We’ve watched four pilots fly lightweight versions of it in the Red Bull X-Alps, and now Nova’s much-anticipated EN C paraglider, the Factor 2, is available for all.
Nova say it shares many of the characteristics that made their EN B Mentor 2 such a huge success, but it has a better glide and top speed than the EN B wing, and is more dynamic with even more precise handling.
Nova say both wings are very stable even when accelerated, and both offer what Nova call “achievable performance”, meaning they perform well in ‘real’ thermal conditions and not only in glide ratio comparison flights in still air.
Performancewise, Nova claim “We have never been able to increase the performance between two product generations as much as from Factor 1 to Factor 2” and it “clearly outperforms” the Mentor 2.
The Factor 2 is quite a different design from its predecessor. It has a whole new aerofoil, mini ribs in the trailing edge and only three levels of lines with fewer attachment points at each line level, saving on drag. Rods replace Mylar in the leading edge, and are more sturdy and lighter. They do not require any special packing techniques either, Nova asure us.
Sizes S and M are certified EN C, with XS and L to follow.
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