| There are now many different
types and design of rigid wing hang gliders but overall
their performance is superior to other types of non-motorised
flight. The performance of a rigid wing hang glider is similar
to that of a glider but the hang glider pilot can take off
by simply running along the ground. The rigid wing hang
glider is, in fact, a simpler version of the glider and
has a similar delta-shaped wing. The wing is usually made
of stretched Dacron or other completely synthetic material.
The hang glider can be manoeuvred through two or three axes,
just like an aeroplane, by manipulating the spoilers, the
ailerons or the control surfaces, which are linked to a
kind of joystick by a system of rods. The pilot is normally
in a seated position or supine in a streamlined cockpit.
It is possible to take off by running along the ground or
by being towed behind a micro-light. The pilot may land
on his own feet or the hang glider may be fitted with wheels.
A rigid wing hang glider normally weighs about 50 kilos.
The wing can be folded and stored in a long flat box,
which can be transported either on the roof of a car or
towed in its container. The wing is approximately 15 -
25 mm thick and its aerodynamic performance is similar
to that of the early gliders, with a cruising speed of
around 50 km per hour and a maximum speed of 120 to 150
km per hour.
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