Paratrike. Determining the length of the straps and the seat height

The distance between the straps depends entirely on the paraglider being used. If no information is available from the manufacturer, 60 centimeters is considered sufficient for single-seat powered paragliders. For two-seat paragliders or high-performance powered paragliders, the standard is 65 to 70 cm. If the distance between the straps exceeds 70 cm, the tubes usually get in the way and make it difficult for the pilot to access the controls. The seat height and hand positions are determined by the straps and the wing’s trimmers. As for the center of gravity, the lower the better—but there is another important aspect to consider. Motorized and two-seater paragliders usually have trimmers. It is important for the pilot to ensure that, with the trimmers set to maximum speed, they can reach the controls or pull them quickly and easily. With the controls in the fully up position and the trimmers set to maximum speed, the pilot’s shoulders should not bump against the paratrike’s tubes or force the pilot to sit up or shift position in the seat; pushing the foot-controlled steering is a very common mistake that is highly inadvisable. It is very important to check this to ensure that the flight is as comfortable and smooth as possible. This check is also very important for reflex wings because, with them, the travel of the trimmer tabs is longer and the additional controls for reflex mode extend higher. You must measure how everything fits and not forget to measure the length of the carabiner and the travel of the trike’s suspension. Some wings have “ears” on the A-strap; if the geometry changes, reaching the “ear” at maximum speed with the trimmers released isn’t so easy.