Basic Flight Techniques; Take-Off Check List; Launching - Ozone Mantra Manuel

between sizes the following information may help you make a
decision as to which size to buy:
If you want better speed, precise handling, if you generally fly in
mountains and/or in strong conditions, you should chose to fly in the
top part of the weight range.
If you want a better sink rate, if you generally fly in flat lands and/or
in weak conditions, you should chose to fly in the bottom part of the
range. Remember, you can always add ballast for when conditions
are stronger.

BASIC FLIGHT TECHNIQUES

To familiarise yourself with the glider it is a good idea to perform
practice inflations and ground handling. For pilots already
accustomed with high performance wings you should have no
difficulties flying the Mantra for the first time in suitable conditions
that you would normally fly in. For those pilots moving up a level (eg
from a DHV 2) then we recommend that first flights should be in
smooth conditions on a familiar site and with your normal harness to
get accustomed with your new wing.
Preparation
Lay out the MANTRA on its top surface in a pronounced arc, with the
centre of the wing higher than the tips. Lay out the lines one side at
a time. Hold up the risers and starting with the brake lines, pull all
lines clear. Repeat with the D, C, B and A lines, laying the checked
lines on top of the previous set, and making sure no lines are
tangled, knotted or snagged. Mirror the process on the other side.

Take-off check list:

1. Check reserve parachute - pin in and handle secure
2. Helmet on and fastened
3. All harness buckles closed - check leg-loops again
4. Karabiners and maillons tight
5. Holding the A's and your brake handles
6. Leading edge open
7. Aligned directly into wind
8. Airspace and visibility clear

Launching

Your MANTRA will launch with either the forward or reverse
techniques.
Whilst inflating your wing, you should hold both of the A risers (main
A and babyA) on each side. Once clipped in, and you have gone
through the take-off check list (above), stand central to the wing to
ensure an even and progressive inflation.
Forward Launch - Nil to Light winds
When the wind is right, move forward, your lines should become tight
within one or two steps. The MANTRA will immediately start to
inflate. You should maintain a constant pressure on the risers until
the wing is overhead.
Don't pull down or push the risers forward excessively, or the leading
edge will deform and make taking-off difficult.
Move smoothly throughout the entire launch, there is no need to rush
or snatch at it. You should have plenty of time to look up and check
your canopy before committing yourself.
Once you are happy that the MANTRA is inflated correctly, accelerate
smoothly off the launch.
Reverse Launch -Light to Strong Winds
Lay out your MANTRA as you would for the forward launch. However,
this time turn to face the wing, passing one entire set of risers over
your head as you turn. Now you can pull the MANTRA by it's A-risers.
Once the wing is overhead, brake it gently, turn and launch.
In stronger winds, be prepared to take a few steps towards the glider
as it inflates. This will take some of the energy out of the glider and
it will be less likely to over fly you. This reverse-launch technique can
be used in surprisingly light winds too.
IMPORTANT: Never take off with a glider that is not fully
inflated or if you are not in control of the pitch/roll of your
wing.
Practice ground handling a lot! It's great fun, and will give you a
much better feel for your MANTRA's flight characteristics. It will also
improve your overall enjoyment of flying by making your launches
easier.
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