GRAVITY Xceed User manual
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
Xceed_ DGAC paramotor wing
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 Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
1
PRODUCT_ ...........................................................................................................................................7
1.1
GRAVITY Xceed_ innovation is the best driver ...................................................................7
1.2
Pilot Profile...................................................................................................................................... 9
1.3
Use ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.4
Signboard ........................................................................................................................................ 11
2
POSSIBLE USE_ ................................................................................................................................ 12
2.1
Motorised paragliding ................................................................................................................ 12
2.2
Towing winches............................................................................................................................ 12
3
THE DEFAULT SETTINGS_............................................................................................................ 12
4
SECURITY PRECAUTIONS_...........................................................................................................14
5
DEVICE DESCRIPTION_ ................................................................................................................. 15
5.1
Short description ......................................................................................................................... 15
5.2
Risers ...............................................................................................................................................16
5.3
Speed system................................................................................................................................ 17
5.4
Trimmer........................................................................................................................................... 17
5.5
3D Steering – Brake and Stabi................................................................................................ 23
5.6
Technical Data Xceed _ ............................................................................................................24
5.7
Colours and Design_ .................................................................................................................. 25
5.8
Environmental aspects.............................................................................................................. 26
5.9
TRANSPORTATION and STORAGE_ .................................................................................... 26
6
THE FLIGHT_ .................................................................................................................................... 27
6.1
Flying experience........................................................................................................................ 27
6.2
Take-off.......................................................................................................................................... 27
6.3
Turning flight................................................................................................................................ 28
6.4
Active flying.................................................................................................................................. 28
6.5
Landing .......................................................................................................................................... 28
7
RAPID DESCENT_ ........................................................................................................................... 29
7.1.1
„Big Ears“....................................................................................................................................... 29
7.1.2
B-Stall......................................................................................................................................... 29
7.2
Extreme flight manoeuvres......................................................................................................30
7.3
Spiral dive......................................................................................................................................30
7.4
Wingover .......................................................................................................................................30
7.5
Full Frontal..................................................................................................................................... 31
7.6
Collapses......................................................................................................................................... 31
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7.7
How to avoid collapses .............................................................................................................. 31
7.8
Deep stall....................................................................................................................................... 32
7.9
Full stall .......................................................................................................................................... 32
7.10
Negative spin ............................................................................................................................... 33
7.11
Emergency piloting/ control ................................................................................................... 33
8
REPAIRS_...........................................................................................................................................34
9
MAINTENANCE and CLEANING_ ...............................................................................................34
9.1
Packing........................................................................................................................................... 35
9.2
Recycle........................................................................................................................................... 35
10
FLYING ACCESSORIES_...........................................................................................................36
10.1
Xfusion _ guard, performance and quality - in a petite pack ....................................... 36
11
PRESUMPTION OF RISK_ ............................................................................................................. 37
12
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER_............................................................................................................... 37
13
SAFETY NOTE and LIABILITY_ .............................................................................................. 38
14
LIABILITY EXEMPTION and WAIVER_................................................................................. 38
15
MAINTENANCE MANUAL_ ...................................................................................................... 39
15.1
Subject to inspection and inspection intervals ................................................................. 39
15.2
Who is authorized to check?................................................................................................... 39
15.3
Rescue inspection equipment................................................................................................. 39
15.4
Holes and cracks ........................................................................................................................ 40
15.5
Abrasion and expansions ........................................................................................................ 40
15.6
Tear resistance control ............................................................................................................ 40
15.7
Canopy porosity measurements ........................................................................................... 40
15.8
Connecting parts..........................................................................................................................41
15.9
Lines .................................................................................................................................................41
15.10
Tensile strength values and tear resistance...................................................................42
15.11
Checking line lengths and fixings......................................................................................42
15.12
Line length measurements: ................................................................................................. 42
15.13
Stitch/ Sewing control of trimming and settings.........................................................43
15.14
Miscellaneous...........................................................................................................................43
16
IMPORTANT -> carried out inspections...............................................................................43
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
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
owner & sales
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
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 Xceed
as safe and easy as possible.
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
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1
PRODUCT_
1.1
GRAVITY Xceed_ innovation is the best driver
The Xceed is amongst the first gliders newly conceptualized and designed to also operate
with electric motors and units. The engine’s efficiency itself often only plays a minor role,
when flying a paramotor combustion engine – whereas it is key when flying an electrical
engine.
Illustration 01_ GRAVITY Xceed
Xceed is a resourceful aircraft to acquire skills further on reflex wings. With increasing speed
the reflex effect enhances by modifying the profile, enabling the pilot an ideal introduction of
the reflex technology. It offers immense enjoyment and pleasure aspects already from the
beginning as the handling is truly simple. The Xceed is equipped with Tip-Steering making up
for a comfortable and stress-free take-off with no wind already at morning dew. Electric
mobility is already the future of today’s mobility. The Xceed is the first motorized paraglider
that was also designed and built for electrical operation. While the energy efficiency of the
wing only plays a secondary role in the combustion engine, it ensures an elementary
performance increase in the electric actuator. The Xceed is a truly diverse and versatile cruiser
with which you can grow your skills, developing them further. This is guaranteed by a variable
reflex profile, which adapts linearly as the speed increases and thus offers the perfect entry
into the reflex class for those wanting to shift. Even ambitious pilots can accelerate the fun
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
factor when flying the Xceed. The resourceful Xceed offers immense enjoyment and pleasure
aspects already from the beginning as the handling is truly simple. The Xceed is equipped
with Tip-Steering making up for a comfortable and stress-free take-off with no wind already
at morning dew.
Illustration 02_ GRAVITY Xceed
Chief designer Ernst Strobl strikes the balance ideally between high performance and
maximum safety with the Xceed. The wing has been equipped with the latest technological
features. The shark nose specially calculated for the reflex profile reinforces the high stability
of the profile in turbulent air and ensures a larger angle of attack. The PPN and a 3D shape
(3DS) give the wing increased profile accuracy along the leading edge. The High Pressure
Crossport Design (HPCD) optimizes the cross ventilation of the crossports and creates a
balanced internal pressure of the wing. Miniribs (MRB) and the Brake Gathering System (BGS)
ensure efficient transmission of the brakes in the rear area. The line geometry is based on a
comparatively large number of starting points in order to ensure that the wing maintains the
required shape despite the variable profile. In addition, the surface load on the individual
suspension points is minimized, which means that the line diameters can be optimized. The
shoulder strap is equipped with a trimmer and a smooth-running accelerator. The innovative
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USER MANUAL
GRAVITY Xceed
EN REV.V01 - 2020
ergonomic bar handle for the tip steering can be perfectly integrated into the shoulder strap
using magnets. The Xceed was developed together with Paramotor professional and took
over two years in its realisation, implementing extensive know-how from training, evaluation
and competing. Low cap weight with a long service life and durability- this is promised by the
smart material mix in combination with the high quality of the PROGRESS. The wing is made
of 100% Skytex premium fabric. The best abrasion resistance in combination with selective
reinforcements lead to permanent form stability and a long service life. The Xceed is the
perfect choice for pilots who want to develop their skills further and wanting to grow with
drive and who value maximum safety. The versatile semi-reflex wing offers beginners a
comfortable introduction and entry into the fascinating world of motorized paragliding. The
cruiser delivers high energy efficiency, which is particularly evident when it comes to thermals
and soaring. The economic performance profile ensures a wide range of speeds, with which
even ambitious pilots can accelerate their fun factor.
1.2
Pilot Profile
The Xceed is the perfect choice for pilots who want to develop their skills as well as
themselves further with passion and ambition, while valuing value maximum safety. The
versatile semi-reflex wing offers a comfortable entry into the fascinating world of motorized
paragliding. The cruiser delivers high energy efficiency which is particularly evident in the
thermals and comes into play with soaring. The economic performance profile ensures a wide
range of speeds, with which even ambitious pilots can accelerate their fun factor. The Xceed
is based on the latest development knowledge and is therefore at the maximum of the safety
standard in its class. We ask you to always pursue aviation with the proper cautiousness and
respect. This includes profound, extensive flight preparation as well as the examination of
meteorological conditions and the proper evaluation of the weather situation. Act defensively
and proactive at all times!
Remember that increasing fun by reducing risks!
Illustration 03_ GRAVITY Xceed
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The easy handling of the Xceed comes into play right from the very beginning. Almost, as if
pushing a button, the wing rises over the pilot with only a slight impulse and aligns itself
independently.
Illustration 04_ GRAVITY Xceed
Due to the excellent gliding capability even in the lower speed range, the Xceed reaches flight
ability very quickly, which means that only a minimal take-off is necessary to take off. Since
the conditions of motorized paragliding are often impeded due to increased load, a lot of
emphasis was placed on reliable take-off behaviour. Even with no wind in wet morning dew,
the Xceed starts impressively easy. In flight, the wing offers very precise handling and cuts
through the air like a blade - the control pressures are kept very low. The Xceed is equipped
with tip steering. Known from the field of competition, the control of the outer wing ensures
a very efficient transmission of the control impulses and thus a significantly lower energy and
performance loss and air resistance.
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1.3
Use
The Xceed is a versatile semi-reflective wing and offers changeovers a comfortable entry into
the fascinating world of motorized paragliding. The cruiser delivers high energy efficiency,
which is particularly evident when it comes to thermals and soaring. The Xceed was built
exclusively for single-seat use and is a light air sports device with a unladen weight of less
than 120 kg in the paraglider division.
The Xceed has DGAC approval. The approval of the product was carried out and conducted
according to current legal requirements and specifications:
• Inspection guidelines: DGAC, ULM CLASS 1 IDENTIFICATION
• Accredited testing centre: Republique Francaise Ministry of Ecology, Sustained
Development and Energy
1.4
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 05_ Signboard
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GRAVITY Xceed
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2
POSSIBLE USE_
2.1
Motorised paragliding
The Xceed was developed for motorized use. Please note that NO ACRO MANEUVERS are
permitted in motorized operation. The extremely high wing load, due to the additional motor
weight also pushes the GRAVITY Xceed to its limits. The permissible weight limits must not
be exceeded at any time!
2.2
To wi n g w i n c h e s
The GRAVITY Xceed offers excellent starting characteristics with its high trim speed, best
conditions for towing winches. The following must be observed and revised when towing
winches/ aerotow:
• The GRAVITY Xceed must not be towed over 100 kp
• Unless towing on your “house winch”, it is absolutely necessary to familiarize
yourself with the local conditions in advance. Every “guest” in a foreign/ new flight
area must be instructed by the local pilots.
• Never tow the GRAVITY Xceed 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
3
THE DEFAULT SETTINGS_
The delivered brake line and default setting corresponds to the setting 0-leeway plus 5 cm.
It is recommended to adjust the brake handle to your personal needs after the first flight.
Remember that the brakes should not be set too short, otherwise the glider would fly
continuously braked. These situations would be extremely dangerous for take-off, flight and
landing!
The default setting is in extreme flight situations and when landing sufficient braking distance
available. At the same time, it enables a comfortable arm position for the trim flight. Under no
circumstances should the basic setting of the A, B and C lines be changed.
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Illustration 06_ Bowline
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.
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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 Xceed 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 Xceed 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 Xceed
8. The use of suitable, tested and approved accessories (helmet, harness, rescue device)
is a prerequisite for using the GRAVITY Xceed
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 Xceed 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 07_ device description
__ A = TOPSAIL
RISERS = B __
__ A = TOPSAIL
__ C = STABILO
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5.2
Risers
The A- and B-risers have different colour codes to ensure positive identification at take-off
and during a B-stall decent. Other adjustable, removable or variable mechanisms are non-
existent.
Number of risers: 3 + 2. The risers of the U-Turn PROGRESS consist of 10mm Dyneema
tube-webbing
Illustration 08_ riserbelt
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5.3
Speed system
The GRAVITY Xceed is equipped with a very effective foot actuated speed system. When
applied, it increases the speed up to approx. 15 km / h depending on the wing size, pilot
weight and surface loading respectively. Consequently, it shouldn’t be activated in extreme
flight conditions or deactivated as soon as such occurs. All extreme flight attitudes (e.g.
collapses) happen more dynamically at higher speed. Since the maximum acceleration
distance refers to the safety behaviour of the wing, it may occur that some harnesses won’t
be able to use the full acceleration distance!
The speed system needs to be adjusted accordingly before the first flight. Therefore, the
connection lines of the foot extensor are being connected through the brummel hooks with
the speed system on the riser.
To be able to undertake the right adjustment the harness should be hung up so you can sit in
flying position. The attached risers are best held up by someone else. It should be adjusted in
a way so that the pulleys are on top of each other and you have your legs stretched out. And
you are also responsible to watch out that the speed system is adjusted symmetrically and
not too short so the glider is not pre-accelerated in the flight.
Make sure to always operate the accelerator in a way that you feel comfortable under your
glider at all times.
PAY ATTENTION_
It is essential to ensure that the accelerator is not set too short so
that the glider is not pre-accelerated.
5.4
Trimmer
The trimmer is used for 2 applications. For the constant high-speed flight and the slight curve
behaviour due to the induced propeller torque.
The torque brought about by the propeller, which affects the glider like the one-sided weight
shift, can be compensated for by finely dosed opening of the trimmer on the inside of the
curve.
The trimmer has a wide adjustment range. For take-off and normal flight, the trimmer should
be set to neutral (markings). The Xceed has a small negative-trim span which enables a slow-
down for landing. Be careful, the negative trim can cause a delay during a stall manoeuvre.
The trimmer is set positive in order to continuously fly faster. Make sure that you always open
the trimmer at the same time! Especially with the smaller wing sizes, opening the trimmer on
one side can lead to a sporty turn away. The same applies to the closing! Should you not
operate the trimmer symmetrically, change it gradually and step by step. The fast side with
the trimmer fully open - DO NOT slow down via the main brake to maintain the straight flight
but only via the Tip-Steer.
PAY ATTENTION_
In fast flight with activated accelerator or open trimmer, only use
the TipSteer for steering.
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Influential steering factors on the reflex profile
In contrast to active flying with mountain gliders, the use of brakes with reflex wings in
turbulent air is rather counterproductive and can lead to front collapses. By using the main
brake, the pressure point is shifted further back, which reduces the reflex-typical high
pressure in the wing nose, which can cause the front to fold in.
Therefore, only operate the Tip-Steer when the trimmer is open or the accelerator is activated.
OPENED TRIMMER
Fast flight - pressure point moves forward and ensures high stability of the wing front, which
almost eliminates the susceptibility to front collapses. The righting moment increases the
angle of attack.
OPENED TRIMMER – APPLICATION OF MAIN BRAKES
The action of the main brake even with minimal effort ensures that the pressure point moves
backwards. this can lead to front collapses. The righting moment reduces the angle of attack.
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CLOSED TRIMMER
When the trimmers are closed, the profile behaves similar to a mountain umbrella. Useful for
thermal flying and take-offs with zero wind. the brake acts like a mountain wing.
Illustration 09_ tip-steering profile Xceed
When the trimmer is open or the accelerator is activated, the wing forms a reflex profile. This
should not be affected by operating the main brake. The Tip Steer has no influence on the
reflex profile. Especially for pilots with a lot of mountain paragliding experience it is unusual
to release the brakes. However, pulling the main brake results in the loss of the reflex
properties.
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Illustration 10_ riser belt situation trimmer
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