The Addict is a high aspect ratio, performance-oriented paraglider
and is intended for experienced pilots who have a good feel and
understanding of paragliders and active flying.
You will notice the good feeling of lift and speed of the Addict; on
glides it remains solid and well pressured even through the
accelerated speed range as it has a very high resistance to collapses.
The handling characteristics of the Addict are truly amazing. We have
worked a lot on tuning the wing so that it turns tightly but also
efficiently, as the ability to climb in a turn is very important for XC
and thermal flying.
To get the most out of your Addict we advise you to consider the
following information.
Flying at 'trim speed' (hands-up), the Addict will achieve its 'best
glide' speed for normal air. You should fly at this speed when gliding
downwind or when the air is not excessively sinking.
For better penetration in headwinds and improved glide performance
in sinking air, crosswinds or headwinds, you should fly faster than
trim speed by using the accelerator system. Using up to half bar does
not degrade the glide angle or stability significantly and will improve
your flying performance, as you will reach the next thermal faster
and higher. At full speed the Addict is stable; however we recommend
that you do not fly at full speed close to the ground or in turbulence.
By applying the brakes approximately 30cm, the Addict will achieve
its minimum-sink rate; this is the speed for best climb and is the
speed to use for thermalling and ridge soaring.
To familiarize yourself with the Addict your first turns should be
gradual and progressive.
To make efficient and coordinated turns with the Addict first look in
the direction you want to go, then lean into it. Your first input for
directional change should be weight-shift, followed by the smooth
application of the brake until the desired bank angle is achieved. To
regulate the speed and radius of the turn, coordinate your weight
shift and use the outer brake.
To minimize the likelihood of suffering collapses in turbulent
conditions, it is essential to use active flying.
All good pilots react to the feedback the gliders send them, and are
constantly adjusting their speed and pitch to match the movements
of the air. The key elements of active flying are pitch control and
pressure control:
As the glider pitches in front of you, use the brakes to slow it down.
Equally, as the glider drops behind you, release the brakes to allow it
to speed up.
Flying with a bit of brake applied (approx. 20cm) will give you
feedback from the wing. In turbulent conditions the internal pressure
of the wing can change and you can feel this through the brakes. The
aim is to maintain a constant pressure through the brakes. If you feel
a loss in pressure apply the brakes until normal pressure is resumed
then raise hands back to original position (this must be done quickly).
Avoid flying with continuous amounts of brake in rough air as you
could inadvertently stall the wing. Always consider your airspeed.
These movements can be symmetric or asymmetric; you may have
to apply both brakes or just one. These subtle adjustments will keep
the glider flying smoothly and directly above you and dramatically
reduce the chances of a collapse. These are skills that are best learnt
by playing with the glider on the ground!