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CRYSTAL
EMERALD
SAPPHIREEcho
EN/LTF-B
Bounce from one flying style to another, with an ECHO.
Size
m²
| XS | S | M | ML | L |
| 21 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 29 |
Specs
| XS | S | M | ML | L | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linear scaling factor | 0.96 | 1 | 1.04 | 1.08 | 1.12 |
| Projected area (m²) | 17.9 | 19.6 | 21.2 | 22.8 | 24.5 |
| Flat area (m²) | 21 | 23 | 25 | 26.8 | 28.9 |
| Glider weight (kg) | 3.7 | 3.9 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.7 |
| Total line length (m) | 210 | 230 | 250 | 268 | 289 |
| Height (m) | 6.7 | 7 | 7.3 | 7.5 | 7.8 |
| Number of main lines (A/B/C) | 3/4/3 | ||||
| Cells | 42 | ||||
| Flat aspect ratio | 5 | ||||
| Projected aspect ratio | 3.6 | ||||
| Root chord (m) | 2.6 | 2.7 | 2.8 | 2.9 | 3 |
| Flat span (m) | 10.2 | 10.7 | 11.2 | 11.6 | 12 |
| Projected span (m) | 8 | 8.4 | 8.8 | 9.1 | 9.4 |
| Trim speed (km/h) | 38 | ||||
| Top speed (km/h) | 50 | ||||
| Min sink (m/s) | 1 | ||||
| Best glide | 9 | ||||
| Weight range (kg) | 50-65 | 60-80 | 75-95 | 90-110 | 105-125 |
| Certification (EN/LTF) | B | ||||
Info
A resonance of the EPIC with a stripped-down line-set and a lighter mix of materials, the ECHO shaves 500-700g while offering extra performance and versatility for no compromise in safety.
As with the rest of the BGD range, the ECHO benefits from Bruce’s trademark sharp, easy handling. 3D CCB panel-shaping means a clean, high-performing aerofoil while lighter weight means less inertia, reduced shooting and increased roll stability.
Our strong shark nose adds stability to the leading edge at all speeds, and a silky-smooth Ronstan ball-bearing speed system keeps bar-action smooth on those long flights. The ECHO offers clear feedback with a relaxed feel in active air, and epic performance for its class!
Tech
Baby A-riser
We have added a 'big ears' A riser which is also on a ½ ratio with the rest of the A lines. This facilitates easy use of big ears while helping speed and stability while on bar. The speed system is light and simple without reflex really helping glide at speed.
Chord Cut Billow (CCB)
Chord Cut Billow technology has been developed to improve the form friction, glider stability and overall performance of our paragliders. Two seams run chord-wise across the top panels of the leading edge. They accommodate the panel ballooning that happens when the wing is inflated. Without CCB, up to five centimetres of excess material is created on the sides of an inflated flat panel when it bends over a wing profile. This results in wrinkles. Chord Cut Billow technology removes this excess material and the 3D panel has fewer ripples and improved rib profile shape and stability.
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!
Impeccable Spiral Behaviour
The spiral behaviour is astounding – spiral stability can be a problem with low aspect-ratio beginner wings, but we have tested the paraglider extensively, with different inclinations and sink rates, and never, ever has it stayed in a spiral, once! This is very unusual for a school glider and is a big safety bonus.
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 through 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.
Triple finger diagonals
Triple Finger Diagonals create a more solid and durable wing. Across the whole chord of the profile, three-piece diagonal supports pass through holes in the ribs. They ensure structural integrity by avoiding the cloth being loaded in the bias direction. This is particularly important near the trailing edge where the profile is thin and shallower diagonal ribs supporting high loads.
Weight-optimised ribs
We have maintained the strength and rigidity of the ribs while removing unnecessary material. This means less weight for no increase in cost or reduction in strength of the wing. The hole positioning and size depends on the loads taken locally by the sail, and it is thanks to recent developments in our software that it is now possible to accurately calculate this.
Target
The ECHO is THE all-rounder in our range, created for just-out-of training newbies, avid hike-and-flyers, cross-country pilots, world travellers, soarers, vol-et -skiers, wagga/soaring dudes and vol-bivouacers. With a solid blend of performance and no-stress safety the pilot who loves every kind of paragliding will find one wing does it all with this little lightweight package. Stripped-down, open-minded, and dressed to impress, the ECHO will please every pilot it floats over!
Designer's notes
Knowledge is power. To fly a wing well, I think it is important for a pilot to feel in control. Having an understanding of the air you are flying in is as important as the glider’s own passive safety. I design all my wings to give a reassuring level of feedback, to empower pilots with a good understanding of the conditions. I call it progressive stability, and my wings incrementally react to the different levels of turbulence, providing essential feedback, so the pilot can stay well within their comfort zone. Shielding a pilot from turbulence might make them feel safer initially, but they can be blissfully unaware of the risks they might be taking when the air is becoming more turbulent.
Fly safely, fly confidently, fly with progressive safety and know the air around you.
Read more about Progressive Stability in Cross Country's article "Icaristics - Shifting our Thinking on Safety" in issue 176.
Material
| Top surface | Dominico D20 36g/m² |
|---|---|
| Bottom surface | Porcher Skytex Classic II 27g/m² |
| Internal structure | Porcher Skytex hard finish 32g/m² |
| Nose reinforcing | Plastic wire 2,4mm |
| Risers | 12mm Kevlar / nylon webbing |
| Pulleys | Harken |
| Top lines | Liros DC |
| Middle lines | Edelrid Magix Pro Dry 8001U |
| Lower lines | Liros TSL |
| Brakes | Liros DC |
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