Up have expanded their product range with a third EN-B paraglider, called the Kibo. It is a mid-level EN-B paraglider, designed to progress on, and fitting into UP’s range between the Makalu 4 and the Summit XC3.
UP say the Kibo is the perfect blend of a very safe and forgiving beginner’s wing, and a performance-and-XC paraglider; It will teach its pilot how performance gliders fly, but will look after them while doing so.
UP say the Kibo’s handling is optimised for maximum performance in lift and for transmitting information about the air to the pilot. It is more communicative than the Makalu 4, but more relaxing to fly than the Summit XC3.
Here at UP we think of our new baby as the perfect mile-muncher, going through XC kilometres like Smarties and being very relaxed about it all the way. The way it flies is reminiscent of the UP Summit XC3, just easier, so the novice XC pilot may clock up those important hours and kilometres safe in the knowledge that the wing will be looking after them.
The UP Kibo uses a similar New Generation Aerofoil to the one used on the Summit XC3 and the Trango XC3, but optimised for this category of wing. This means a moderate shark-nose shape, perfect for biting through turbulence and staying open when the going gets rough. Just like its performance siblings it converts bumps to altitude well, meaning it will help the budding XC pilot get the most out of every outing both in terms of flying pleasure and experience accrual.
UP Kibo technical data
The Kibo is available in three standard colours. The M size is now certified for 85-110kg and delivery is expected to start in March 2016, and three more sizes will follow.
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