9Pilot’s manual for Denali
Caution:In general, when there is a very fast or a long-lasting rotation and when the brakes are released
too quickly, the canopy may shoot in front of the pilot followed by a massive asymmetrical collapse.
Warning:Whenever a paraglider is not in a normal flight and the airflow is disrupted there is always a
rapid increase in sink rate and therefore a substantial loss of altitude.
Remember:When practising SIV the wrong manoeuvre at the wrong time may change a fairly easy
situation into a dangerous problem. You are also exposing your glider to forces that may damage it.
Practise SIV manoeuvres only under the supervision of an instructor and with a reserve parachute.
6. MAINTAINING YOUR GLIDER
If you handle your glider with care and store it in a suitable place it can last a very long time. On the other
hand, neglecting maintenance, bad storage and the use of unsuitable cleaning products can reduce the
lifespan of your glider significantly or may even make it dangerous.
You must observe to these rules:
Choose a suitable area for your launches. Lines caught on roots or rocks lead to unnecessary strain on
the attachment tabs during inflation. Snagging lines may rip the canopy tissue or damage lines.
When landing, never let the canopy fall on its leading edge in front of the pilot. The effect of these
forceful collisions and the sudden increase in pressure can severely damage the air-resistant coating of
the canopy as well as weaken the ribs and seams.
Protect the canopy from unnecessary strain. Inconsiderate handling of your glider –pulling it over
grass, soil, sand or rocks –will significantly reduce its lifetime.
When preparing the paraglider for a launch or when ground handling, be sure not to step on any of
the lines or the canopy.
Don't tie any unnecessary knots in the lines. Packing methods where special knots are made in the
lines as used on parachutes and reserve parachutes are not suitable for packing the lines used on
paragliders.
Protect your canopy and lines from unnecessary exposure to sunlight. UV-rays can damage many parts
of a paraglider.
Try not to pack your glider when wet. If it’s unavoidable then dry it as soon as possible but away from
direct sunlight. Be careful to avoid storing your canopy wet –this is the most common reason for
cloth degradation, and is easily preventable.
Don't let your glider come into contact with seawater. If it does, rinse the lines, canopy and risers with
fresh water and dry before storing.
After flight or when storing always use the inner protection sack.
When storing or during transport make sure your glider isn't exposed to temperatures higher than 50
degrees Celsius.
Never let the paraglider come into contact with chemicals. Clean the glider with clean lukewarm water
only.
When packing the glider we recommend concertina folding the reinforced leading edge to avoid
damaging the plastic reinforcements.
For long-term storage don't pack the glider too tightly. Store it in a cold, dry and well-ventilated room.
After tree or water-landing always examine the glider carefully. If you suspect that the flight features
of your paraglider have changed, contact an authorised Gradient supplier as soon as possible.
