Advance acoustic ALPHA 7 Manual page 13

The ALPHA 7 rises exceptionally easily, so it is very important that you
match your pull up technique to the weather conditions and the steep-
ness of the slope . This means:
In a lot of wind and/or on steep ground the ALPHA 7 needs little or
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almost no initial tug ( just lead it up ) .
In zero wind and/or on flat ground a more reasonable impulse would
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be sensible .
Takeoff in light wind ( forward takeoff )
The ALPHA 7 only needs a moderate pull-up impulse even in a light
wind . It is not necessary to step back and 'run into the lines' . Guide
the glider up with pronounced leaning forward, but without too much
of a pull on the A-risers, until the canopy is overhead . During the pull-
up phase any directional correcting should only be done by decisive
going-under-the-wing, without using the brakes . After any necessary
corrections and a satisfactory visual check a few determined steps
with good leaning forward will achieve lift off, even in little wind . Careful
braking can shorten the takeoff run .
Takeoff in stronger wind ( reverse takeoff )
The reverse takeoff is mainly recommended for stronger winds . Like
the forward takeoff we recommend that you use both ALPHA 7 risers .
During the pull-up you should walk towards the ALPHA 7 as necessary
to control its rising rate . Turning round and taking off with the ALPHA 7
will then prove to be easy .
Tip: Playing with the glider on flat ground in some wind gives a
good feeling for the wing . You can get to know the ALPHA 7's
characteristics very well, and try out takeoffs, stalling, shoot-
ing forward tendency and collapses – while remaining safely on
the ground . The ADVANCE test team have a motto: one hour's
ground training is worth 10 high flights . But bear in mind that
ground practice puts use on the glider
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