UP Team Pilot Franzi tested our 16 m² Miniwing with a takeoff weight of about 68 kg - in the lower third of the certified weight range - on several mountain tours. Here is her report.
The Design:
"The KAILASH has a straightforward line setup and clearly color-coded risers, which allows for quick setup at the launch site. The risers are lightweight and therefore prone to twisting, which requires care when attaching them. If you keep the glider and harness connected during transport, you won’t have any problems at all, and even otherwise, twisted risers can be easily prevented with a little double-check. Climbing gear, two days’ worth of food, a rereserve, harness, and glider all fit easily into a 35-liter backpack.
When it comes to the canopy, the KAILASH offers a sensible compromise between lightness and durability: The canopy is made primarily of lightweight Porcher Skytex 27 Classic II, while the front section of the upper sail and the leading edge are made of robust Porcher Skytex 32 Universal. Incidentally, the use of line locks and a pulley for the accelerator also help reduce wear on the glider."
Glider Behavior:
"Even in light winds, the canopy climbs quickly and evenly. Excessive steering via the A-lines - and thus the risk of a pulled front collapse - doesn’t seem to be an issue with this wing. The wing takes off well even at moderate speeds. In strong winds, the canopy exhibits more dynamic behavior and rapid climb, though overshooting can be easily stopped with a light brake input.
In flight, it’s clear that you’re flying a true mini-wing. The handling is direct, and the glider is very agile. At the same time, the glider impresses with relatively docile behavior in turbulent air and comfortable brake pressure. With piloting experience appropriate for this class, the glider is easy to control and allows for fun maneuvers. When the wing loading and thermal strength are right, you can even gain altitude. Combined with its surprisingly good glide performance, this glider will take you quite far."
Conclusion:
"A small packed size, low weight, yet robust construction, and simple yet agile handling make the KAILASH - weighing 1.95 kg in size 16 - a very well-designed mountain paraglider."