GRAVITY X duo User manual
1
USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
X duo_ EN B tandem glider
MANUAL
EN REV.V01 – 2020
Copyright by:
GRAVITY airsports & more GmbH
Hütte 45
6345 Kössen / Austria
tel. +43 (0)720 519 402
mail. hello@gravityparagliders.eu
web. www.gravityparagliders.eu
photos copyright and photo & visual credits
GRAVITY airsports & more GmbH
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
1
THE PRODUCT_.......................................................................................................................... 7
1.1
GRAVITY Xduo_ high performance ................................................................................. 7
1.2
Pilot Profile ..............................................................................................................................9
1.3
Nature and environmentally friendly behaviour ........................................................ 10
1.4
Use............................................................................................................................................ 10
1.5
Signboard............................................................................................................................... 10
2
POSSIBLE USE_..........................................................................................................................11
2.1
Motorised operations ...........................................................................................................11
2.2
E-climbing assistance/ E-ascent aid................................................................................11
2.3
Towing winches......................................................................................................................11
3
THE DEFAULT SETTINGS_ ....................................................................................................12
4
SECURITY PRECAUTIONS_ ...................................................................................................13
5
DEVICE DESCRIPTION_ ......................................................................................................... 14
5.1
Short description ................................................................................................................. 14
5.2
Technical Data Xduo_ .........................................................................................................15
5.3
Innovations on our Product_ ............................................................................................16
5.4
Colours and Design_............................................................................................................17
5.5
Risers ........................................................................................................................................18
6
GENERAL INFORMATION FOR TANDEM FLIGHTS_....................................................22
6.1
Dealing with the passenger..........................................................................................22
6.2
Equipment .........................................................................................................................22
6.3
Airfield ................................................................................................................................22
6.4
Briefing of the passenger..............................................................................................23
6.5
Flight Check ......................................................................................................................24
6.6
Hang Point Check............................................................................................................24
6.7
Pilot/ Passenger Configuration...................................................................................25
6.8
Behind Each Other ..........................................................................................................25
6.9
Juxtaposition ....................................................................................................................25
6.10
Inflating the Paraglider..................................................................................................25
7
TRANSPORTATION and STORAGE_ .................................................................................27
8
THE FLIGHT_ .............................................................................................................................27
8.1
Start/ Take-Off.................................................................................................................27
8.2
Turning................................................................................................................................27
8.3
thermal / turbulence ......................................................................................................28
8.4
Landing...............................................................................................................................28
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GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
8.5
Extreme Flight Maneuvers............................................................................................28
8.6
Wingover............................................................................................................................29
8.7
Frontal Collapse...............................................................................................................29
8.8
Deep stall ...........................................................................................................................29
8.9
Full Stall............................................................................................................................. 30
8.10
Collapse ............................................................................................................................. 30
9
Rapid descent .......................................................................................................................... 30
9.1
„Big Ears“ .......................................................................................................................... 30
9.2
B-Stall...................................................................................................................................31
9.3
Emergency piloting/ control.............................................................................................31
10
REPAIRS_ ................................................................................................................................31
11
MAINTENANCE and CLEANING_.........................................................................................31
11.1
Packing....................................................................................................................................32
11.2
Recycle....................................................................................................................................33
12
FLYING ACCESSORIES_ ........................................................................................................33
12.1
Xfusion _ guard, performance and quality - in a petite pack............................33
13
PRESUMTION OF RISK_ ................................................................................................... 34
14
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER_ ...................................................................................................35
15
SAFETY ADVICE and LIABILITY_...................................................................................35
16
LIABILITY EXEMPTION and WAIVER_ .........................................................................36
17
MAINTENANCE MANUAL_ ...................................................................................................37
17.1
Subject to inspection and inspection intervals ..........................................................37
17.2
Who is authorized to check? ...........................................................................................37
17.3
Rescue inspection equipment..........................................................................................37
17.4
Holes and cracks ..................................................................................................................37
17.5
Abrasion and expansions ..................................................................................................38
17.6
Tear resistance control ......................................................................................................38
17.7
Canopy porosity measurements .....................................................................................38
17.8
Connecting parts .................................................................................................................39
17.9
Lines.........................................................................................................................................39
17.10
Tensile strength values and tear resistance............................................................39
17.11
Checking line lengths and fixings.............................................................................. 40
17.12
Line length measurements: ......................................................................................... 40
17.13
Stitch/ Sewing control of trimming and settings................................................. 40
17.14
Miscellaneous.................................................................................................................... 41
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EN REV.V01 - 2020
18
IMPORTANT -> carried out inspections ....................................................................... 41
SERVUS
There are those very special and rare scenes and encounters in time, when we indulge in the
present, feeling the now and simply pure joy. The GRAVITY team has devoted its efforts, work
and vision entirely to and around the pleasures and enjoyment to the art of flying. Not only
do we all live the spirit and mind-set of safety and freedom every day, we also want to share
it with as many people and like-minded airheads as possible! GRAVITY develops innovative
products for paragliding and offers a full-service range with the great desire to make our
products accessible to as many enthusiasts and sportsmen out there.
WE PROCLAIM
-> Secured and lasting enjoyment!
GRAVITY strives for the highest level of passive safety, with inspiring, performing and
convincing products that make you truly happy. Our products deliver reliably, supporting
and aiding the pilot even in more challenging conditions.
It’s simple that the fun factor increases significantly by reducing risk. Designing and
manufacturing products, applying high, latest technological standards, originality with long-
lasting quality.
AMBITIOUS DESTINATION
-> Exceeding what is already great!
“Innovation is a trusted, strong driver and successful progress the best vessel!” With this we
are aiming to improve, grow and develop personally and our devices every day. Evolving
and advancing on certain thoughts and ideas about the current state of a product, how to
improve safety and protection, including sustainability with fresh, out of the box angles and
approaches. We are proud of our work, savour uncompromising quality and love our sport.
The products are crafted and tested with utmost care, in order to create and maintain long
lasting quality.
THE HEART OF TRADE
-> man-kind
Managing the team responsibly and with care, treating our surroundings and nature with
respect comes just as natural to us as how we communicate with each individual customer
and pilot. The GRAVITY team and family keeps an authentic and plain management style.
Evident, direct structures enable active, empowered interactions and makes us dynamic and
flexible. We wish you many countless, lasting, impressive explorations and moments with your
GRAVITY product.
Stefan Berger
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
owner & sales
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GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
PAY ATTENTION_
This operating manual is an important part of the aircraft. Please study and revise it well and
in detail, due to the fact that there is a legal OBLIGATION to deal with the air sports device
and its special features prior commissioning it. The manual is intended to make the use
of the
GRAVITY Xduo
as safe and easy as possible.
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
1
THE PRODUCT_
1.1
GRAVITY Xduo_ high performance
A new era of tandem flight has begun. We managed to take the agile solo handling to the two
-seater class with our Xduo for the very first time! High turn propensity while using low control
pressure are making this glider a very efficient and fun working tool for every tandem pilot.
The double seater reacts precisely and without any delay already with little steering impulses.
With the handling being almost effortless, the pilot may even happen to forget that he is
currently flying a tandem. The shark nose is delivering high performance as well as stability
during all kinds of conditions and situations.
The Xduo is successful combination of high performance with highest safety standards. A
long-lasting glider, using enduring, high-quality materials while emphasising air pleasure. The
advanced two-seater is available in two configurations as GT or Pro version. Thereby the GT
is aimed at ambitioned tandem pilots and the PRO version is aimed at professionals.
Illustration 01_ GRAVITY Xduo
During the planning and development phase, much emphasis was put into creating
outstanding take-off features. Even at zero-wind the Xduo fills itself, fast and effortless and
rises over the pilot in a controlled manner. The low take off speed and a surprisingly short
start run are offering a stress free take-off even with demanding passengers. But also during
the landing the outstanding slow-flight features convince combined with the high
performance potential of the wing for very good flair characteristics, making even the landing
a simple experience for the passenger and the pilot. Low-weight of the canopy with high
durability – that is what the smart material mix in combination with high quality processing of
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
the new Xduo promises. The top materials Dokdo 30 and Dokdo 20 are providing a low weight
at high abrasion resistance.
For the
PRO version we used the specifically developed PX40
material, which is often and
successfully applied in the acro scene. The extreme resistance to abrasion and tearing was a
special topic and big matter when it comes to return on investment of professional tandem
companies. The Xduo is covering a high weight range for a start weight from 140 kg up to
230 kg for one and two seated flying. Both versions have the LTF/EN B certification.
Illustration 02_ GRAVITY Xduo
Chief designer Ernst Strobl equips the Xduo with various constructive innovations. The PPN
and the shark nose are providing a higher profile fidelity alongside the cell opening. Elaborate
calculations of the ballooning in combination with the optimized pre-tensioning of the wing
are ensuring the perfect flow around the profile. The High Pressure Crossport Design (HPCD)
provides an ideal cross aeration of the crossport and ensures a balanced internal pressure in
the whole wing. In the rear part of the wing Miniribs and the Break Gathering System (BGS)
are providing an efficient force transmission of the brakes. The riser is equipped with an
innovative trimmer system. The effective system prevents the warping of the profile, through
not only accelerating the D and C level, but also the B level is being changed in relation to the
angle of attack. Through that the form of the profile is being maintained, which leads to better
gliding. On the D-riser a special clamping device is mounted, which allows the pilot to fixate
the brake lines in any position. Therefore, even in turbulent conditions, you can take care of
the passenger. A separated A-riser offers an easy way for doing Big Ears.
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
1.2
Pilot Profile
We designed and built the Xduo from scratch, placing much value into first class handling,
which is clearly noticeable through the low control pressure. The double seater reacts
precisely and promptly, already to the smallest control pulses and is therefore easily steered
into curves and manoeuvred in general. It may occur that you forget you are flying a tandem
at all. In terms of performance, the Xduo makes up for its surface area having a double effect.
Working very efficiently in thermal lift and reliably transforms it into height and when in
turbulent air, the glider stands solidly with precise feedback and a direct flight feeling.
Illustration 03_ GRAVITY Xduo
The shark nose is providing high stability and an extended inflow area. We doubled passive
safety as it is a priority when flying with passengers. The canopy reactions are moderate and
very damped accordingly, creating the sense of calm and composure in every situation.
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xduo
EN REV.V01 - 2020
1.3
Nature and environmentally friendly behaviour
We ask you to perform our sport in a manner, that impacts nature and environment with
minimum intensity or as little as possible. Please do not walk off-track paths, don`t leave any
waste, don’t make noise uselessly and respect the sensitive biological habitat in the mountains
or any nature surroundings. Especially at take-off areas maximum care for nature is necessary.
1.4
Use
The Xduo was built for single-seat use only. The Xduo is a light air sports device, with an
unladen weight of less than 120 kg in the paraglider division. The training-ready Xduo glider
is an ideal wing and companion for beginners as well as advanced pilots. a wide range of
pilots. The Xduo is sample inspected and certified according to LTF/EN B norm. The approval
of the product was carried out and conducted according to current legal requirements and
specifications:
• Inspection guidelines: LTF 91/09 & EN 926-1:2006, 926-2:2013
Accredited testing centre: EAPR GmbH, Marktstr. 11, 87730 Bad Grönenbach, Germany
1.5
Signboard
The essential and relevant product data is positioned on each product by default and in
accordance to the admission office. In the case of the entire GRAVITY paraglider range these
are visibly placed are the centre of the canopy.
Illustration 04_ Signboard
WARNING! Read and understand the owner’s manual
of this paraglider before operation.
LTF 91/09 & EN 926-1:2006, 926-2:2013
EAPR GmbH, Marktstr. 11, D-87730 Bad Grönenbach
Paraglider:
Gleitschirm:
Conformity:
Geprüft von:
Te s t S t a n da r d :
Prüfrichtlinie:
Te s t C e n t er :
Prüfstelle:
Serial No.:
Werk Nr.:
Date:
Datum:
Prod. Dat.
Prod. Dat.
Xduo
LTF / E N - B
1
14 0 - 2 3 0 K G
36,0 M2
4+1
NO / NEIN
60 MM
–
15 0 H 2 4 M O N. / 150STD 24MON.
Yes / J A
YES / JA Weigh t:
Gewicht: 8,4KG
Test-flown by / Eingeflogen von :
Periodic inspection / Nachprüfung:
Repairs / Reparaturen: Date / Datum:
Gravity-Paragliders GmbH
Hütte 45 | A 6345 KÖSSEN
CONTACT
Te s t R e f e r e n c e - N o :
Musterprüf-Nr.:
Te s t R e f e r e n c e - N o :
Musterprüf-Nr.:
Class:
Klasse:
Number of seats:
Anzahl Sitze:
Startgewicht:
Startgewicht Motor:
Projected Area:
Projizierte Fläche:
Number of risers:
Anzahl Traggurte:
max.way of accelaration:
Beschleunigerweg:
Suitable for schooling:
Schulungstauglichkeit:
Perio dic ins pection after:
Regelmässig Nachprüfung nach:
Towing:
Windenschlepp:
gravity-paragliders.eu
Paragliding and Paramotoring is a hazardous activity that can and sometimes does result in severe injury or death. The designer, manufacturer,
distributor, wholesaler, instructor and retailer cannot and will not guarantee your safety when using this equipment nor accept responsibility
understand the correct and safe use of this equipment, to use it only for the purpose for which it is designed, and to practice all proper safety
procedures before and during use. Paragliding and Paramotoring require careful and constant care. Over time, solar radiation, dirt, dust,
grease, water, wind, stress, and other wear will degrade the materials, performance, and safety of the equipment, there by increasing the
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EN REV.V01 - 2020
2
POSSIBLE USE_
2.1
Motorised operations
The flight behaviour of the Xduo with motor is quite identical to that described in the Xduo
manual chapter “The Flight”. Due to the higher wing and surface loading in the extended
engine weight range, the according reactions are responding more dynamically. Opening the
trimmer reduces the angle of attack and also causes a higher speed and thus more dynamic
behaviour. It is recommended to keep the trimmers closed when flying through turbulent air.
In order to keep the take-off distance and take-off speed low, the trimmers remain closed
during take-off, especially when there is little wind. Although the Xduo has outstanding take-
off properties, attention must be paid that due to the extended engine weight range the take-
off and landing speed changes and alters noticeably.
2.2
E-climbing assistance/ E-ascent aid
Due to its unproblematic handling and high trim speed, the GRAVITY Xduo is ideally suited
for the e-ascent aid.
2.3
To wi n g w i n c h e s
The Xduo has no specifics when it comes to winching. But here a few tips that we urge every
pilot to take into consideration. If you are not operating at your usual winch, get acquainted
with the local procedures. Every visitor on unfamiliar flying grounds needs to get a good
briefing by a local pilot. At the start take special care that the glider is completely over the
pilot’s head before the start commando is given. Eventual corrections to the direction with
the brakes should not be applied before the canopy is over the pilot, otherwise the glider
could fall back through too intense braking or the glider is towed away in non-flight-ready
condition. The start commando must not be given before the glider is under absolute control.
Strong direction correction during the start phase and before reaching the safety height are
to be avoided. Attention also needs to be paid to the fact that a shallow angle is kept until
reaching safety height. Do not use a tow line tension over 150 kp with the Xduo.
– Never tow the GRAVITY Xduo with a load exceeding the approved weight limits
– All persons and facilities involved in winch operation must have the required
qualifications or approvals for towing paragliders on the winch. This applies to the
pilot, winch operator, towing device, towing pawl and all other devices for which a
certificate of competence is required
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3
THE DEFAULT SETTINGS_
Base- and brake-line adjustment The factory, default brake-line setting corresponds to 0-
leeway plus 5 cm. It is recommended to adjust your brake line travel after the first flight to
your personal preferences. Be aware not to adjust the brakes too short, otherwise the glider
may fly with a little, but continuous applied brake pressure. This could be extremely
dangerous during take-off, flight and landing! The afore mentioned factory brake setting
allows for ample brake travel in extreme flight situations as well as for landing. At the same
time it enables during flight at trim-speed a position of comfort for the pilots arms. In no case
the setup A, B and C main lines should be changed before the wing has been flown in the
original setup. Please also note that adjusting the height of the suspension to the hang points
on the harness, changes the relative braking travel. When setting the adjustment, it is to be
made certain that both sides are symmetrical and that a permanent knot is used. The bowline
works particularly well because of the fact that it weakens the lines the least with excellent
slip resistance.
PAY ATTENTION_
Please note that the relative braking distance changes with the height/ length of the harness.
When fixing the setting, make sure that both sides are symmetrical and that a permanent knot
is used. The double fisherman’s knot/ spar or pile stitch has proven particularly effective in
that since it weakens the lines the least with excellent slip resistance.
Illustration 05_ bowline/ double fisherman’s knot
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GRAVITY Xduo
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4
SECURITY PRECAUTIONS_
1. 1. Before the first flight, the cap, lines, all connections and sewing, the shackles, brake
lines and brake line knots as well as any twisted lines must be checked by appropriately
trained personnel and confirmed on the type plate
2. Make your first flight in a known flight area/ territory and in calm conditions
3. Test your GRAVITY Xduo only over water
4. During a "dynamic flight" the gravitation does not only affect you, but also on the
glider. Do not underestimate this state and the forces!
5. Always fly your GRAVITY Xduo with at least one rescue device!
6. Compliance with the air traffic act and regulations are applicable in the respective
country must be observed and revised carefully
7. Successful, certified completion of the appropriate training and license as well as the
current existence of the appropriate level of knowledge / the current flight experience
are prerequisites for using the GRAVITY Xduo
8. The use of suitable, tested and approved accessories (helmet, harness, rescue device)
is a prerequisite for using the GRAVITY Xduo
9. Carry out a thorough material check of your equipment (top sail, bottom sail, ribs,
especially the lines, carabiners, belt buckles, cloth, speed system, etc.) before every
start
10. A flight with a crack or hole in the wing or line can be life-threatening
11. Always make sure that the aircraft is in a proper flying condition and that the required
inspections have been carried out regularly
12. Be aware that as a pilot you must be physically and mentally able to carry out the
flight unimpeded. You have to concentrate fully on flying in order to possibly avoid
unpleasant flight conditions
13. Most accidents are due to pilot errors
14. Never fly near high-voltage lines, airports or highways, over people or during a
thunderstorm! Otherwise you could endanger the life and physical integrity of third
parties and / or your own and act grossly negligent at the same time!
15. The minimum distance must never be less than 50 m. At airports, this is a radius of 5
km
16. Find out about the prevailing weather conditions in the weather report and on site in
advance
17. Only use the GRAVITY Xduo at wind speeds where you are able to control the glider
100%
18. Never use the screen during approaching thunderstorms or storms or when there is a
high probability of thunderstorms or storms
19. Land immediately when thunderstorms or bad weathers approach!
20. Aerobatic flying is generally prohibited and life-threatening. Unpredictable flight
situations can occur that may get out of control. There is a risk of physical and thermal
overload on the material and/ or the pilot
PAY ATTENTION_
Failure to disregard one or more safety precautions or violation can
turn flight fun into a life-threatening event.
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5
DEVICE DESCRIPTION_
5.1
Short description
– A – Top Sail
– B – Risers
– C – Stabilo
– D - Riserbelt
Illustration 06_ device description
__ A = TOPSAIL
RISERS = B __
__ A = TOPSAIL
__ C = STABILO
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5.2
Te c h n i cal Data Xduo_
Illustration 05_ technological table
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5.3
Innovations on our Product_
The constant search for innovative technical and throughout high-performance solutions,
always serves a higher safety standard in paragliding. Here is an overview of our most
important innovations.
3D shape – providing specific tension control of the wing and therefore
optimized ballooning and wrinkle free outline
brake gathering system – this system allows the trailing edge on a calculated
shorter situation for positive influences the brake characteristic
miniribs – optimizing the wing profile alongside the trailing edge
brake gathering system – this system allows the trailing edge on a calculated
shorter situation for positive influences the brake characteristic
high definition profile – plastic rods are working in the upper-side of profile and
covering 45 to 80% on the cord
high pressure crossport design – provides an ideal cross aeration of the
crossports and helps you to balance the pressure differences on the inside of
the wing on extreme flight situations/ conditions
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5.4
Colours and Design_
“Never change a winning horse!”
One of the unique selling points of the GRAVITY product range is that each glider product is
only available in a single lead design and comes without colour variations or special designs.
That way we can maintain supply capability within the agreed lead times and can guarantee
the price stability. We are aiming at keeping basic calculations stable for sales and as well as
within the production processes with forecasted quantities. We have made a big effort at
creating each product of the glider product range holistically and to give each product unique
features and moreover high recognition values.
Illustration 08_ colour catalogue rendering
Illustration 09_ colour X duo
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5.5
Risers
The A- and B-risers have different colours and are equipped with the Pilot Assistant System
to ensure positive identification at take-off and during the flight with big ears. The D-riser is
equipped with the EAR-FIX-CLIP. The clamping device is elegantly covered with neoprene
and allows the pilot to fix the outer part of the split A lines at any desired position.
Illustration 10_ riserbelt
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Illustration 11_ riserbelt
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5.5 TRIMMER
Xduo 2 is equipped with an innovative trimmer system. The effective system avoids the
twisting of the profile through not only accelerating D and C level but also the B level is
adjusted in relation to the angle of attack. Thereby the form of the profile stays intact which
ensures clearly better gliding. GRAVITY recommends to keep the trimmer closed during take-
off and landing. All extreme flight attitudes (e.g. collapses) are occurring more dynamically at
higher speed. Further, the Xduo is equipped with the changeable trimmer band. That is easily
changed through a carabiner that is covered with neoprene. Other adjustable, removable or
variable mechanisms are not available.
Illustration 11_ trimmer tandemglider
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