Ozone Viper 2 24, Pilot'S Manual

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Under full power the torque effect will attempt to gently turn the 

wing, adjusting the trims or using weightshift is the best method to 

correct this. 

The handling characteristic of the Viper 2 is truly amazing. We 

have worked hard on tuning the wing so that it turns tightly but 

also efficiently, as the ability to climb in a turn is very important for 

powered and free flight, making the climb out fun and thermalling 

easy.

Normal Flight

Once at a safe altitude you can release the trims for a faster cruise 

speed. The Viper 2 will achieve very good straight line speed (i.e 

maintaining level flight) with trims fully released and full speed bar 

applied. 

For better penetration in headwinds and improved glide perfor

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mance in sinking air, crosswinds or headwinds, you should fly 

faster than trim speed by using the accelerator system. For maxi

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mum efficiency whilst flying downwind, release the speed bar and 

pull the trims to the slow position.

By pulling the trimmers to the slow position and applying the 

brakes approximately 30cm, the Viper 2 will achieve its minimum-

sink rate; this is the speed for best climb and is the speed to use 

for thermalling and ridge soaring.

Turning

To familiarize yourself with the Viper 2 your first turns should be 

gradual and progressive.

To make efficient and coordinated turns with the Viper 2 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.

Reverse Launch -Light to Strong Winds

Lay out your Viper 2 as you would for the forward launch. However, 

this time face the wing, and attach the risers in the correct manor 

(half a turn in each riser, and crossed in the direction you want to 

turn). Now you can pull up the Viper 2 by its A-risers. Once the 

wing is overhead, brake it gently, turn and launch. 

In stronger winds, be prepared to take a few steps towards the 

glider as it inflates. This will take some of the energy out of the 

glider and it will be less likely to over-fly you. Once stable and 

above your head apply progressive power and accelerate smoothly 

for a controlled take off. 

IMPORTANT: Never attempt to take off with a glider that is 

not fully inflated, directly overhead or if you are not fully in 

control of the pitch/roll of the wing.

Practice ground handling and launching as much as possible! It is 

great fun, and will give you a much better feel for your Viper 2s 

flight characteristics. It will also improve your overall enjoyment of 

flying by making your launches easier and safer.  

The Climb Out

Once in the air you should continue flying into wind gain altitude. 

By using slow trim and a small amount of brake you will achieve 

the best climb rate. Do not attempt to climb too steeply, too 

quickly. The high angle of attack will make the glider more prone 

to stall and in the event of an engine failure the pendulum effect 

may bring you to the ground very hard. Do not initiate turns until 

you have sufficient height and airspeed. Avoid low turns downwind 

with insufficient airspeed.

The Viper 2 is well damped in roll but under certain circumstances 

it is possible for the pilot to induce oscillations. This is caused by 

a combination of the engine/propeller torque and pilot weightshift 

and/or brake inputs. To stop oscillations it is best to reduce the 

power slightly and ensure that you remain static with weight

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shift and brake inputs. Once settled you can once again apply full 

power.