New 3-Line Technology:
Ozone is currently nearing completion with the Mantra2, their next high performance serial class wing. An evolution of the Mantra, Ozone says the Mantra 2 is similar in that it has the same excellent handling and user-friendly feel. The big difference is that the Mantra2 is being developed with true 3-Line technology, which Ozone has been experimenting with since the X-Alps of 2003. Combined with an all new internal structure, the Mantra2 has 90 meters less lines than the Mantra! The M size prototype currently has just 290 meters of total line, which Ozone says is a drastic reduction in drag. Other changes include an aspect ratio of 6.22, a new planform to increase stability and performance at speed, and special span-wise reinforcement to moderate sail tension.

+Info: www.flyozone.com

After the success of their Magus protos in the last Europeans, very well handled by top pilots like female Champion Petra Krausova and Thomas Brauner (3rd overall), Mac Para announces the release of the Magus 5 for October. The new race machine benefits from the results of 8 different prototypes flown by test pilots during this season, and one of the main differences with the Magus 4 is a higher aspect ratio and less lines. Protos with 3 and 4 row line systems were tested and compared, and the 4-lines system proved to offer better characteristics. The Magus 5 has a similar planform to its predecessor “with very small changes”, a new airfoil and different wingtips. The result is a glider with “very good climbing performance, good stability, extraordinary gliding, and high maximum speed” according to Mac Para. The Magus 5 will be available in four sizes to cover a weight range from 75 to 130 kg.

+Info: www.macpara.com

The much awaited high-performance glider from the Swiss factory has been just certified in DHV2-3 class and is now in production. Based on the World Champion proto, the Omega 7 has a noticeable high arch of the canopy that makes it “inherently more stable and able to be flown faster without collapsing, even in turbulent air”, according to Advance. As a result, the OMEGA 7 also has a significantly higher aspect ratio than its predecessor for higher performance. It also incorporates a “carefully calculated” profile and competition lines. The manufacturer claims a glide ratio of 10:1 and an “exceptional glide angle” in the upper speed range, plus the “familiar, direct Advance handling”. The Speed Performance Indicator (SPI) also helps experienced pilots to choose the optimum speed. The Omega 7 is equipped with a variable transfer speed system that enables shortening or lengthening of the speed bar extension range and pressure to suit the user’s anatomical position. This new model is the first to feature a new fabric developed exclusively for Advance in collaboration with Porcher Sport as well as special coated lines developed with Liros, UV resistant. Other details include sewn-in compression and Mylar straps for better stability of the canopy, partially closed cells for higher internal pressure, winglets to reduce drag (vortex effect), velcro closures on the wingtips to remove debris from the glider, swivels on the steering lines, and different brake handles with magnetic clips depending on the canopy size. The Omega 7 is available in 4 sizes and 3 color schemes.

+Info: www.advance.ch

The Targa 3 is the latest flagship from the UP R&D department, aimed at competition and high level pilots. UP incorporated a number of innovations and technical features in it to obtain a race machine that’s “more docile to fly than its already impressive predecessor, which translates into easy, stress-free flying regardless of the conditions”, according to them. One new feature is the “Brake Tension System” (BTS), which gives variable trailing edge tension and it helps refine the handling, improves the feedback through the brakes and makes the wing respond better to brake line input. Another Targa 3 feature is the new trimmer system with two trim options; one to adjust pitch and one to improve glide at very high speeds. The pilot adjusts these two systems for the type of flying he prefers: Slow and flat intermediate style or fast and dynamic with lots of roll. The risers are a new development focused on improving glide at very high speeds. When the speed bar is applied, a system of pulleys and lines change the angle of incidence without disrupting the profile. In flight, these features translate into a trim speed from 37 to 43km/h (variable through the new riser system); “useable” top speed well above 60km/h; very easy inflation / launching; variable A-line tension for either extra speed or extra stability; BTS variable trailing edge tension system for “the best handling and safety ever” in a comp wing; Predictable and easy collapse characteristics with no tendency to cravatte, and a very clearly defined stall point; extremely stable canopy through the use of the latest CAD software; super light speedbar travel for easy high-speed gliding and unbelievable glide ratio; and precise, easy handling. The Targa 3 is available in 9 sizes and a wide choice of colors.

+Info: www.up-paragliders.com

The new DHV2 model from the Czech manufacturer Mac Para was made for experienced cross country pilots “looking for relaxed flying”. At MAC PARA say that the Envy has the same stability of their successful Eden 3 (DHV1-2) with higher maximum speed and performance, and a more precise handling. The slim elliptical form of the canopy has an aspect ratio of 5.71. The Envy has 56 cells with full diagonals. Lines are attached to every third rib and this construction allows the lines to be reduced to two tiers. According to the manufacturer, the glider is undemanding and resistant to collapse even in rough air. “The moderate brake pressure allows pleasant turns with good climbing performance and increases progressively towards the end of its travel to offer safety reserves. The canopy is moderately damped in all axes and offers flexibility and agility in turns. It does not overshoot or sit back”. Other flying characteristics claimed by Mac Para are smooth and predictable reopening after a collapse, easy inflation and launch, and easy landings. The Envy was designed to “Fly In Peace“, and passed certification is sizes 25,27 and 30 (23 in process). The Envy is available in 4 sizes and 6 color schemes.

+Info: www.macpara.com

The replacement of the Syntax is a low-level 1-2 paraglider aimed at beginners as well as experienced pilots “in search of maximum safety and minimum stress”. The Rookie keeps some features from its predecessor like the airfoil, planform, cell number and line length, but introduces a new wing curve, more sail tension and new brake geometry for a more agile handling without any negative effects on the damping behavior, according to Nova. The number of lines has been reduced for less drag and improved performance, especially in thermalling. The upper sail is made from 40g/sqm cloth which helps reduce the weight of the glider and improve takeoffs and safety. At Nova say that the Rookie offers agile handling combined with a very long brake travel, performance above the Syntax and a huge security potential. “The collapses are soft and all maneuvers are very safe”, which makes it a perfect glider for beginners. The Rookie is available in 5 sizes and 4 colors.

+Info: www.nova-wings.com

After “countless” prototypes and two years of experimenting, this new high performance wing for powered flight comes to replace the popular Action and it is introduced as an “all in one wing” for both powered and gliding flight. The Action GT has a wide speed range as its most outstanding characteristic, with a top speed of 65k/h and high stability thanks to a new “highly sophisticated” reflex aerofoil section, carefully manipulated by a unique semi-ridged trim and intricate D-line gathering system. The Action GT incorporates a centre keel that combined with the lines lay out allow weight shift “without wing distortion whilst giving excellent directional stability and a stiff, controllable structure”, according to Paramania. The keel also re-directs the span wise airflow, reducing drag and further enhancing performance. Another new feature is the inner ribs structure with inclined oval holes for better load distribution and diagonal rib shaping, which gives a “super smooth” top surface. The new creature from the father of reflex technology Mike Campbell-Jones offers extremely smooth, precise and efficient handling to “carve your way through the air”. The Action GT is available in 3 sizes that cover the weight range from 65 to 175 kg, and 2 color schemes. ridge

+Info: www.flyparamania.com

Four years after the birth of the Brontes, the Czech manufacturer have a replacement for their most popular glider. Aimed at intermediate to advance pilots who love distance flying, the Brontes 2 offers “maximum passive safety that lets the pilots use the performance limits with no fear of trouble”, according to Sky. The wing introduces a new profile, different shape and wingtips, a new more efficient speed system, lighter ribs concept (the glider is around 650 gr lighter than the old Brontes) and a leading edge that uses “new technologies”. In the air, this sport glider is said to be very stable and easy to handle in thermals “and almost intuitive coring”, with a comfortable and precise handling. The Brontes 2 also offers improvements in the speed range, with a “remarkable” top speed and better glide performance. Like the first one, the Brontes 2 is suitable for paramotoring for high performance and competition pilots, as it is rated Afnor Performance. It is available in 4 sizes and 5 color schemes.

+Info: www.skyparagliders.cz

This new “good friend” for new and recreational pilots is defined as a “secure step in to the intermediate class of Paraglider”, a glider designed to make flying stress-free and effortless. Based on the Wave, “a perfect starting block”, the whole cut of the sail was redesigned and some new line materials were introduced to reduce drag and add more performance. Developed on the newest software, the Kiss has a clean sail with more tension on the leading edge and a smoother, cleaner profile. The diagonal structure is a new partial length structure that aids pitch stability, saves weight, reduces the inertia of the wing and aids re-inflation after closures. A centre rib rather than a 'weightshift cell' was used for stability in roll: the centre rib is linked to the cells either side by diagonal ribs and controls the effect of weight-shift on the wing. According to Airwave, the Kiss is easy to launch and ground handle, offers a low stall speed and wide speed range with a light progressive handling and ‘auto-centering' in thermals, it has exceptional pitch stability for calm and reassuring flights, and a great glide performance. It is available in 3 sizes..

+Info: www.airwave-gliders.com

Designed for cross country and competition, the new DHV2-3 glider in the Gin's range is based on the Boom 4; it has an aspect ratio of 6,2 and a big arc with square tips. The Boomerang Sport incorporates Gin's patented Rigifoil System in the leading edge, and “a unique acceleration system” called Kick-Down System that offers the pilot increased feedback through the speed bar pressure. “ At 50% acceleration there is marked increase in pressure to alert the pilot of his position along the polar curve, helping the pilot to be more aware of the incidence of the wing and therefore glide performance ” say at the Korean company. The Boomerang Sport offers “very easy” inflation, precise feedback and a compact sensation for the pilot, “creating a comfortable, safe and stable feeling”. The new high performance model is also described as a glider much easier, more precise and dynamic to handle than a competition wing. The Boomerang Sport is constructed using the latest Porcher fabrics and Liros lines. It is available in 4 sizes and 4 color schemes.

+Info: www.gingliders.com

The new model in UP's ‘Fun&Easy' Category is an advanced DHV 1-2 designed for “stress-free flying”. Keeping the spirit of the first Kantega, this new glider has benefited from technical features introduced in UP's high performance gliders, such as the brake line attachment system along the trailing edge. The variable trailing edge tension provided by the system translates into “precise, crisp handling, improved glide performance and increased safety” according to the manufacturer. This way, the Kantega 2 offers the safety of the DHV 1-2 class but with a “pro” feel, and the performance of higher-rated gliders. UP paid special attention to the look of their new intermediate model: “Elongated, smoothly curved dihedral shape, swept-back tips and the new UP look where the graphic design underlines the sporty outline”. Trim speed is announced at 36-37 km/h, top speed at +50km/h “with high collapse resistance”. Other features include a new load bearing tape along the A-line attachment points; new riser system for improved glide at speed; and new, thinner Dyneema lines from Cousin for longevity, reduced drag and higher performance. The Kantega 2 is available in 5 sizes, and you can customize the glider colors to your own preferences.

+Info: www.up-paragliders.com

The new high performance glider from Airwave includes many of the technical innovations from their race machine, the Magic FR2. The main characteristic of the new Magic is the use of only 3 rows of lines all the way from the glider down to the risers, which means significantly less drag and more performance. It took Airwave's R&D team five years to develop the 3-line concept into a glider with good safety and handling. The result is a reduction of 70 meters of lines, better performance and also higher stability in flight, according to the manufacturer. With 67 cells and an aspect ratio of 6,22, the manufacturer's data quotes trim speed at 39k/h, with 55k/h top speed and a glide over 10. Like the FR2, it has a 5-riser system with 12mm Kevlar reinforced webbing and progressive closed cells, for smooth and progressive inflation and higher inner pressure at all speeds. The wing is made of a hybrid mixture of cloths, with Gelvenor on the leading edge of the top surface and lightweight Porcher on the back part and the lower surface. This produces a light and long lasting glider. The Magic 4 is available in 4 sizes.

+Info: www.airwave-gliders.com

Based on the same proven reflex-wing concept of the popular PPG wing Action (from Dudek and Paramania), the ReAction is a technically improved and graphically renewed version aimed at advanced pilots. In comparison to its predecessor, the ReAction is a bit faster, inflates easier and has improved wing durability and ease of use. Like its ancestor, the Reaction features a self-stabilizing wing section that, in the case of a decrease in its angle of attack, automatically responds to compensate. “In other words it always stays neutral with regard to its load, so it's tuck-resistant. And as you well know, the funny thing is that the faster you fly the more comfort you have” say at the Polish company. The risers now have two suspension points (low and high) to adjust to the pilot's harness/engine setup, and come with new trimmer buckles and exchangeable trimmer tapes. It has partially closed leading edge with 65 cells, an aspect ratio of 5,43, and top speed is 60 k/h, with 42-46 k/h trim speed, according to Dudek. It is also available in a 'S' version, equipped with non-sheathed lines in the upper rigging, and a trike version called “ Reaction Cabrio ” for a weight range of 150 to 300 kg. For foot-launch flight there are 4 sizes to choose from.

+Info: http://www.dudek.com.pl

A completely new tandem wing designed for professional tandem pilots, the Magnum replaces the McDaddy in the Ozone range. Easy and smooth inflation even in high winds is one of its advantages, but the manufacturer also underlines its stability in pitch and roll for comfortable flights, and the “trademark Ozone handling for precise and dynamic piloting”. It has a size of 41 m2, an aspect ratio of 5.11 and 46 cells –for a clean sail design and efficient performance, with benign launch characteristics and a lightweight sail design. The Magnum's profile is a new design, and both the planform and sail tension have been created specially for comfortable brake pressure, easy launches, and performance, according to Ozone. The canopy is made of Porcher Marine cloth, with the new Porcher Skytex 45 Evolution on the topsail -a new material “extremely durable” and stretch resistant, for a more precise feeling in flight and a more durable glider. Weight range for the Magnum is 130-220kg.

+Info: www.flyozone.com

The new Prymus was one of the gliders tested during the 2005 Northeast Expedition in Brazil, to obtain a model not only to be used by schools and beginners, but a glider that would allow the pilot to feel “the magic of flying” and stay for hours in the air, achieve distance flights and -with some time- start free style flights. The Prymus 2 has an elliptical planform with a lightly positive arrow shape, and 39 cells for an “extra straight side, exactness in the airfoil and a consolidated stability” according to the manufacturer. The Prymus 2 also features a higher projected aspect ratio; a new profile chosen for maximum stability, and a more refined construction for this class. Other characteristics include easy inflation and takeoff; long and tolerant brake length; precise handling; high internal pressure; stability even in high speed; light reactions during extreme maneuvers; good passive safety; and “great behavior” in thermals. The Prymus 2 is made in Gelvenor cloth with Cousin lines, it has a 3-years/300 hours warranty, and it is available in 4 sizes.

+Info: www.solparagliders.com.br

The new top-end DHV1-2 model from Swing is aimed to “appeal to all kinds of pilot” thanks to an increased performance, sensitive handling and high safety level. It has 51 cells and an aspect ratio of 5,36. The design team at Swing focused on reducing drag by optimizing the glider's flow profile and reducing a 20% of lines. “The result is a glider which scores a noticeable improvement in performance compared to its predecessor without compromising on safety. Its handling has become a little more lively and direct” say at Swing. The Mistral 4 offers a “clean and accurate climbing” even in tight thermals, with a more direct control pressure and a very pleasant canopy feedback, according to the manufacturer. It is available in 8 new color combinations –and the option of your personal choice of colors– and 5 sizes.

+Info: www.swing.de

The replacement of the Vulcan for the intermediate-advanced category is based on Ozone's high performance model, the Mantra, offering “ excellent passive safety ”. With an aspect ratio of 5.6 and 59 cells (like the Mantra), at Ozone announce that this is a " kilometer eating XC machine ". The Addict has an i ncreased surface area in the wingtips for " lifty and efficient turn " that can also be very tight for the weakest and smallest thermals. In the Addict the sail tension has received special attention to obtain a smooth in-flight behavior in rough air and great stability at speed, according to Ozone. The sail of the Addict is Porcher Marine, with Porcher Marine 45 Evolution Skytex for the outer surface, and the glider weights only 5.6 kg for the M size. The Addict is also available in a thin lines version, the ‘Addict R', for those looking for a bit extra performance; and 5 sizes.

+Info: www.flyozone.com

This new high performance model is already flying in comps and XC around the world. With a flat aspect ratio of 6,41, the highest ever for a Nova wing; 71 cells with small, form-optimized intakes for more pressure in the cells; and a new airfoil that provides greater performance through a wide range of angles of attack, the manufacturer believe that the Tycoon is setting a new benchmark in the DHV2-3 class. Compared to its predecessor, the Radon, the Tycoon has a smaller surface, which makes it fast and agile; and longer lines and more wing curve “for a better, more efficient technique to gain wing tension”. The sail is hybrid: for the outer sail is used 45g in front part and 40g/sqm in the rear part, and light cloth for the ribs, which offers better inflation and less surge. It also has new, thinner main lines “still strong enough” (PPSL 160 instead of 200). Nova used a new sewing method in the leading edge that results in a cleaner shape and fewer wrinkles, they say. “Now, with the TYCOON, performance is back and it's back by a big margin” claim at Nova. The Tycoon is available in 3 sizes and 4 choices of colors.

+Info: http://www.nova-wings.com

A dedicated glider for "Freestyle" and aerobatics, the Hoops is aimed at pilots experienced in maneuvers who will know how to use its agility. The aspect ratio is 5,81; with 54 cells and an area of only 18,55 square meters. The sail is made of Gelvenor cloth (49 g/m2), with profiles of Porcher Marine 9092, and Cousin dyneema lines. Other construction features include diagonal V-tabs to reduce lines and weight, Mylar/Carbon reinforcement, and a clean layout. The result is a glider with high inner pressure, showing strong reactions in extreme maneuvers and offering direct and sensitive piloting. It has a short and precise brake “which allows little use of the brake during the flight”, say at Sol. The Hoops is a fast machine that can reach a top speed of 68 k/h, and a minimum speed of 30 k/h, according to the manufacturer. Like all Sol gliders, the Hoops is covered by a 3-years/300-hours warranty. It is available in one size to suit pilots of 70 to 100 kg. Hoops is a non certified glider.

+Info: http://www.solparagliders.com.br

The successor of the successful Aspen has a new airfoil section and canopy curves, and is made with new materials, including a new generation of Edelrid lines, the 7443 series; and new narrower webbing for the riser system. The upper sail is made of Porcher Marine Skytex S 9092 water repellent (45g/m2) with Porcher Marine Skytex S 9017 (40g/m2) for the lower surface, and Porcher Marine Skytex for the ribs. Gradient 's objective was to create “an even better glider” than the first Aspen , keeping its comfortable but dynamic flying characteristics “but increasing the already high performance and safety margins”. New in the Aspen 2 is the attention paid to the leading edge, and the position, area and shaping of the air entry ports for “high stability over a very wide speed range (angle of attack)”. The glider also features new low drag micro attachment points on the wing tips. The Aspen 2 is available in 5 sizes and 5 color schemes.

+Info: www.gradient.cx

Developed in parallel to Sky’s competition model Eris, the ARES takes some of its aerodynamic and technical characteristics but at Sky say it is accessible to a much wider group of pilots. It is a high performance glider offering high stability and an “excellent” behavior in turn. The Ares has an aspect ratio of 6, and a speed range from 25 to 55 k/h, with a trim speed of around 38 k/h. According to the manufacturer, the Ares offers “straight glide (no rearing up and pitching) in smooth air AND while crossing turbulences for improved overall performance”, and it is efficient in weak thermals and steady in rough air. It is glider aimed at XC, experienced pilots looking for “high performance, wide speed range and outstanding glide”. The Ares is available in 3 sizes.

+Info: www.sky-cz.com

Swept-back wingtips and thin 12mm risers are the distinctive characteristics of the new intermediate model from UP, designed for “going far, going fast”. According to UP, the goal was “to retain or even improve the easy, forgiving flight characteristics of the predecessor whilst using all the new knowledge gleaned from the UP Targa 2 and the UP Trango 2 development process”. The Summit 3 incorporates the Variable Tension System on the trailing edge used in UP’s comp gliders, and the leading edge has been refined even further to reduce wrinkles, increase spanwise tension and “allow safe flying at lower angles of incidence”. It has ultra thin Dyneema lines from Cousin for more longevity, lower drag and more performance. The manufacturer’s data quote trim speed at 37 k/h, top speed at 52 k/h with “amazing stability across the entire range”, and low stall speed for “improved climbing abilities”. It also has higher directional stability, longer brake travel and a more “inherently stable” canopy. At UP say that the Summit 3 offers the “sweetest handling” ever achieved in any of their gliders. The Summit 3 is available in 4 sizes, including a new SM size.

+Info: www.up-paragliders.com

This is a glider for new pilots or those looking for “easy life in the air”. The Muse 2 has 39 cells and an elliptically shaped canopy with an aspect ratio of 4.65. The classic construction with diagonal V-tapes and a system of load-bearing tapes gives canopy stability and helps to keep a clean profile. Line configuration remains the same as the Muse 1 with an additional E-line. The Muse 2 has lively handling but at Mac Para say that the canopy is well damped in all axes. It has light brake pressure to allow “pleasant turns” during long flights, but the pressure increases progressively to offer a good safety margin. According to the manufacturer, is “a well balanced glider with simple take-off characteristics and easy behaviour during extreme manoeuvres”. The Muse 2 is available in 5 sizes.

+Info: www.macpara.com

The new Sport is the evolution of the Sport 2, with improvements “in every way”. Constructed with hybrid sail, like the Mustang (DHV2), the Sport 3 uses 50gm/sq m silicone coated Gelvenor cloth for the leading edge (“the part that always wears out first”) and 35gm/sq m Porcher Marine for the rest of the canopy. The ribs are also of two different weights of cloth on the supported and unsupported ribs. At Airwave say that this gives the advantage of a sail that is both lightweight and extremely durable, and resistant to UV –which “nearly doubles the average safe working life of a glider”. The sail has been completely redesigned over the Sport 2 to be cleaner and therefore offering less drag to the airflow, to enhance the glide performance. The openings include curved panels on the bottom surface and are finished with soft tape giving smoother reinflation. According to the manufacturer, the Sport3 also offers “auto-centering” in thermals thanks to the balance between the pitching moment of the profile and the wing twist. Performance wise, at Airwave are sure that their new baby has “outstanding” sink rate and glide, a wide speed range and low stall speed, with an optimum balance between safety and performance. The Sport 3 is available in 5 sizes

+Info: www.airwave-gliders.com

A “first choice for leisure and xc-pilots” is the third model of the Dragon series. The Dragon 3 is a completely new glider, introducing a new material for the profile that helps reduce the diagonal extension and get a smoother, cleaner canopy, according to the manufacturer. The handling has also been improved to obtain a “very good dynamic for a DHV1-2 glider”, together with safe and good-natured extreme-flight behaviour that make the Dragon 3 a good choice for “freestyle” pilots. Another design feature is the brake system with variable rear-edge-tension to slightly contract the rear edge during braking for more efficient turning and improved performance, as fewer lines are used and so there’s less drag. The Dragon 3 is available in 3 sizes.

+Info: http://www.independence-world.de/

A glider for experienced and XC pilots, the Fenix 2 is based on a new profile that "allows high performance and resistance to collapses" according to the manufacturer. During its development the goal was to obtain high performance with "exceptional" stability even at top speed, together with easy and dynamic handling. The glider incorporates internal diagonals ribs and a reduced number of lines in two cascades for less drag. It has a partially closed leading edge, and aspect ratio of 5,7. Among its qualities, Pegas mention easy and intuitive handling that makes coring even the tightest thermals an easy task, a wide and usable speed range, and a stability similar to paragliders of Standard category. The Fenix 2 was constructed with fabric Skytex S9017 for the sail, reinforcements in Dacron W-382/175g and Mylar Scrim, and Dyneema lines 1.1mm and Superaramid 1.7mm. It’s available in 5 sizes, the smallest aimed at Acro; and there’s also a "race" version in two sizes.

+Info: www.pegas2000.cz

See models in our previous Archive / until January 2006: Wings of Change Druid, Skywalk Poison, gradient Delite,Sky Cima, Aerodyne Cherokee, Pro-Design Thema, Wings of Change Isis; Aerodyne Shaolin, Swing Arcus 4, Paramania Revolution, Gin Zulu, Firebird Twix, U-Turn U2, Airwave Flite, Dudek Air Light.

*See an index of all the published news in this (and other) section(s), and links to our Archive pages in READ!