airwave Gecko Manuel D'utilisation page 24

24
Gecko& Alpine
Owners Manual
rev. 1.0 – 20.08.2008
Airwave is a world leader in the design and production of hang gliders & paragliders. For many years
Airwave have developed products with world beating performance for pilots who want the best. We apply
our competitive knowledge to design top quality products that combine the highest performance with the
safety and good handling our customers value and respect. Airwave pilots can depend on our quality and
reliability.
Airwave´s world class status is based on the skills and expertise we have developed in combining
aerodynamic design, cloth and materials technology. All Airwave products are developed and made with
the same skill and attention to good design that are synonymous with the ultimate performance and
precision required by airsports.
The Gecko is part of the wide range of Airwave flying equipment.
Congratulation on your purchase of the Airwave Gecko.
The Gecko is a paraglider, designed to a high standard of safety and stability, but it will only retain these
characteristics if it is properly looked after. Please read this manual carefully from the first to the last
chapter to ensure you get the best out of your Gecko.
This manual has been prepared to give you information and advice about your paraglider. If you ever
need any replacement parts or further information, please do not hesitate to contact your nearest Airwave
dealer or contact Airwave directly.
DESIGN NOTES Alpine
The standard Alpine is based on our new beginner wing, the Gecko: the two designs share the
same sail, line confi guration and certifi cation. To create the Alpine we took the Gecko and
analyzed every detail to reduce its weight. The sail was changed from 39 g/m! with a 45 g/m!
leading edge, to 27 g/m! with a 35 g/m! leading edge, the Mylar edging tape has been changed
to a lighter nylon tape, the line attachments have lighter weight reinforcing, the risers change to
super lightweight Dyneema webbing and the removable speed system has been redesigned to be
effective, yet light-weight. On the Alpine even the seams are sewn differently to reduce weight. The
Alpine weighs 3.2 Kg in the S size, 3.5 Kg in the M and 3.9 Kg in the L. If the Alpine isn't lightweight
enough for you then you need the Alpine Extreme. Designed as
an ultra-lightweight glider the Extreme is only 17.5 m! (fl at) and is both fast and manoeuvrable. It
can be used as either a lightweight for small pilots, or as a mini glider for when the wind's too
strong to fl y your normal wing. The Alpine Extreme is a one off design without certifi cation. If it
were to be certifi ed we believe it would be a low end 1-2 glider . The Alpine Extreme weighs in at a
super lightweight 2.7 Kg.
Handbuch / Manuel d'utilisation / Owners Manuel - Airwave Gecko Alpine – rev 1.0 – 20.08.08 Page 24 / 24