I am going to get P2 instruction in a couple of months. So, I'm looking for used gear in good condition: paraglider, harness, reserve. I am 5'9", 165lb -- probably size Medium.
Alek (301-651-3301)
Paraglider, harness, reserve wanted
Moderator: CHGPA BOD
Check out the deal Parker Beeson (Montana) has for sale on PGForum -
http://www.pgforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=13914
http://www.pgforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=13914
'Spark
Thanks Spark! It does look like a sweet deal.Spark wrote:Check out the deal Parker Beeson (Montana) has for sale on PGForum -
http://www.pgforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=13914
The glider is a Medium, but the manual for that glider recommends a take-off-weight of 90-110kg (198-242lb). So, I'll probably be at the lower end of the weight range. Do you think that's a deal breaker? Also, I am not familiar with how the pg harnesses fit. The one he's selling is a large, would that work for me?
I appreciate your opinions!
Alek
301-651-3301
In retrospect, I feel that it was irresponsible for me to have posted that link in response to your inquiry.
Although I was a basic instructor for a couple of years, I've chosen to let my certifications (including the hang T3) lapse next month. I'm a rec pilot and pretty much a rookie at paragliding compared to the majority of more experienced pilots.
From experience, I believe that there are many advantages to making the equipment decision after receiving instruction. A good instructor *should* be able to provide an objective viewpoint and advice.
If you buy equipment that is not right for you, it can impact your safety, progress, enjoyment of the sport, and your wallet when you eventually decide to replace the equipment.
Regarding the wing loading/harness questions ...
Being light in a PG in strong wind or active air is not much fun (speaking from experience). However, being light on your wing in smooth and or boaty air can be fun and allow you to extend your time aloft.
I am light in my L wing ... and I lost 20 lbs in the past year. I am planning on buying a smaller wing, because I am flying in some pretty active air on a regular basis. In the interim, I am flying with divers weights and this helps, but I have to carry around the weight ... but at least it is not in body fat
Different pg designs respond differently in active air, even those with the same DHV. I've not flown any of the more recent designs ... http://www.pgforum.com is a good place to read about this stuff, or to ask questions.
Being small in a harness, or having a harness incorrectly adjusted can decrease the effectiveness pilot weight shift, which is a very key factor in making efficient turns, and also in managing the canopy, which is both a performance and safety consideration. If you want to ensure that you have a good fit, it is best to try the harness and hang in a simulator to get an idea how it will perform in weight shift.
I hope these comments make sense.
I'm looking forward to flying pg with you some day.
Although I was a basic instructor for a couple of years, I've chosen to let my certifications (including the hang T3) lapse next month. I'm a rec pilot and pretty much a rookie at paragliding compared to the majority of more experienced pilots.
From experience, I believe that there are many advantages to making the equipment decision after receiving instruction. A good instructor *should* be able to provide an objective viewpoint and advice.
If you buy equipment that is not right for you, it can impact your safety, progress, enjoyment of the sport, and your wallet when you eventually decide to replace the equipment.
Regarding the wing loading/harness questions ...
Being light in a PG in strong wind or active air is not much fun (speaking from experience). However, being light on your wing in smooth and or boaty air can be fun and allow you to extend your time aloft.
I am light in my L wing ... and I lost 20 lbs in the past year. I am planning on buying a smaller wing, because I am flying in some pretty active air on a regular basis. In the interim, I am flying with divers weights and this helps, but I have to carry around the weight ... but at least it is not in body fat
Different pg designs respond differently in active air, even those with the same DHV. I've not flown any of the more recent designs ... http://www.pgforum.com is a good place to read about this stuff, or to ask questions.
Being small in a harness, or having a harness incorrectly adjusted can decrease the effectiveness pilot weight shift, which is a very key factor in making efficient turns, and also in managing the canopy, which is both a performance and safety consideration. If you want to ensure that you have a good fit, it is best to try the harness and hang in a simulator to get an idea how it will perform in weight shift.
I hope these comments make sense.
I'm looking forward to flying pg with you some day.
'Spark