Mar 30, 2018 Enjoy this collection of some of my paragliding clips over the span of eight years prior to paramotoring. Each has its own level of fun and flying experience. I apologize for the video quality. Paramotor adventures begin here! Welcome to Paraglider Mall! We sell all of the best paramotors and paraglider gear on the market today. We have the best advice for your future paramotor! Are you in the market for a exiting adventure?
Powered Paragliding is the safest, cheapest, and most convenient way to have your own personal flying machine. You don’t even need a pilot’s license, and it takes less than a week to learn how to fly one! To sum it up, it’s basically a “parachute with a backpack motor” or a “motorized version of Paragliding.” There are two different types of Powered Paragliders or “Paramotors.” The most common is called a “Foot-Launch” unit, where the pilot wears a backpack-style 2-stroke motor, and has to physically run to become airborne. The second type is called a “Quad” or “Trike” unit, where the motor is mounted to a go-kart-style platform with wheels. To decide which type of unit is appropriate for you, it’s best that you talk to an expert. BlackHawk Paramotors USA is one of the largest manufacturers of Powered Paragliding equipment in the world, and their staff is always available to help. Many factors like weight, age, physical ability, takeoff elevation, and flying-style determine which gear is best suited for an individual.
Most people are familiar with Parasailing, Sky-Diving, Base Jumping, or Wing Suits. Powered Paragliding however, is still a foreign concept to many people and you don’t have to be a “thrill-seeker” to enjoy it. Powered Paragliding is all about “low and slow leisure flight.” The best part is ANYONE can do it! Do you need a pilot’s license?No! There is no license needed whatsoever to become a Paramotor Pilot! There are also NO insurance requirements, NO annual inspections, and NO hanger fees! This alone saves aviation enthusiasts thousands of dollars.
You won’t find a more affordable way to have your very own personal flying machine.CAUTION: Not needing a license has it’s benefits, however, no license means no regulating body. Unfortunately, anyone can open up a flight school, claim to be a expert, and start teaching people how to fly. This is happening more than people realize. To address this very concern, several of the industry’s TOP experts got together to create “The United States Powered Paragliding Association or USPPA.
To this day, the USPPA is a non-profit organization, ran by volunteers, and remains the most recognized organization in the industry. This organization has created an exceptional quality control system through progressive pilot ratings systems, their thorough training syllabus for USPPA Certified Instructors to follow, and their open line of forum-based communication. Proper training is what will keep you safe in this sport. That being said, it’s highly recommended that you have the actual Paramotor manufacturer recommend a training facility to you. Don’t go for “the guy down the street” offering lessons because it’s close or convenient.
Watch out for Instructors who talk negatively about organizations designed to promote safety in the sport. These are commonly Instructors who have “burned their bridges” or have been kicked out of these organizations due to their behavior. The USPPA documents incidents and issues pilots have experienced. That being said, if you are concerned about the reputation of a specific Dealer or Instructor, to contact the USPPA. Take your time in locating a certified, experienced, and knowledgeable instructor. To talk to an industry expert and start your adventure today, call (209) 786-7899.
Is it SAFE to fly a Powered Paraglider? What if the motor quits?Yes In fact, it’s the safest form of personal aviation bar-none.
You are basically “flying a parachute.” People frequently ask “what happens if the motor dies,” and then catch themselves, saying “oh yeah, it’s a parachute! You just glide down.” Efficient gliders (like a for example) have a phenomenal “glide ratio” of 9.4:1. This means the glider will travel 9.4 feet forward, for every 1 foot down.
If the motor shuts off, this will give the pilot plenty of time to locate an alternate landing site. For comparison, and to get an idea of how efficient these “Paragliders” are, standard modern “parachutes” have glide ratios of only 3:1! Beginner Gliders are designed to stay extremely pressurized, they are very forgiving to the pilot’s input, and have the natural tendency to fly straight by themselves. In addition to the many passive-safety features on a Paramotor, pilots also fly with reserve parachutes, flotation devices, helmets, communication radios, and a basic tool kit. Aside from having the proper equipment, what keeps people safe in this sport is completing a professional training course from a CERTIFIED Instructor. Stay away from Instructors claiming to offer free Paramotor Lessons (this is discussed further below) or those who are not Certified to teach. You should NEVER attempt to teach yourself how to operate a Paramotor, even if you have a pilot’s license.
This cannot be emphasized enough! This form of aviation is much different from any other type out there, and requires specific technique. How much room do I need to takeoff & land?Hardly any! Many pilots will pull their motor out of the garage and takeoff right there from their yard!
You don’t need a formal runway for Powered Paragliding. On average, Foot-Launch pilots can be airborne by running ONLY 10-50 feet. Many factors can effect takeoff distances like wind conditions, wind direction, type or size of glider, size of motor, pilot weight, and especially a pilot’s level of skill. For Quad Paramotor Flight, most pilots are airborne within 30-125 feet. Much less distance is needed for landing. Foot-Launch Paramotor pilots can touch down, literally take a couple small steps, and be completely grounded. For Quads, the pilot can touch-down and come to a complete stop within 10-50 feet of travel.
This again depends on conditions and skill-level. Even though it doesn’t take much room to takeoff or land, the rate of climb needs to be taken into consideration. If there are trees, power lines, or other obstacles surrounding the field you are taking off from, you may need additional room to “climb out.” Check with your Certified Flight Instructor or Manufacturer for approximate climb-out rates for your specific Paramotor configuration. Are there AGE or WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS?AGE: There are many pilots in their 70’s and up who fly quite regularly.
That being said, there isn’t an age cap on this sport. There are also young teens who fly with their parents.
It really comes down to common sense If you can’t drive a car safely, you should probably not be flying any type of aircraft. If there is any question, just ask a Certified Flight Instructor or Dealer if this sport is right for you.WEIGHT: There are no pilot weight restrictions in this sport. The only weight regulated is the total weight of the actual Paramotor. That being said, any machine being sold by a manufacturer as a “Powered Paraglider” or “Paramotor” will meet the weight exemption requirements. This is a “weight sensitive sport” and the power-to-weight ratio we are seeing from recent technology is astounding! Companies like BlackHawk Paramotors are producing motors which can take up to a 600 lb. Can Someone With Physical Disabilities Fly a Powered Paraglider?Absolutely!
Many pilots out there have back issues, bad knees, or other joint problems which can limit mobility. Fortunately, they can take advantage of flying a Paramotor mounted to a Quad or wheeled platform. BlackHawk Paramotors USA is even offering FREE BASIC MODIFICATIONS to their machines to accommodate those with disabilities or special needs. Recently, a paraplegic man named Russel Metlitzky of California became a Paramotor Pilot.
Russel was paralyzed from the chest down in his mid 20’s due to a tragic motorcycle accident. This didn’t stop him from following his dream of personal flight. With some basic modifications to his Paramotor, Russel is able to enjoy this sport like anyone else. How long can you fly on a tank of gas?On average, pilots can expect to get 45-60 minutes flight per gallon of gas.
With a standard 3.5 gallon tank, one could fly anywhere from 2-4 hours. This of course depends on factors like throttle use, headwind speed, payload, size of engine, fuel efficiency, glide-ratio, and flying-style. Many pilots enjoy climbing up to a high altitude, shutting the motor off, and utilizing the thermals to fly for hours. Once they get back down to a low altitude, they can reach back, start up the motor, and do it all over again! That being said, you could stay airborne all day if conditions were optimal!
Why are there Pilot Ratings if it’s a non-licensed sport?Over the last decade, the sport has grown dramatically. With this growth, industry leaders started to notice a trend in sub-par training resulting in more personal injuries. Several industry leaders and Instructors got together to create an organization called the.
This is a non-profit organization, run by volunteers. Their goal was to create a unified and standardized training syllabus, ensuring that all pilots are provided the sufficient knowledge needed to fly safely.
In addition to their thorough training outline, the USPPA created a 3-level pilot rating system, challenging pilots to continue their education past the initial training. These are known as PPG1, PPG2, and PPG3 ratings. Each rating requires that the pilot demonstrates specific skill sets. There are also written tests which must be passed and signed off by a USPPA Certified Instructor. WATCH OUT for potential Instructors who discount the USPPA or its rating systems.
These are usually individuals who have been kicked out of the organization due to poor conduct or endangering others. For more information on ratings specifics, to locate a Certified USPPA Instructor, or to learn more about the USPPA, please click the logo below. How much do Paramotor lessons cost?On average, schools charge anywhere from $1200-$2500 for a 3-7 days of lessons. As with many things, you get what you pay for, and considering the training is what will keep you safe, shortcuts should not be taken here.
Many people get excited when they discover this sport and they seek out the cheapest or closest Instructor to them. DO YOUR RESEARCH when choosing a school. Your life could very well depend on it. An easy way to make sure you are in good hands is to call an actual manufacturer of Powered Paragliding equipment and have them recommend an Instructor to you.
You can also to see if the Instructor holds a rating or has continued their education as a pilot over the years. SCAM WARNING: Recently, there have been a couple of Paramotor Instructors are claiming to offer “Free Paramotor Training” or “Free Powered Paragliding Lessons.” Some of them even claim that they will travel to all 50 States. There have been countless students contacting industry leaders and sharing their horrible experiences with this so called “free” Paramotor Training. Many of them sadly never return to the sport.
This needs to stop! Powered Paragliding is a wonderful, life-changing experience, and should be enjoyed by all.
To combat this recent trend of frustrated pilots, we have written an article addressing this very issue. Please consider reading it if you are considering one of these “free” programs. How much does a Paramotor cost?A Paramotor is the most affordable personal aircraft out there. BlackHawk Paramotors USA are the ONLY manufacturer selling They basically cost less than what a quad or motorcycle would, and just imagine the potential of what you could do with your own flying machine! The possibilities are endless!
Imported Paramotors (which most other brands are) can cost thousands more than domestically produced machines. Most of the prices of imported machines DO NOT INCLUDE a glider or any flight accessories. Another concern is availability of parts. Pilots don’t want to wait weeks for a simple part to arrive from overseas. That being said, your money and time will go a lot farther with a domestic manufacturer who offers package deals.
One last thing to consider is the fact that Powered Paragliding is a weight sensitive sport. If you are a heavier pilot, you may need a larger motor or glider. If you live in a place like Colorado and launch from 7,000 feet regularly, you may need a different glider or motor to handle those demands.
Higher elevations equates to “thinner air” or less “lift.” For an exact price quote or equipment recommendations, simply call (209) 786-7899. Is it easy to transport a Paramotor?Of course! Most machines are specifically designed to break down for transport. Some will even fit into a large suitcase, or the trunk of your car!
This makes traveling with them a breeze. Typically, Paramotor cages break down into multiple sections, the propeller can be easily removed, harnesses detach, and gliders can be folded down to a very compact size. This alone appeals to so many people who don’t have the room to store or transport an airplane. Many pilots take their Paramotors with them when traveling abroad due to their ease of transport.
There are also many pilots who keep their motor with them at all times in the case they pass by a spot worth exploring. For pilots who don’t want to disassemble their machine each time, there are now several companies making racks which allow the Paramotor to be mounted to the back of a small car. Larger units like Paramotor Quads are commonly transported in the back of a truck. Even smaller-bed trucks will work with many of the motors out there. Most Paramotor platforms allow for the easy removal of axels, and cage pieces can be broken down. For those who have a small car and still desire a Paramotor with a Quad, small gardening trailers can easily transport the unit.(Three BlackHawk Paramotors Easily Fit Into This Truck).
Is it legal to fly Tandem (2 people) in a Paramotor?It is technically ILLEGAL in the United States to fly tandem in a Powered Paraglider. That being said, people frequently ask “Why are companies selling them if they are illegal in the US?” The answer is simple: Powered Paragliding is a global industry, and there are many countries where it is totally legal to fly a Tandem Paramotor. Many people have set up successful Tandem businesses, especially in tourist-rich locations. Tandem LowBoy II Paramotor Quads can be found on BlackHawk’s website for this very reason. There are very few regulations in this sport, and this just happens to be one of them. We are regulated by part 103 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. In order to legally fly tandem in a Powered Paraglider, there are very specific procedures that need to be followed. If this is something you are interested in, please contact BlackHawk Paramotors for more details by calling (209) 786-7899. What kind of fuel does a Paramotor require?Most Paramotors utilize 2-stroke motors, with a fuel-to-oil mix.
We always recommend using premium unleaded fuel (ethanol free if possible), and high-quality synthetic 2-stroke motor oil. Always refer to your engine manual or manufacturer for the exact fuel-to-oil mix. Many European Paramotors require the use of “aviation fuel,” which can be very expensive and hard to come.
If a Paramotor engine is designed and built properly, it should easily run on high-octane auto fuel. You should be able to purchase fuel anywhere, instead of having to locate an airport. How fast does a Paramotor fly?On average, beginner gliders have a cruising speed of 18-25 MPH.
Skilled pilots can achieve much greater speeds by incorporating speed-bar systems, flying a smaller-sized glider, flying an advanced glider with Reflex Technology, or flying with the wind. In general, if you want to fly fast, buy an airplane!
If you are looking for a low-and-slow way to explore the world from above, you’ve come to the right place! Keep in mind that there is a fine line between performance and safety. Gliders which are smaller, faster, or utilize more advanced flying configurations (like speed-bars) can often have less passive safety features than standard gliders.
Always check with your Certified Flight Instructor prior to purchasing a new glider to MAKE SURE it coincides with your level of skill. What do the engines weigh?Total unit weight for most Foot-Launch Paramotors can range from 45-75 lbs, depending on the size of motor and amount of fuel.
Multiple straps & attachment points on the harness distribute the pilot’s body weight evenly – similar to how a hiking backpack functions. This keeps the motor weight very manageable for most people. Keep in mind that the pilot only needs to support this weight for a brief moment during takeoff. Once they are airborne, the weight is burdened by the Paraglider. Accessories like reserve parachutes, helmets, or communication systems can also add additional weight and should be considered. Weight concerns mostly apply to those flying Foot-Launch Paramotors. Those flying Paramotor Quads obviously don’t have support the weight of the machine, making it less of a concern.
Disclaimer & Warning About Paramotoring, Paramotor Equipment, and Training: Powered Paragliding, as with any form of flight, carries potential risks including personal injury, property damage, or death. This sport can be as safe or as dangerous as you choose to make it. All Equipment is not intended for acrobatic or competitive use, in any way, shape or form.
Do not purchase equipment or participate in this sport unless you are prepared to personally assume ALL risks. We require you receive professional training from a QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR before you attempt to assemble, start, use or fly your Paramotor / Powered Paragliding equipment. Self-training greatly increases your chances of equipment and physical damage or death.
Beware of purchasing used equipment, Do it Yourself kits, PPG Plans, or anything for sale on online auction sites at under market prices. ALL participation in this sport is at your own risk.
Paramotor showing how seat bottom moves to allow for easy ground handling.Paramotor is the generic name for the harness and propulsive portion of a ('PPG'). There are two basic types of paramotors: foot launch and wheel launch.Foot launch models consist of a frame with harness, fuel tank, engine, and propeller. A hoop with protective netting primarily keeps lines out of the propeller. The unit is worn like a large backpack to which a Paraglider is attached through.Wheel launch units either come as complete units with their own motor, or as an add-on to a foot launch paramotor. They usually have 3 (trike) or 4 (quad) wheels, with seats for one or two occupants. These should not be confused with which are generally much heavier, more powerful, and have different steering.The term was first used by Englishman Mike Byrne in 1980 and popularized in France around 1986 when La Mouette began adapting power to the then-new paraglider wings.Power plants are almost exclusively small engines, between 80 cc and 350 cc, that burn a mixture of gasoline and oil. These engines are favored for their quick high r.p.m.
Thrust and low weight, using approximately 3.7 litres (1 US Gal.) of fuel per hour depending on paraglider efficiency, the weight of unit plus pilot, and flying weather conditions. At least one manufacturer is producing a 4-stroke model favored for its strong lower r.p.m. Thrust and better. Electrically powered units also exist, though flight duration is considerably limited on the battery's electrical capacity. Csaba Lemak created the first electric PPG, flying it first on 13 June 2006. Paramotors are also available, but rare.The pilot controls thrust via a hand-held throttle and steers using the wings brake toggles or stabilo steering, weight shifting or a combination of the three. It is identical to Paragliding except it is powered so the use of an elevation or thermals to ascend are not required.
Paramotor wings have evolved specifically for use with power propulsion, as compared with free flight 'paraglider' wings. Such wings are typically designed for a higher speed and may incorporate a 'reflex' profile to aid stability in pitch, an idea taken from of the 1980s. Paramotor wings typically use trimmers to adjust the Angle of Attack of the wing to either slow it down or speed it up in flight. Trimmed out allows the pilot to achieve maximum speed, while trimmed in allows for slower speeds optimized for launching and landing.The most difficult aspect of paramotoring is controlling the wing (paraglider) on the ground. This control is both during launch and upon landing. Initial training in becoming a paramotor pilot involves managing the wing in the air from the ground without the motor.
This process is called kiting and is the most complicated and important step in the process. Once kiting the wing on the ground is mastered then the motor is added to the process to practice with the weight of the paramotor included. A typical paramotor will weigh on average around 50 lbs.
(23 kg) with some models as light at 40 lbs. (18 kg) and some models as high as 75 lbs. (34 kg.) The size of the paramotor wing and engine are dependent on the weight of the pilot.The larger the pilot, the larger the size of the wing and thrust required to launch. Most individuals in reasonably good health can foot-launch a paramotor and there are even pilots with artificial joints foot launching.
Individuals that may have issues with the physical aspect of foot launching may opt to add a trike or quad to their paramotor. A trike or quad is a platform to which the paramotor can be attached so it can be launched from wheels like a regular aircraft or powered parachute.This sport has evolved and now many advanced pilots perform extreme maneuvers such as wing-overs, barrel rolls and loops. These types of maneuvers present a significant danger as any type of negative G's encountered will unload the wing allowing the wings lines to go slack. Only very advanced pilots with years of experience, training and coupled with countermeasures such as reserve parachutes should attempt such maneuvers. A reserve parachute is a highly recommended piece of equipment which may prevent significant injury or death in the presence of a malfunction of the equipment or a mistake made by the pilot.References.