Aspen 4 online review

The new Aspen4 size 28 & 26 has arrrived at the Uk importers and the 24 will follow by mid feb.
The final testing was done in the South African Karoo and the test team reports that Gradient have exceeded their targets for this new Aspen. The innovative DD (double diagonal) system massively reduces line drag bringing a big gain in performance.  Test pilots comment that it is easier to fly than the Aspen3 and that the glider can make very nice flat turns in weaker conditions while still being easy to handle in the strong thermals. We can't wait to have a go!
  
And will review it here once we get a reasonable  spell of weather.


In the mean time here is some pilot feedback about the wing I don't know the pilot but have a link to direct you to his review this from the Pg forum thread
http://www.paraglidingforum.com/search.php?search_id=bestposts&return_chars=-1&topic=37410&quality=3

Some amazing footage deep within 7000-8000 metre territory

Two Aspen3s, 2 days, 285 km, 7045 m. Karimabad to K2 and back

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150390822251158&set=vb.51701827326&type=2&theater

Sorry you will need to copy and paste the link

Aspen 4 footage

 Some new Gradient Aspen 4. footage  from thomas de dorlodot.
  We are really excited about the Aspen 4 book your demo now and we will get it to yoa as soon as it is released.

Aspen 4 nears completion

Gradient make public news about the likely release date of the New Aspen 4.

Gradient is now in the  last stage of testing the new Aspen4. Size 28 has already successfully finished its flight tests and is now ready for EN-C certification with the design team very pleased with the finished result. They are now hard at work preparing the other Aspen4 sizes now. We expect sizes 28, 26 and 24 to be available to market around  November- December 2011. We are really excited by this new wing, as it will meet the needs of a large population of pilots and will easily rival the best of rest within the category.

The aim  to continue with the great Aspen line by developing a wing with exceptional performance, yet to not be a difficult EN-C glider or lose the typical Gradient handling and predictable behaviour Gradient owners enjoy. Through the optimisation of the line layout Gradient have managed to reduce the line consumption by more than 35% compared to the same size Aspen 3(28). This in large is due to a  new and unique development which they are calling the 'DDsystem'. An internal load distribution system which makes it possible to use only 48 hanging loops on the canopy. This thoughtful and clever optimisation has significantly reduced line drag without losing any of the feel, which Gradient are renowned for creating in all their wings.
It was rumoured that this may have come at the expense of added weight but Gradient designer Ondej has  used his considerable design 'magic' to balance the added complexity of the internal structure with the reduction of less weight with the reduced line set with the careful use of the nylon wire in the leading edge construction while adding  two more cells for the Aspen 4  to maintain a respectable overall weight of  5.8kg for the size 28.

AvaSport New patented rescue opening system!

After 2 years of development  and testing  AVA Sport have a new patented rescue opening system. They are now developing it so that it can be fiitted for all harnesses and of course they would like to make it with cerification before it finally goes to market.  It will be finished about end of January beginning of February next year.

 

Yet more great camera work from Team Freestyle.
The Freestyle2 has to be one of the most eyecatching gliders out at the moment. And so fun to fly as well!

New products from Gradient

Gradient have been busy while we have been enjoying this record British summer.

They have recently released the fantastically fun  freestyle 2 which aims to offer the expressive pilot, with its sensitive feedback the opportunity to show off your skill level, while providing you with that little extra  security when you want to hone your new moves. 

Training with the Freestyle2 will help take your flying to the next level !

The Gradient  rucksack for the 2012 season features  a new design and materials. Special attention has been given to the design of the main load bearing areas; where the shoulder straps join the base of the bag for example. This improved design and clever use of material geometry gives a far stronger bag without having to use extra reinforcements that add weight. The zips are reassuringly by YKK and they are further protected by 3 compression straps each side and one on the top, that take the strain off the zippers. the compression straps also allow effective compression of the load for the longer walk-ins. The hip belt has a zippered and lined pocket for mobile phone, wallet etc. the belt is well padded but can be removed to facilitate airline transport etc.. The rucksack is very comfortable and carries higher for improved ergonomics and better freedom of movement. The top pocket is a useful size and there is  a clear plastic information pocket next to the haulage strap located between the shoulder strap attachment points. The Rucksack is supplied with all new season models and is available individually in sizes M L XL for £80.00

Gradient have also produced a very functional protective concertina bag . with an extra padded leading edge protection as well as mesh ventilation and a two way YKK zipper. This is a simple yet essential accessory to help you look after your gliders leading edge.

  There are two packing straps within and a compression strap on the outside to secure the folded glider. Each strap is attached to the bag so they can't get lost. The main cover material is lightweight and of superior quality. The Gradient logo is printed on the outside. Available now as an optional  extra £50 or free when you buy your new glider from us.