Most-Asked Questions: Archives - BlackHawk Paramotors USA

How heavy is a Paramotor?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:17:27 +0000

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.

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How FAST does a Paramotor fly?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:16:04 +0000

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.

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What kind of FUEL does a Paramotor use?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:14:57 +0000

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 by. 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.

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Is it LEGAL to fly Tandem (2 people) in a Paramotor

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:01:14 +0000

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.

NOTE: As of 2019, the USPPA (United States Powered Paragliding Association) has been able to provide some Pilots with “Tandem exemptions” – allowing them to fly Tandem IF specific requirements are met. If this is something you are interested in, please contact the USPPA or BlackHawk Paramotors for more information: 833-PPG-FLYR.

BlackHawk TANDEM Adventure Videos:

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Is it EASY to transport a Paramotor?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 19:43:31 +0000

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)

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How much does a Paramotor cost?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 19:33:10 +0000

A Paramotor is the most affordable personal aircraft out there. BlackHawk Paramotors USA are the ONLY manufacturer selling COMPLETE Paramotor Package Deals for under $8k which INCLUDE THE GLIDER. 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.

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How much do lessons cost?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 00:13:26 +0000

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 contact the USPPA to see if the Instructor holds a rating or has continued their education as a pilot over the years.

Paramotor Lessons:

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How far can you go on a tank of gas?

admin — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 00:03:51 +0000

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!

XC Paramotor Adventure Flights:

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How high can you go in a Paramotor?

admin — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 23:53:08 +0000

You can legally fly up to (under) 18,000 feet in a Powered Paraglider! It’s extremely rare for pilots to climb to such altitudes. Special adjustments, skills, and equipment (like an oxygen tank) would be required, and climbing to such elevations can put unnecessary strain on the motor. Not to mention, it can get quite cold up there! Most pilots fly from a few feet off the ground, to a couple thousand feet. As mentioned before, this sport is all about “low and slow.”

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Can someone with disabilities fly a Paramotor?

admin — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 23:48:31 +0000

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.

Paraplegic Man Learns to Fly a Paramotor:

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