradient Golden5 User Manual

Golden5 is equipped with a very effective foot-operated speed system as standard. Pressure on the
foot stirrup shortens the A and B risers and by this reduces the angle of attack of the canopy. Make
sure you can use the whole range when you attach your speed stirrup. For some pilots this will require
the use of a two-step speed stirrup.
This manual is intended as a guide to the characteristic features of your new Golden5 paraglider.
Under no circumstances should it be used as a 'learn-to-fly' manual for paragliding or as a substitute
for a paragliding training course.
Pre-flight check is essential part of getting ready to fly and that's why you should pay special attention
to it. Check the canopy and the lines for damage, clear the lines of any tangles, check the riser maillons,
speedbar connectors and don't forget to check your harness and your reserve parachute.
Before launch spread the canopy out into a slight arc and check that:

all cell openings are free

no lines are looped around or under the canopy

no lines are tangled or have a knot in them

any twigs, grass or other objects are not entangled in the lines or in the canopy

the risers are not twisted

the brake lines run freely through the pulleys

the knots on the brake handles are secure

the karabiners on the risers are tightened
Launching Golden5 is straightforward, either by front launch or by reverse launch. A dynamic pull of
the front risers (A, coloured red) will bring the canopy simply and easily above the pilot's head. The
canopy inflates from the centre equally and smoothly. The Golden5 has no tendency to outrun the pilot
and quickly stabilises above the pilot. Once there, visually check the canopy and the lines before taking
off. Take off can be made easier by a light pull on the brakes.
Golden5 is trimmed to fly at best glide when the brakes are fully up. Best sink rate is achieved when
both brakes are drawn down evenly to about 10-15% of their range.
When flying through severe turbulence, stabilise the canopy with simultaneously applying a little brake
to both sides. Flying with a little brake applied will also help to prevent deflations and give you more
feedback about the air is doing and how the glider is reacting. Responding correctly to the paraglider's
movement by means of the brakes and weight shift is known as 'active flying'. A pilot demonstrating
good active-flying skills will significantly reduce both the number and severity of collapses he or she
experiences.
Golden5 is very comfortable and pleasant in turns. Handling characteristics are responsive and accurate
and demand no special habits or non-standard procedures. When developing Golden5 special attention
was devoted to the brake pressure. The result is that brake travel and pressure have been optimised.
Brake pressure is reassuringly progressive. In flight, brakes are firm but responsive and precise and
allow perfect communication with the canopy. You will find that a harness with fairly loose cross-
Pilot's manual for Golden5

4.2. Addition of the speed system

5. OPERATION IN FLIGHT

5.1. Standard flight

5.1.1. Pre-flight check

5.1.2. Launch

5.1.3. Flight

Flying in turbulent conditions
Turning
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