chieftan

Thanks guys, there isn't anything on the market that appeals to me so I might have a look into building something myself (no experience and niaive ) Does anyone have any ideas what the smallest engine could be used (what about a Stihl chainsaw engine and its sprag clutch) at 46cm2 it produces 3.6bhp and 2.4kw of useable power. My GCSE calcualtions suggest that I would only need 1.6kw to maintain straigt and level flight (don't ask how I came to that, correct me if I am wrong) mechanical energy required would deplete 10-15% of the 2.4KW (what is a normal prop efficiency 70%+?) leaving me with 55% overall efficiency. Oh dear, I already see a shortfall. Help me out please.

There must be a few paramotoring manufacturers missing a trick. I fly a PAP Top 80 and would gladly lose my 400f/min full throttle climbs for an ultra-compact and super light unit that develops enough thrust for launch (I rarely use full throttle!) and for max 100f/min climbs. The idea being that the unit could be intergrated or developed around free flying and the better handling characteristics would allow higher profile, more efficient wings to be flown. I would love to try my Rebel on power but find my motor far to cumbersome to have any real attempt at thermalling. If it were developed to be suitable for more experienced flyers then the cage could be made out of plastic and other weight saving methods used as practicle. Less fuel too. Any suggestions.