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Base Lite

EN/LTF-B

Made for vol-bivouac adventures and travelling the globe, the Base Lite is capable of big XCs and won’t weigh you down.

Size

S M ML
23 25 26

Specs

  S M ML
Linear scaling factor 0.95 1 1.03
Projected area (m²) 18.7 20.7 21.8
Flat area (m²) 22.6 25 26.3
Glider weight (kg) 4.1 4.4 4.6
Total line length (m) 221 245 257
Height (m) 7.1 7.2 7.4
Number of main lines (A/B/C) 3/4/3
Cells 46
Flat aspect ratio 5.7
Projected aspect ratio 4.1
Root chord (m) 2.5 2.61 2.68
Flat span (m) 11.2 11.8 12.1
Projected span (m) 8.7 9.2 9.4
Trim speed (km/h) 39
Top speed (km/h) 58
Min sink (m/s) 1
Best glide 10.5
Weight range (kg) 60-80 75-95 85-105
Certification (EN/LTF) B

Info

The Base Lite is the best Sport class paraglider we have ever made. Based on the EN-B Base, the Base Lite really pulled out all the stops in a paraglider. Lighter means less inertia, creating higher overall performance, reduced shooting, increased roll stability and easier, sharper handling. Bruce increased the usable speed range by adding up to 3km/h to the top speed through the optimised speed bar. The ultra-streamline line set, mixing PPSL with both Kevlar and Dyneema micro lines, reduces drag and really improves performance by up to one point in the glide. Plastic wire reinforced leading edge mini-ribs create a solid leading edge on speed by essentially adding 80 cells without the weight/seams of full ribs. In addition, the Base Lite has a strong sharknose, Cord Cut Billow and Bruce Goldsmith handling. And all that fits into a little bag, amazing!

All in all, the Base Lite launches in the most ambitious patches, sniffs and bites thermals like a great white, climbs like a eagle, speeds like Road Runner, and glides like a foiling catamaran, with an improvement in passive safety.

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Tech

BGD Feedback

Gliders that talk are safer. Safer gliders make pilots perform better. Better performing pilots fly further. Further flying pilots are happier pilots. BGD Feedback produces happier pilots!

Leading edge mini-ribs

Situated along the leading edge are reinforced mini-ribs, designed to help produce a rock-solid profile while on speed bar.

Integrated Line Layout

The line layout of our gliders is fully integrated into the wing design. Sail and lines are designed together, holistically. The cell widths and the internal straps that transfer the load though the sail are all designed according to the line layout. Even the panel shaping is matched with the line layout though detailed CAD simulation. The result is simple: fewer lines and stronger, faster, safer gliders.

Progressive Stability

Using ALULA, BGD gliders are designed to have a stable and solid centre with progressively softer tips. This teaches pilots to predict and avoid deflations and stay aware of the air.

Snap Locks

Snap Locks are lightweight, compact attachments that connect the brakes to the risers. A small focused magnet inside the catch and an internal locking system hold the handle in place, releasing only if the handles are pulled down towards the pilot. This unique design feature means the handles don’t fall off while kiting, packing, or performing manoeuvres. The Snap Lock system solves many of the problems associated with press-studs and magnets.

Strong shark nose

An ultra aggressive shark nose optimises stability at all speeds. Not all sharks are created equal and BGD’s shark noses are very aggressive, maximising the effects of the technology.

Target

It’s 9am and the first cycle is impatiently pushing against the inversion layer. You’re huffing and puffing, determined to get to the small clearing you saw at first light. You look behind and see the fast-approaching floating seeds and butterflies. You say to yourself, “Come on! This is what all the training was for, put the gas on, you can rest at base.” Luckily, by taking the best kit possible you got your small pack down to 7.6kg and you can almost jog the last 200 metres, outrunning those pesky insects and floating debris. You pull the As. The glider almost self-launches and lifts you away from your scabby launch. The sharknose bites hard into the first cycle and doesn’t let go. Now with a sigh of relief you’re banked up, spiralling to base, excited to see how fast and long this downwind dash is going to be.

Every athlete knows the importance of lightweight, fast, high-performing gear especially if time is of the essence. The Base Lite was designed for the pilot who craves epic vol-bivouac (sky-camping ) adventures, travelling the world and the occasional top-to-bottom comfort flight. Climb freely, broaden your horizon and be the first to base with the Base Lite.


Designer's notes

Working towards a PWC title, I am exhausted after every task and couldn't possibly contemplate having to hike any further than to the closest bar. The Red Bull X-Alps has changed the sport and I look at the athletes in total awe. I designed the Base Lite with this class of pilot in mind; reduced weight and increased performance without compromise. The Base Lite is a stellar Sport class paraglider that delivers unparalleled advantages to vol-bivouac pilots, mountaineers, and world travellers.
Call it comfort or laziness but I have to admit in my free time I often choose to fly the Base Lite – the saved weight makes a noticeable difference on my back. I can pack it into my carry-on bag when I travel, and obviously the added performance is always appreciated.

Flying Level / Style

Package includes

Paraglider / Gift / Rucksack / Repair material / Stuff sack / Riser bag / Compression strap / manuals / BGD stickers