Thanks guys. It is such a raw, pure form of flight - like the stuff you dream of as a kid when you dream about flying. Flying through cloud canyons, wind in your face, etc. Paragliding is more popular because of the logistics, etc, but it just isn't the same as flying a wing. I'm stoked to share it.
Aerotowing sketched me out at first because I learned by foot launching. If done correctly it's totally safe. There is a weak link built into each end of the line that breaks if you get too far off center behind the plane. I fly with double releases so I can release with each hand. Once you get up 100 feet off the ground it feels just like water skiing in the air!
Both songs were from a group called Phontaine. Their stuff really fits well with a lot of hang gliding footage.
You learn through an instructor just like fixed wing flying and get ratings from USHPA. Most instructors provide the equipment so you don't have to worry about buying anything at first. They usually provide packages that get you through your ratings in as much time as you need. The local guy in CO does so for about $2000 for everything.
A comp set up isn't cheap, but a basic glider that you could enjoy every day is pretty cheap. You can get a good intermediate glider new for $3500 and good used one for less than half of that. I paid $600 for my first glider and harness used, plus another $400 for a reserve chute (got that new). I bought a glider last year for $400 that I enjoy every bit as much as my comp glider. It can be done safely on the cheap for sure.
Once you've got your equipment and ratings all you pay is gas money to drive to launch or tow fees if you live in the flats!
I would be happy to help anyone get into the sport. The best place to start is to buy the Hang Gliding Training Manual by Dennis Pagen and start reading.
So true. I think the Super Nintendo Pilot Wings had a hang glider.
Originally posted by Mlarsen
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Originally posted by Downz
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Originally posted by A Sucked Orange
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You learn through an instructor just like fixed wing flying and get ratings from USHPA. Most instructors provide the equipment so you don't have to worry about buying anything at first. They usually provide packages that get you through your ratings in as much time as you need. The local guy in CO does so for about $2000 for everything.
A comp set up isn't cheap, but a basic glider that you could enjoy every day is pretty cheap. You can get a good intermediate glider new for $3500 and good used one for less than half of that. I paid $600 for my first glider and harness used, plus another $400 for a reserve chute (got that new). I bought a glider last year for $400 that I enjoy every bit as much as my comp glider. It can be done safely on the cheap for sure.
Once you've got your equipment and ratings all you pay is gas money to drive to launch or tow fees if you live in the flats!
I would be happy to help anyone get into the sport. The best place to start is to buy the Hang Gliding Training Manual by Dennis Pagen and start reading.
Originally posted by CreamE30
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