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Paramotor

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File:WikipediaParamotor.jpg
A paramotor in flight

Paramotor is a generic name for the propulsive portion of a powered paraglider ("PPG"). It consists of a frame that combines the motor, propeller, harness (with integrated seat) and cage. It provides two attachment points for the risers of a paraglider wing that allows for powered flight.

The term was first used by Englishman Mike Byrne in 1980[1] and popularized in France around 1986 when La Mouette began adapting power to the then-new paraglider wings.

Pilots who fly these engage in paramotoring, also known as powered paragliding.

Engines used are almost exclusively small two-stroke types, between 80cc and 350cc, that burn mixed gasoline and oil. These engines are favored for their high output power and light weight and use approximately 3.7 litres (1 US Gal.) of fuel per hour depending on paraglider efficiency, weight of motor plus pilot and conditions. At least one manufacturer is producing a 4-stroke model. Electrically powered units are on the horizon. Csaba Lemak created the first electric PPG, flying it first on June 13, 2006.[2][3] Flight duration for electrics is considerably shorter. Wankel rotary engined paramotors are also available, but rare.

The pilot controls thrust via a hand-held throttle and steers using the paraglider's brake toggles similar to sport parachutists.

One of the best examples of the sport in action is the Parabatix Sky Racers; an air racing event using paramotors to race round pylons right in front of spectators. [4]

References

  1. ^ Goin, Jeff (2006). Dennis Pagen (ed.). The Powered Paragliding Bible. p. 253. ISBN 0-9770966-0-2.
  2. ^ "Marks Paragliding Pages". First Electric PPG. Mark Andrews. 2006-06-13. Retrieved 2007-01-25.
  3. ^ "Electric PPG Questions". Electric Paramotor Website. Airhead Creations. 2006-06-25. Retrieved 2007-01-25.
  4. ^ Parabatix Sky Racers
  • Paragliding - Many of the flight principles outlined there also apply to paramotoring.
  • Parabatix Sky Racers A competition / show based event and generally a great promotion for paramotoring.
  • Eggmotor Project A website dedicated to Do-It-Yourself 4 stroke paramotor projects.
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