Introduction; Your Paraglider; Technical Description - Gradient GOLDEN3 User Manual

Pilot´s manual GOLDEN 3

1. INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on buying your new GRADIENT GOLDEN3!
After the worldwide success of the Golden2, Gradient's new intermediate glider the
Golden3 has been certified EN-B, LTF 1/2.
The Golden3 was designed to be a direct replacement for the Golden2 and in terms
of pilot skill it is not any more demanding to fly. The Golden3 is classified as an
'intermediate' paraglider (EN-B, LTF 1/2) and is therefore meant for a wide cross-
section of pilots: from talented new pilots to time-served experts who, for whatever
reason, don't fly often and therefore demand not just high performance, but also
exceptional safety from their paraglider.
However, the Golden3 is also a completely new wing, the final result of developing
and testing several different prototypes. For example, the glider has a new profile,
which helps the wing perform better at different angles of attack. And when it comes
to handling, the Gradient team has achieved a sensitive, Sports Class characteristic,
to give maximum pilot feedback. The Golden3 pilot will find they can react precisely
to thermals, the movement of the air and turbulence.
Like all Gradient paragliders the Golden3 has a typical Gradient wing construction.
This reduces the glider's weight, and further improves the wing's flying characteristics
in extreme manoeuvres, turbulent air and thermals.
We believe that you will love your new glider's flight characteristics and
construction.
This manual provides information which will help you fly safely and keep your wing
in good condition. If, after reading this booklet, you have any further questions or
uncertainties, please do not hesitate to contact Gradient directly or any authorised
Gradient dealer and we will gladly answer all your questions.
When you have become familiar with your Golden3 we would welcome any feedback
that you might have about your new paraglider.

2. YOUR PARAGLIDER

2.1. Technical description

• The Golden3 has a new elliptical shape that includes a slightly positive
contortion of the leading edge. This means that the „ears" (stabilo) of the
canopy are slightly swept back in flight.
• The Golden3 has a new aerofoil section to achieve the optimal balance
between performance and stability. The aerofoil's characteristics deliver
maximum stability over as wide a speed range as possible.
http: www.gradient.cx mail: gradient@gradient.cx
Prepared January 2010
tel., fax: +420 257 216 319