bathboy

From Colin (GST).

They have literally (0738L) just got airborne and the cruelist trick available has been played by the Gods. Simon has remained on the ground with a technical problem. Only Whitters and Dan have made it into the air for the last 14 miles. They can see John O'Groats from their position but are still flying into a 15-20mph headwind.

What a finale, what a wicked trick but as Colin said, "If one man makes it across the line, we have won!"

I find myself agreeing with him and keeping my fingers crossed that my private provisos to his statement are all met.

I brim with admiration for their courage and fortitude - every man Jack of them.

Second update hand via Chris who spoke to Pete Baldwin at Wick...with about 10 miles to go.

Only Richard Whitmarsh (Parajet) and Dan Burton (Fresh Breeze Simonini) can still fly as all the other Parajets have engine problems. Petes warms up all ok, but looses power just after take off.

Everyone is impressed with the Revolutions.

Pete has had problems with his all the way. Apparently the only problem that Dan has had since Lands End is a broken pull start....so they are prop starting it to get around it.

Cheers

Paul

I'm not that clued up on wings and haven't tried many. You need to set out what you want to achieve. At your level you require safety first and then need to decide if you want speed, which you will, efficiency and or thermalling, which you probably wont want for a while. I would say get a cheap safe wing to learn on and then invest more in your second one perhaps when you have 25 hours flown.

dave

Dave,

I totally agree as that's exactly what I did. Started with a cheaper (safer?) slower wing then after 20ish flights changed to the faster take-off and landing reflex profile Action.

Of those I've asked, the used low hours Revo/Synths for sale are from newbies that bought (were sold?) too fast a wing from new, found it too hard, so gave up.

Cheers

Paul

Found this home grown weather station near JOG/Thurso.

http://www.tugmistress.co.uk/index.php? ... r&Itemid=8

Cheers

Paul

Is it just me or have we lost the tracking page?

Same here.

Not sure if related, but it looked funny when I looked last night. Showed only two tracks going in diffferent directions.

Cheers

Paul

Learning lots on the Tip to Tip.

3 days in Roche, followed by a day and a half on Dartmoor really sharpens up the weather eye!

Amazed, and very proud of the guys as they have forged on through conditions 'Armchair Pilots' wouldn't dream of going out for a smoke in!

Looking forward to reaching John O'Groats now. Not least because the guys have earned the glory and of course because it means I can get back home and strap myself in to a motor and throw myself at the sky again

Great to hear from you!

How about getting the Ground Crew Logs added to the site?

I'm sure you must have a good stories to tell us and you all deserve the recognition.

Cheers

Paul

Hi Stuart,

Any update yet with regards to what number tracker or route track colour belongs to which Pilot.

Cheers

Terry

Pretty please!

Cheers

Paul

This is great watching them fly over god's country

They are showing now at Ingleton near the lovely sets of waterfalls. While walking we saw them for the first time a few weeks ago, they should look stunning today with all this rain.

Cheers

Paul

One of the purposes of this trip is to see how a paramotor can be improved for safety and reliability.

After my researches into prop strike/brake handle wraps a few months ago (thanks to all who contributed) Parajet have looked very seriously at the issue and have now devised an aesthetic solution for their machines. My brief was for the gap(s) to be no more than 25mm and must be tested with (and resist penetration) end-on handle striking it at airspeed.

Their solution is now being tested and will shortly be standard on all new machines and available as retro fit to existing ones. NB it is NOT netting!!!!

I am just as concerned by the rush to fit DIY netting to existing machines of all makes and urge all manufacturers to follow Parajet's lead and look closely at their nets (if fitted) and design retro fit solutions for existing customers that meet the requirements. DIY can in some cases lead to more dangers than they solve.

Francis, I applaud your sentiment. The growing number of us with brake eating experience know this must be good (if overdue?) news. Not sure that 'all manufacturers to follow Parajet's lead' is true. From personal experience and from reading this forum, it looks transposed.

My Volution cage was a backward step 'brake contact' safety, but an improvement in 'crash' safety and ease of manufacturing compared with my previous DK/Parajet cage.

Many other manufacturers already have better 'brake contact' safety. Obviously, some/all manufacturers continuously improve, but this in not the same as 'following Parajet's lead' so they may misunderstand your intentions.

Please with the tip-to-tip pilots still at it on Parajets (without the mod or netting protecting their brakes?) can we bring the focus back on what Parajet are doing to improve their safety.

As no one else is flying in the $% weather! Once they are safe, then the rest of us can look at leisure in our warm dry garages.

Pictures of modified Parajet would be great, please?

Cheers

Paul

You can download the Google Earth track points here (right click and "save link as"). These are the raw points from the very beginning, including when the guys have left their trackers on all night so there is a lot of data and some of it just wanders around in fields

If you decide to buy a SPOT tracker do please let SPOT know that you're supporting Tip To Tip. They've promised to let us have the purchase price for any units purchased because of the project as a donation to the charities. Outstanding support. There is a subscription element to the service so read the details carefully to make sure you know which service you want.

More fun later.

Stuart

THANKS SLIM

Is it possible to tell us who has each track/er (or just post an index) on http://www.tricerion.com/TipToTipTrack.php ?

Cheers

Paul

Paul,

That is a great idea but to be scientific the conditions need to be controlled don't they. V23b has done some comparative work across a couple of different wing types and had some interesting results, sometimes not at all what the scuttlebutt seems to suggest.

As for me getting involved, I don't currently have the time or experience to devote to the project unfortunately. But what a valuable one for the wider community?

Similar rules as applied by 'Which' would need to apply I think. No involvement by the wing manufacturers and and strictly controlled conditions.

I agree you'd want some scientific (numeric) stuff, but not all. Touchy opinions like 'ease', 'feel' and 'confidence' can be more important in many circumstances that mpg, min/max speed etc. Any other thoughts?

Cheers

Paul

Having not owned, flown, bought or sold either. This is my from the ground opinion.

1) Neither are a beginner wing, but a Synth is closer to one than the Revo

2) More second hand "I'm giving up" low hours Revo's around, possibly due to 1)

3) Having marshalled at the 2007 UK NATS, the Synth looked easier to launch in nil wind, both were okay with wind.

Cheers

Paul

P.S.

Norman,

You've flown owned both, I've flown Action and a Nova. Shall we have a go at starting your 'Which' idea?

At the moment it looks as if we may get stuck in Cornwall on Tue and Wed due to wind and rain whilst the rest of the country enjoy dry weather light to moderate Southerlys

Is it possible to go a day early, on the Monday and get out of the Southwest and beat the weather???

Just a thought.

Regards Whitters.

Richard,

As your local Jethro would say 'Youu'rrre a blluuddy smmaarrt arsss!

Tis lovely up 'ere

Good Luck and Fly Safe

Cheers

Paul

yes it is just action not gt however i aint sure but do i need to put brake imput to lift and will i come in fast on this wing?

The Action and ReAction are great wings, but are not the wing for a total beginner.

Mine needs loads of speed to lanuch, for landing this speed must then be bled aware before you flare or !!!.

Also, it turns so quick it will surprise you if you overuse the brakes.

That said, the Action/ReAction section is still winning the competitions, it is almost unknown to collaspe when going fast on reflex (hands off the brakes), recovers well from spins etc. and is still the choice of Mr Carnet, who knows his stuff.

Personally, I agree with Francis. I don't see the need/advantage to learn/start to fly on a Reflex wing. Please learn on a normal wing (with DHV1-2 rating?) as they are designed to be easy to launch and land. Also, they require less energy (running speed) to launch.

For most people this all means:

Reflex = more failed launches, exhaustion, so more time on the ground, poor fast landings and a damaged cage.

Normal wing = launch easier. less failed launches, more time in the air, poor slow landing and a dirty cage.

Once you've sussed it, then use the second hand Action or other reflex wing

I'm not saying don't own/buy a reflex wing, as they transform long distance flying.

Cheers

Paul

Just an update. I have now been airborn and am keen to keep going but SW and a few of the lads are on the Tip to Tip (as I am sure you know) so I am, once again, looking for a field nearby to practice in.

If anybody can help it will save me trudging down to Lambourn on my own for the next couple of weeks until SW gets back.

Regards

Eddie

07863156080

Eddie,

Have you asked all the farms nearer than Lambourne yet?

Across the country fields are being cut just for us So now is a good time.

I asked one in Bath after seeing a recently cut field, then going back when they were there and he instatly said yes.

Good Luck

Cheers

Paul

Has anyone got or can get an easy start?

its the cable that you plug in to your cigarette lighter socket and the other end in to another cars cigarette lighter socket to charge the battery if its gone flat.

Pete b

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Search.aspx?cri ... ce=15&SD=Y

Great minds....

Yes, I bought two different cheap types after trusty Parajet did a no start once. Both worked so I leave one in the tool box and the other in the car.

I now use it every time on the way to a flyin.

You can have them both for a few weeks. I'm home Friday if you want to collect and have a brew?

Cheers

Paul

Paul (Bathboy) saw 2 pilots over the Kelston and Weston area of Bath last night.

Just wondering if it was anyone that lurks on here.

Paul asked me to post this as he has no net access today!

Cheers

Malc

Success. We found them via http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PilotsPPGclubUK/

Three more from around the Bristol area that like to use their motors in nil wind and evenings when the hills don't work.

Cheers

Paul

I have spare a twin socket with two usb sockets (http://www.maplin.co.uk/Search.aspx?cri ... ce=15&SD=Y)

yours for £13 or its going back offer ends tonight as I will have to phone them for a returns No in the morning.

Pete b

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH its nearly here

Pete,

Yes please. If it helps you can keep it as a spare for the next weeks, as I hear you are on some trip;-)? Then I'll collect it.

Cheers

Paul

I'm with Pete. Memory Map is the dogs for all outdoor activities not just flying. Another big advantage is you can print the map at the scale to suit you to take as a back-up for when the sun shines on your screen.

Cheap from eBay even for legal versions. PM me if you need more convincing.

Cheers

Paul

I've decided to sell my Nova Rotor. This is a DHV 1-2 Paramotor wing that can be used as a DHV 1 paraglider when you change the riser settings.

Bit like the first girlfriend, I'm reluctant to see her go and won't ever forget the great fun we had together. I learnt my ground handling and flying on this wing. It is nice, easy and slow to launch and land.

So, if you are just getting into the sport or want the flexibility of a duel purpose glider, read on.

It is a used glider, but has been cared for as if my life depended on it, kept aired and dry, is in very good repair, serviceable and flyable. I had a lot of fun and many great memories flying it.

It has been regularly winter serviced by the Loft, never left in the sun or the wet. The last service was 8th October, last flight was 11th May. Service note is available and obviously you are welcome to check the wing out.

I used it for my first 21 flights (logged 11 1/2 hours) and then wanted to try something smaller/faster.

This is the large version suitable for pilots with an all up weight of 95kg to 150kg. My total weight is around 130kg and it landed me very nicely.

http://www.para2000.info/wings/nova/rotor.html

The colour is Blue and White, with Black check pattern at one end. Here are pictures of me launching it http://www.paramotorclub.org/forum/albu ... user_id=34

Some of this video was filmed from it and shows it (at approx 1 minute 40) flying over Wales at the last Homegrown.

Usual warning, paramotoring is a dangerous sport without the proper training, so get some.

It comes with the service history, an inner bag and outer rucksack. Asking price only £895 can include a comfortable ground handling

harness.

Cheers

Paul

Thanks guys that's very kind. I'm on holiday from the 17th Aug to the 7th Sep. I have to visit family but hope to make time to come to visit.

Best Regards

Alan

I'll be driving near you to/from the Strathaven (nr Glasgow) Balloon meeting 23/24 August. A few of us with Paramotors will be there.

Cheers

Paul

Here is a list of the things that the locals are not happy about and I have had e-mails about. (as a means of getting the message out)

This is a positive thing becasue it means that the flyin will still be around next year so we can all go!

People will make complaints about us in the air, we have to be seen to be acting in a positive way to prevent them from happening again. The last thing PPG pilots need is the local councils preventing flyins due to noise, risk to public, and so on. (and it can happen overnight!)

Paramotor Pilots overflew Hotels on Weymouth Seafront at dangerously low height. (50ft)

They also flew over a suburb called Wyke Regis again at rooftop height.

Report from the RSPB Bird Warden alleges they flew through the Tern Reserves along Chesil Beach and the "Restricted" rare bird nesting areas of Portland.

Details of the suggesated no fly zones in the area can be found on the wessex hgpg site.

I know nothing about this, I am just helping to keep your locals happy by spreading the word which is...

PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR (OR OTHER PEOPLES) LOCALS WHEN FLYING.

SW

Thanks Simon.

Sadly, they all probable as I know some flew in that direction. Shame as Ben circulated local no fly areas and a copy of the airmap showing the Fleet bird area at the end of Chesil Beach.

The nesting area on Portland wasn't on the airmap, has anyone any idea how to get the extra no fly zones on the Wessex hgpg site added to the airmap?

I'll copy this all those I know.

Cheers

Paul

Still enthusiastic of course!

Urm just a few quick money questions for you gurus out there... Training for something i can ill afford is false economy.

1. Excluding fuel and treating yourselves to equipment, what is the average maintenance cost per year assuming you look after your kit etc (appreciate this is very broad).

2. General figure for insurance please. I carry on hearing its like 70.00 but i am VERY sceptical.

3. Cost of radio equipment (what is should look for).

4a. Fuel hungry wings i should avoid (weigh 80kg)

4b. Fuel hungry motors i should avoid.

5. Excluding training costs (which have been agreed). Can someone just give me an educated figure for sensible 2nd hand gear.

Sorry for posting uninteresting fodder however i would rather be clear in my mind than waste simons time at a later date.

i should imagine simon will be the first to reply

CHEERS

jonathan

Imagine you are buying a motorised uni-cycle. Fuel cost aren't that relevant compared with the cost if/when you drop it.

Usually strength and easy repair of cage and cheap props will save you more than fuel in your first year of ownership.

Cheers

Paul

I just read the latest news of the intrepid Belguims, as their News/Blog page can translated into English and other languages.

I wondered if you coulds reuse their site idea to get more international coverage/money for T2T?

http://www.bxlistanbul.be/2008/07/15/15 ... -reportee/ should explain what I mean

Cheers

Paul

The fly in at Weymouth turned out brilliant...

Sunday morning was a perfect day and nil wind. A handlful of pilots set off for Swanage and back ...

Many thanks for Ben for organising the event and such a picturesk venue.

Mike

I was in that handful! At 54 miles this was my longest out and return flight - and along such a stunning coastline - it will take something very special to better it.

Ben on his RAD was a more economical and outlasted my bigger tank Parajet - so after a mirror check - I had to leave him at Swanage as he went on towards Studland

I hadn't appreciated all the places we went on holidays as a kids - Lulworth, Corfe, Studland and Whareham - were so close.

Thanks Ben and all those that made it such a memorable flight and weekend.

Cheers

Paul

I'm at home in Lytham St Anne's for holidays but unfortunately don't have any equipment in the UK yet! When I do it would be nice to get together to fly as you are only just up the road.

Alan

Alan,

If you come South to Bath you can borrow mine. It would be nice to meet outside Saudi

Cheers

Paul