19
Turning
To familiarize yourself with the Speedster 3 your first turns should be gradual and progressive.
To make efficient and coordinated turns with the Speedster 3 first look in the direction you
want to go and check that the airspace is clear. 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.
Active Flying
In turbulent air the Shark nose Ozone reflex profile (OZRP) is very stable. It will resist
reasonable levels of turbulence without pilot input. The faster the wing is flown the more
inherent stability there is as the reflex has a greater effect. Using the speed system has
exactly the same effect as releasing the trimmers so it is safe and possible to fly with the
trimmers in the slow position whilst using the full range of the speed system.
The key elements of effective active flying are pitch control and pressure control: In very
turbulent air, if the glider pitches hard in front of you, use the brakes to slow it down. Equally,
if the glider drops behind you, release the brakes to allow it to speed up. Avoid flying with
continuous amounts of brake in rough air as you could inadvertently stall the wing. Always
consider your airspeed.
In mild turbulence it may be best to not attempt to fly the wing actively and let the profile
absorb the turbulence itself, indeed small applications of the brakes can reduce the inherent
stability of the profile. However in strong turbulence Ozone recommends to always return the
trimmers to the slow position (fully pulled) and fly the glider actively. This way, you will be in
the best position to react correctly should an incident occur. No pilot and no glider are immune
to collapses however in strong turbulence, correct active flying will virtually eliminate any
tendency to collapse. When the conditions are very turbulent, be more active and anticipate
the movements of your wing. Always be aware of your altitude and do not over-react.
IMPORTANT
Never initiate a turn at
minimum speed (i.e.
with full brakes on) as
you could risk entering
a spin.
IMPORTANT
Always keep hold of
your brakes. Do not fly
in turbulent conditions
IMPORTANT
Never apply the
brakes whilst flying
faster than the red
line position - it makes
the wing more prone
to collapse. During
accelerated flight use
the TST for directional
control.
