GIN Mirage - Manual (Page 9)

9
4. Flying the Mirage
We recommend that you first practice inflating your glider on a small training hill, or flat
ground before connecting to your motor. Make your first flights with your new paramotor glider
in gentle conditions and from a familiar take off area.
The following is best carried out by an instructor or at the very least an experienced motor pilot.
Before flying your Mirage with a motor unit, we recommend that you do a static hang test. This
is done by hanging your motor unit from an appropriate structure from the wing attachment
points by using a strong rope or strap, then by sitting in the harness, get an assistant to
measure up the risers from the hang points up. The aim is to make sure that you, the pilot, are
able to reach the brakes whilst in flight. Allowances should also be made for the wind blowing
the toggles out of reach. The Mirage’s risers are shorter than most conventional paragliders,
which reduces the potential problem.
Preparation for launch
Following a consistent method of preparation and pre-flight checks is vital for safe flying. We
recommend the following:
On arrival at the flying site, assess the suitability of the conditions: wind speed and
direction, airspace, turbulence.
Inspect your glider, harness, reserve handle and pin, helmet and any other equipment.
Choose a sufficiently large take-off area with even ground and no obstacles.
Lay the glider out according to the plan form, and get the lines and risers sorted out.
Secure yourself in your harness and don’t forget the leg loops! Put your helmet on.
Connect the risers to your motor karabiners, ensuring there are no twists or loops around
the lines.
Connect the speed system to the risers with the Brummel hooks.
Do a final line check by pulling gently on the risers or lines to ensure there are no new
knots, tangles or interfering branches or rocks. Take extra care in nil or light winds.
Pre-flight check list
Engine delivering full power?
Reserve parachute: pin in and handle secure.
Helmet and harness buckles closed.
Trim set?
Nothing likely to foul the prop?
Speed bar system running freely and out of harm’s way?
Lines free. (Steering toggles and brake lines free and not twisted?)
Canopy open and into wind.
Airspace clear.
Flying with and without a motor
Although the design philosophy of the Mirage is that of a high-speed paramotor wing, which
performs well as a free flying glider and may be flown as such with no adjustment. Slower trim