22
USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xrocket
EN REV.V01 - 2020
7
RAPID DECENT
Should a fast descent be necessary due to special weather conditions such as thunderstorms,
a weather front, extreme winds or other dangers and hazardous situations occur, the following
options are available:
PAY ATTENTION_
The manoeuvres described for quick/ fast descent put an extra
amount of strain and pressure on your paraglider and should therefore only be used for
training or used in emergency situations.
7.1.1
„Big Ears“
Both designated outer A2-risers (grab at or above the quick links) are being pulled down
simultaneously for 15 - 20 cm to fold in the wing tips. The brake toggles are to be held in hand
together with the pulled down a-lines. for additional stability and for an increased sink rate
the speed system should be actuated. The glider remains fully steerable by weight shifting
and descents at an elevated sink rate (4-7 m/sec, depending on how many cells are folded
in) straight forward. Once the a-risers are released, the folded wingtips re-inflate
automatically, if not you may pump the brakes gently. due to the high wing load “big earing”
is a very stable flight condition even in turbulent conditions. Please be aware that you reduce
the trim speed during “big ears”, but this can be compensated by applying the speed bar.
“Big ears” in combination with weight shifting in order to get the spiral dive, will achieve the
highest sink rate. This decent method is often taught in SIV training. Be mindful that this
exposes the glider to extreme loads, should one need to use this manoeuvre we recommend
an equipment inspection afterwards.
7.1.2
B-Stall
another very efficient method is the B-stall. The B-stall is generally known as the easiest de-
cent
method.
But
caution,
if
done
wrong,
it
is
anything
but
harmless!
The B-stall allows a sink rate of 6 to over 9 m/sec. Check the airspace under and above you
prior to initiating a B-stall. also pay attention to sufficient height. To initiate you hold the two
B- risers above the quick links. With the brakes in hand at all times, pull down the B-risers
progressively and symmetrically down to the shoulder to about chest level. hold this position.
Your sail will stop, the wing will become partially empty and stabilize itself overhead. during
this the wing will fall back a little, which must not tempt you to release the B-lines again. The
glider would then shoot forward and oscillate vigorously. Only when the glider has stabilized
overhead it is ok to exit the B-line stall. Therefore, bring the B-risers swiftly and symmetrically
back into their original position. We recommend not to simply let the risers snap shut as this
puts an enormous load on fabric, sewing and lines. In the paragraph titled “advanced
handling” you can read what to do if unexpectedly caught in a stall.
