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The gear is simple but the
choices are daunting. We've done reviews to give you some minimal guidance
but, for your first foray into the sport, it's far, far better to go with
what your chosen instructor is familiar with. Having said that, it's good
to be informed that is our mission.
This chapter is a quick
overview for the new student just getting started. More details appear
in Section V.
As new information comes out
and gear changes, some of those improvements will be added here. For
example, one area of constant evolution is communication. A section in
equipment reviews has been added to explore the many options and, where
possible, to review them in actual flight tests.
Instrumentation is another
area that has enjoyed innovation. Although we pride ourselves on
simplicity, sometimes a bit of information can prevent costly mistakes
such as how a cylinder head temperature guage can warn of impending
engine melt down.
Entire chapters of the
Powered Paragliding Bible are devoted to what trade-offs come in wings,
motors and various accessories but sometimes we can present more details
and more timely details here on FootFlyer. The discussion of radios is a
good example.
Also,
equipment reviews provide
a look at many current products along with an assessment on performance,
comfort, construction and other criteria.
Here are quick links to
descriptions various equipment.
Wings (26),
Motors (27),
Accessories (28)
How Much
Will it Cost?
It's
definitely the cheapest form of powered aviation, at least that you get
to go up with. Like almost anything we do, it's cheaper per hour if you
do it a lot. There's no hangar, insurance is cheap (if you get it at
all) and it's among the most fuel thrifty ways to fly. Only powered hang
gliders (not trikes) use less fuel per hour.
Here is a
complete breakdown of all the
costs involved with flying powered paragliders.
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