GIN Atlas X-Alps - Manual (Page 15)

15
TIP: During your first few flights,
familiarize yourself with your glider’s
speed range and corresponding brake
positions and pressures.
CAUTION: Don’t use full bar near the
ground or in turbulence. Although the
wing is stable at this speed, higher
aerodynamical forces mean that any
collapses that do occur could be more
significant and require more height for
recovery.
CAUTION: Never apply brakes when using
the speed bar.
CAUTION: Always check for clear airspace
before initiating a turn.
In-flight characteristics
Normal flight
“Trim speed” (brakes fully released) is the best glide speed in still air.
Minimum sink speed on the Atlas X-Alps is achieved by light braking. In a normal flying position
(knees parallel to the ground and your body slightly reclined), your hands should be holding the
brakes at a level between your eyes and your shoulders. Use this speed for thermalling and ridge
soaring.
Stall speed is approached by bringing your hands towards your hips. Notice the decreased wind
noise and a significant increase in brake pressure. Be sure not to allow your glider to enter a stall.
Accelerated flight
The speed system causes the glider to accelerate by lowering the angle of attack. Apply the
speed system by pushing the speed bar progressively with your feet. Use your speed bar when
gliding in sinking air, headwinds and crosswinds. The glide angle or stability of the Atlas X-Alps
does not degrade significantly at speeds of up to half bar.
Turning
Make your first turns gradual and progressive. Also remember that your harness and its set-up
has an influence of the turning behaviour of the wing.
Enter a turn with good airspeed, weightshift and then apply the brake. Once established in the
turn, regulate your speed and turn radius with weightshift and the outer brake.