Niviuk ICEPEAK 8, User Manual

12

to be applied. In fact big ears on wings with a profile of 2 lines can often 
prove difficult.

For all these reasons, we advise the use of the 4C3descent technique 
on the ICepeaK 8. This technique ensures a rapid descent is achieved 
whilst forward wing speed is maintained and so the risk of a deep stall is 
eliminated.

HoW?
locate the 4C3on your risers and as you would when applying big ears 
simply pull down firmly and smoothly until you see both wingtips drop 
back slightly. The forward speed of the glider speed will then reduce 
slightly, quickly stabilize and then increase. You will then experience 
a fall rate of around 5-6m/s. Controlled turning of the wing can easily 
be maintained by weight shifting the harness, exactly the same as you 
would with big ears. We recommend the application of the speed bar 
whilst using this technique. To exit the maneuver release the lines as you 
would with big ears, control the pitch and the wing will quickly adopt 
normal flight.

This new technique allows a comfortable and controllable rapid descent 
without the risk of experiencing a “cravat” or “deep stall”. 

We advise you to first try this technique in smooth conditions with 
sufficient altitude above appropriate terrain.

5.3 B-lINe sTall

This manoeuvre is not possible with this wing.

5.4 spIral dIVe

This is a more effective way for rapidly losing height. You have to know 
that, the wing can gain a lot of vertical speed and rotation speed (G 
force). This can cause a loss of orientation and consciousness (blac-

kouts). These are the reasons why it is best to carry out this manoeuvre 
gradually so your capacity to resist the G forces increases and you will 
learn to fully appreciate and understand the manoeuvre. always practice 
this manoeuvre when flying at high altitude.
To start the manoeuvre, first lean your bodyweight and pull the brake 
line to the side to which you are leaning. You can regulate the intensity of 
the turn by applying a little outside brake.

a paraglider flying at its maximum turn speed can reach –20 m/s, equi-
valent 70 km/h vertical speed and stabilize in a spiral dive from 15 m/s 
onwards.

These are the reasons why you should be familiar with the manoeuvre 
and know how to carry out the exit methods.

To exit this manoeuvre you must progressively release the inside brake 
and also momentarily apply outside brake. Whilst doing this you must 
also lean your bodyweight towards the outside. This exit manoeuvre has 
to be carried out gradually and with smooth movements so you can feel 
the pressure and speed changes at the same time.

The after effect of the exit manoeuvre is that the glider will rock briefly 
with lateral surge, depending on how the manoeuvre has been carried 
out.

practice these movements at sufficient altitude and with moderation.

5.5  sloW desCeNT TeCHNIQUe

Using this technique (do not hurry to descend) we will fly normally, without 
forcing neither the material nor the pilot. It means looking for descending 
air areas and turn as it was a thermal – in order to descend. We have to 
avoid danger areas when looking for descent zones. safety is the most 
important thing.