Paramotor or Ultralight - Which one do I prefer now?

The question I keep getting asked is which do I prefer. It's not a straight forward Yes or no. The paramotor has taken me places I could never have dreamed, over 4 miles high and over 300 miles non-stop as well as the adventure flying on the ICARUS X. The Flexwing has allowed my dream of owning an aeroplane come to fruition and is stress free (on the body) flying. However they both have huge plus points as well as negatives. I like both and feel that one form of flying does not actually replace the other. While my knees and legs still work, I will be flying both and that is a joy and a pleasure.
I hope you enjoy this video.
Kit and equipment that i use for my Vlogs:
The paramotor is s Parajet Maverick, with a Moster 185 Plus, Eprop.
The wing is a Hadron XX 22
The Aircraft that I am flying is a Flylight PeaBee:
www.peabee.co.uk.flylight.co.uk
My radio and communications set up is:
ICARO Solar X Helmet with MicroAvionics PM100 (Vlog modified by MicroAviconics)
www.microavionics.com/paramot
...
My Airband radio ( I have the appropriate Licences) is :
www.microavionics.com/yaesu-f
...
Camera and Microphones:
Flight Briefing room
Sony HX300 and a ICE microphone
Flying cameras
GoPro 3+, GP6 and 7.
Insta360 X one
Flying Clothing:
FlyKandy Jacket and trousers
OZEE flying suit and OZEE mittens with woolen mittens inside.
30Seven heated gloves

[@flyingkub]

People always think you have to like one more than another, I fly or have flown: Sail planes, hang gliders, foot launch powered hang gliders, paragliders, paramotors, light aircraft, 3 axis microlight and helicopters. My answer is simple “The one I am flying at the time”.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I do like that one Algy. I like it.

[@Make_Boxing_Great_Again]

You are basically saying that you change your mind every time you fly an aircraft. Pilots should be decisive and not prone to frequently changing their mind.

[@peteturner4535]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 I'm only 6 hrs in but fly trike and foot launch.

[@MrGoMario]

@@Make_Boxing_Great_Again You said he said that... Hmmm... I say he did not say that. What now?

[@Make_Boxing_Great_Again]

MrGoMario If I stated something controversial then further substantiations may be useful. However, I’m not, your being flippant, and facts are facts. My point is that pilots should be decisive. If you think that pilots should be confused and prone to changing their mind frequently then feel free to state your case. If you new favourite aircraft is the one that you just jumped in, by definition you have changed your mind from the last different aircraft you were in. Debating you is like playing chess with a pigeon, they shit all over the board knock over the pieces and then declare victory. Try again kid.

[@royaldecreeforthechurchofm8409]

Keen to get into the sport thanks for the info

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I'm glad the video helped.

[@fastfreddy19641]

Just had my first paramotor lesson yesterday and I'm bloody nackered but looking forward to getting in the air. Great video.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

You'll never look back. It's an amazing sport.

[@Carl_Bismarck]

Whats nackered?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

He's tired, (knackered)

[@zadokmotorfreight2423]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 ......or "missed the landing" Lol!!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@zadokmotorfreight2423 I'm not sure of the context.. missed the landing??

[@alienlatino2945]

Finally, a British video I can actually understand the English. I want to get into this hobby when I retire 10 years from now, it looks even more fun than my motorcycle!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I'm glad you can understand my video, I do try and make them easy to follow. I think a lot will have changed in 10 years, paragliding and paramotoring has changed a lot in the decade that I have been flying. I was always advised, never wait till retirement, as life takes over. If you really want to do something, throw your heart and passion into it. I actually sold my motorcycle to buy my PeaBee flexwing ultralight, best decision ever.

[@alienlatino2945]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Now I'm having second thoughts. Paragliding is dangerous. I just saw a video here on KZbin where a guy's parachute (exactly like the ones used by paragliders) flips in mid-air and he comes head down on his own parachute and it tangles up. He was lucky he had a back-up parachute which almost didn't deploy because it got tangled with the 1st chute. No thanks man.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@alienlatino2945 aviation is dangerous, that's no lie, but, and here is the but, if you train well and understand the environment your are in, it can be as as you make it. Unfortunately KZbin seems to like showing all the extreme events.

[@rosshorton9182]

@@alienlatino2945 I've been curious too. If it settles your nerves any, I read this in an article examining paramotoring: "...Research estimates that the activity is slightly safer (per event) than riding motorcycles and more dangerous than riding in cars...". If you're already a biker, you're probably more at risk than someone paramotoring. I probably still won't ever do it, but I'd be more likely to try it than the odds of me getting back on a bike again.

[@alienlatino2945]

@@rosshorton9182 Now I'm having my doubts. These things can flip over like a kyte in mid-air and if it does you have to be a real expert to control the apparatus and survive the deadly crash.

[@skyclimberfan4744]

As a retired hang glider pilot you are making me so envious. The paramotor has the advantage of quick setup and go, the hang glider is fantastic but the setup needs time and a runway of sorts. In the end for me there is nothing like a solid structure over me. If you can manage the cost, having both would be the perfect world. Thanks.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I always looked up the hang glider guys, just zooming up and down the ridges, while I was gale hanging in my paraglider. This a bit of a dream for me. I saved a lot so having both is a gift.

[@seattleflyboard3807]

Hence my idea for a paraglider with inflatable segments that keep it from losing shape in turbulence....like a kiteboarding wing.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@seattleflyboard3807 this has been looked and tried and actually made the wings not recover very well.

[@mark675]

Id choose the peabee almost every time, but I still love my paramotor and they are alot easier to just setup and fly from smaller fields being foot launched, you've got the right idea having both! 😂

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Lots of saving but yes I feel very lucky.

[@kevchilton908]

A very informative and well put together video for a SEP pilot who hasn't a clue about parameter or ultraight flying. But I do now! Thank you Giles 👌👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Kevin, thank you. I did get a lot of, I've no idea what paramotoring is, from GA pilots. I'm glad it helped. Its even funnier when I've called up ATC units and the radio goes quiet for 10 seconds...I'm sure they are nudging the controller next to them, "whats a paramotor".

[@AndreBandarra1]

Interesting hearing your thoughts on both, Cheers Giles!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Yay, Andre is here. Don't worry I'm still following your antics.

[@brianballard1729]

Lovely and congratulations on an effective demo and your advice...

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Glad it was helpful!

[@raian1323]

One day im gona buy one of these and fly over these beautiful mountain in my homeland

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Follow your dreams and you'll make it happen.

[@walter.bellini]

Great video thank you for taking us for a nice air ride!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Flying is the best. They never said I had to grow up. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@alwatt9367]

This again was excellent enjoyed every minute thank you

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks Al, glad you enjoyed it.

[@Toys4Life]

Loved the video sir! Thank you for sharing your well articulated thoughts!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

It's been a while since this video came out and thank you for your kind words.

[@CactusJackSlade]

From a youtube lurker who flew hang gliders 35 years ago this was very informative and fun to watch - thank you 🙂

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi CactusJackSlade, I'm assuming it's Jack, but welcome to the comments, everyone is welcome here. I'm glad you found it informative, I do try. Lots has happened since that video. Additionally, as I mostly fly flexwing aircraft no, I wished I'd tried hang gliding, I follow a few HG channels as it just looks amazing.

[@comeflywithlee433]

An interesting video on a form of aviation that I know very little about. Thanks.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Lee, that's quite a common response. Paramotors share the skies with everyone and launch from small undefined locations. The Sub70 Flexwings have quite literally taken over my flying. The joy of Sub70 is no licence required.

[@bravobravoh1344]

Beautiful scenery, it seems like you can experience it a lot better with one of those.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

It's a wonderful area to fly and the unrestricted view on both aircraft makes it even better.

[@Paramoteurpilot]

Great landing Giles, brilliant footage with the shadow.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you. I did like that landing shadow, which is why I reused it at the end. more fun and games to come.

[@jasonsmith6508]

Excellent video thank you 👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Jason, glad it was helpful.

[@shanesplanetshane3795]

Overall cost and fitting the plane in the back seat of a small honda civic, made my choice clear. Thanks for the vid, both look like a blast!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Shane, they are definitely both a blast. I ended up selling my Paramotor😧.

[@AZC1949]

Good vlog, Giles. Horses for courses is an accurate analogy.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Absolutely

[@vincesnetterton5868]

both are great. one is much safer

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

The thing to remember is that Aviation is a risky pastime. If you come in with the perception that its all safe and roses, you will get caught out. Flying only in butter smooth air, both are safe. I have had collapses on the PPG side but they are all manageable and presented no risks. It all depends what you want form the sport/ hobby.

[@richvincent6282]

Great comparison and actually surprised that the paramotor would be your choice in rougher conditions. That's helped concrete more confidence in my paramotor, cheers :)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Rich, any more videos coming out?

[@richvincent6282]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 got a short one coming soon :)

[@seattleflyboard3807]

A paramotor in rough conditions is very dangerous unless you are an expert. Those lines go slack in turbulence easily and can snag on the cage.

[@GregAnthonyHarris]

Super job mate! Looks like you have the best of both worlds! : D

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I feel so luck.

[@Adventure_Bum]

Thanks for that! Great to have to comparison for someone like me trying to choose which way to go.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Glad it was helpful! Which one do you think you'll go for?

[@Adventure_Bum]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 the paramotor, due to it's view, short takeoff/landing and portability. I suspected the microlights had significantly greater speed, range, and robustness in bad weather, but seems that my suspicions were exaggerated. For someone seeking adveture in remote locations it seemsthe PPG would be better.

[@miguelantonio7135]

@@Adventure_Bum Flex wings benefits from evolution in last year's. Now's days are very fast wings in market, dudek warp for example, with trims out and speed bar go over 50 mph.

[@manjx15]

Great video and looking forward to watching the others now 😉

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks Manjx, I know they are a bit geeky, but it's all about having fun.

[@brentsmith5647]

Brilliant video thank you 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks again Brent.

[@clsmith1126]

Excellent video Sir. Beautiful scenery. Clear audio. Great presentation. 👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Glad you enjoyed it, welcome to the channel. There are a few other flying videos in my content area if you are interested.

[@GreaseMonkeyAuto]

I think the thing that stands out the most, is the beauty of it all. Plus I love the sound of a happy 2stroke

[@GreaseMonkeyAuto]

You're totally living my dream dude. I'm glad you feel lucky.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Daniel, thank you for your kind words. It's been a long time coming and a lot of hard work but I'm making the most of every day.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Can beat a happy 2 stroke engine.

[@edilbertosantana8307]

Love to see again...n again.Beauty.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello, not sure what you want to see again?

[@soulstorm8806]

Excellent way to scope out an area if you are attempting to learn a new area for understanding roads etc.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Soul Storm, what is an excellent way to scope things out? I'm not sure what you mean.

[@simonhamilton4002]

Great video Giles, one of your best👌

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Cheers Si, any more thoughts on your next wing?

[@shaneross7428]

I really enjoyed that thank you

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Shane, I'm glad you enjoyed it, it was a special trip for me as well.

[@golds335]

amazing i love this .

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@golds335]

loved it thank you.Something i would love to do ,i fly drones that's as far up as i go.

[@i_fuk_religion]

I think hang glider are better. In paragliding, you need just the right amount of wind flow. Not too much, not too less. But electric hang glider you can launch from anywhere, any day. Even a beach. Electric hang gliders are the best.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Ankit, that sounds quite interesting. I can't fly a hang glider but are there any electric ones in production?

[@FreshTillDeath56]

As someone who was locked in on paramotoring since day 1, this is a nice change of view. That PB looks like a nifty little craft. I can't wait to be a PPG pilot myself ! :)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I flew paramotors and paragliders for over a decade, the PeaBee ticks so many boxes for me. I just didn't have the time for both so one had to go, it was very sad.

[@FreshTillDeath56]

Good call. I live above the Washington DC permanent flight restriction in the less congested area, so PPG is the logical choice for me. I've already found an instructor and friends!

[@101m4n]

Just started my training up at flyschool uk. Been eyeing this sport up for years, I look forward to getting in the air! (when the damn weather improves)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

FlySchool or Skyschool? Flying is so addictive, I keep coming back for more.

[@101m4n]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Oh, skyschool of course. I've miss-typed that more than a few times now. I managed to get in an afternoon of ground handling last Friday in before the weather went bad. As/Ds came naturally, so did forward handling, but my reverse needs work. I'll get there eventually! How long have you been flying?

[@justharryjohnson7250]

Looks like this is a question alot of people wanted an answer too great view count. And very informative.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Cheers Harry, I hope you are well.

[@edilbertosantana8307]

Great VIDEO.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you. it was just in response to a question I kept getting asked by my flying friends.

[@jflow5601]

Thanks. Very informative video.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you. It's a year round now, so I feel an update is required.

[@jflow5601]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 You Brits are usually quite thorough.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I do try J Flow 😁

[@BenAtkinsonVideos]

Yes Giles!! Love this. And the videos done amazingly - rightly so. Interesting insight 👍👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

The strip I fly from is only 67 miles from Kemble airfield. If only i had a little bit more range, I'd fly in.

[@BenAtkinsonVideos]

Golf Foxtrot 22 oooh...how long is the runway?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@BenAtkinsonVideos just under 400 max but 300 usable. It's not an official sit (28day rule) but he flies a C42 from there. It would certainly test your precision approach as its not flat and on a hill, you'll probably notice that from my videos.

[@brentsmith5647]

Brilliant video thank u 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Brent, thank you and I'm glad you enjoyed it. I think you posted your comment twice, was that deliberate?

[@weazlepeerman5467]

You are crazy dude!Great vid!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Weazle, I've not been called Crazy before, I'm quite a quiet person. Thank for the comment.

[@DougBowman6]

Thanks for the comparison. All of your PeaBee vids have me thinking about an UL with wheels now. LOL

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I think since I made this, I have favoured the trike style now.

[@PaulFrancis-SkyRascal]

Nice vid Giles, looking forward to some PeaBee camping 🏕

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Probably paramotor camping first.

[@ukjjs1]

Great video, this is something I'm considering

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

HI Jason, which one, flexwing or the paramotor?

[@ukjjs1]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 sorry, paramotor

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@ukjjs1 I really enjoyed my paramotoring but just didn't have the time to do both.

[@Big_Money_Salvia]

I've been interested in flight since I was a kid, particularly fascinated with paramotors and powered hang gliders/ultralights so I've gotta say, mad jelly dawg, mad jelly. That countryside looks absolutely stunning from above.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Nunya, welcome to the channel. The dream of flight is there for us all and your comment was so true for me. I've always dreamed of flying and spent most of my life focused towards achieving it. I hope you like the channel as there is probably lots of videos that you'd enjoy.

[@notimeliketoday9414]

This looks like fun 👍🤙

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi No Time like today, it certainly is and the PeaBee has certainly given me a new direction in my flying. Not pushing my videos but you'll soon see the amazing journey it's has taken me.

[@lucianosantucci108]

Well presented - cheers 🍻

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Luciano, thank you. There have been quite a few developments on the channel since this video was made last year.

[@mjotd8670]

Just seen your channel, and was impressed with both content and quality - hence, you have another subscriber!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello MJOTD, thank you. You must recognise some of the locations 😉. I'm just a part time vlogger with a full time day job, and enjoy sharing my passion for flying and all things aviation.

[@mjotd8670]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Thank you for the quick, reply, indeed, I think we are both from the same region of the Uk, and I too, also have a keen interest in aviation, recently started watching Tucker Gott's videos, which now has me interested in paramotoring.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I have some good paramotor content, which should be of interest. I don't paramotor as much atm.

[@mjotd8670]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Yes, indeed, I am currently working my way through them - many thanks

[@DanielJonesParamotor]

You know what Giles, the more I watch your PeaBee videos the more I want one!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I don't think the bank balance would like it, but they are so much fun.

[@chrsfrwll]

Daniel, my problem too

[@garrykennedy5484]

The major thing is,, you don't want to have to transport, set up, break down, store an ultralight. It's really only worth it if you have a property that you can store it assembled in a hanger and launch and land there. With a Paramotor, you can just about launch from anywhere, but the weather conditions dictate the flying days and hours, before and after thermal activity mainly, and there's even much more about a fixed wing vs a rag wing when it comes to the inevitable weird winds that can collapse a rag wing even if you make the best of decisions. I fly Hang Gliders for this reason. I can't have a wing collapse, and I can fly in much more diverse wind/weather conditions safely. However, it's more of a task to store, set up, break down, transport etc. But I WILL live to fly again. The chances of me needing to deploy my reserve chute are next to zero compared what a parawing. Bla bla bla,,,,,,,,, It's up to you,,, just do some real soul searching research as my brother and I did before making up you mind.

[@fredread9216]

Garry Kennedy Thanks for the thoughts Gary. So do you think the the fixed wing is more airworthy? No collapse issues. Rotor problems not as critical? This is my main question that this video, although very helpful, didn’t really answer. Can you? Thanks!

[@d911tru4]

Great video. I agree. My personal experience: In a trike had 2 near crashes due to sudden wind coming up and no where to land. Had one crash, trike was a writeoff, some scatches lucky nothing serious. Was due to turbulence near the ground, lifting and falling the trike unexpectedly. So wind made me change my mind - I prefer a para now. Anything that can handle some wind. I have also seen some army guys doing loops and stunts in very strong winds with parachutes.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi D911, thank you for your story and I hope you are ok. I'm glad you agree as some seem to have misinterpreted the intent of my video. Keep flying safe.

[@Michael112233able]

Great video, I enjoyed it! I have nearly 30 years of flying virtually everything and my conclusion is that I have enjoyed them all for very different reasons and ultimately there is no one answer for everyone as people’s flight situations are all very different. For me, the paramotor wins out over my trike flying simply because of the simplicity of set up and the ability to transport so easily in my car. But if I lived on a ranch or had access to a very cheap hanger nearby I would go for the quicksilver ultralight as this is the least restrictive in terms of flying safely in a wide verity of conditions. Buuuuut, still nothing like driving to the beach on a light wind day and motoring down the coast. Like you, I have had free flight HG and FF Paragliders on comparison (bywingwal) and finally the paraglider won out due to ease of use and transportability even though the HG was a superior machine as far as performance. I have also had HG trikes at the same time as Paramotors and the paramotor wins out, again, for its transportability, easy storage, simplicity and for its unmatched flight views! The paramotor is not the perfect flight solution but it is awfully sweet when the conditions are right and you have the time to wait for it to be right (parawaiting). One thing is for sure is that you should DEFINITELY FLY SOMETHING! Personally, I don’t regret a dime spent on flight over the years, theirs simply nothing like being in the air no mater what is holding you up.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Wow, thank you for taking the time to write that reply. I COMPLETELY AGREE. I just love being in the air, I'm like a kid in a sweet shop when I have flown. I've sold and traded so many things over the decades to allow my flying to keep going. Like you I wish I had the big wide open space to just keep it rigged and can walk out and just go flying.

[@alexrands2580]

Parawaiting 😂😂😂

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@alexrands2580 spent many an afternoon just waiting for the conditions to be right to fly.

[@seattleflyboard3807]

yes...its the portability that makes Paramotors so attractive. Closest I've seen is the Doodlebug harness for hang gliders. I wish they could come up with something a little more portable

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

The problem is getting a Ridge structure and portability is not always easy. I do like my Peabee as it can be rigged in 20 minutes or from a trailer and the wing in the bag, in under 50 minutes. That's pretty fast in my book.

[@ForFunFlyer]

Now, that's a short T/O! 🤙🏻 Nice video! 👍🏻

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you, I do need to catch up on your videos as well. Thank

[@jcz232321]

Liked & Subscribed! Thank you for this video content.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Tim, I hope to try and keep the content coming. I can't wait to fly again.

[@matt281075]

Hey I found this really interesting and it must be exciting thrilling to feel the freedom nice video👌👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Matthew, I've been flying for a long time now and paramotors and microlights like the PeaBee have given me so much enjoyment. I see you have found my latest video release as well. 😁.

[@ChuckyWright]

solid comparison, maybe I need to try the other form of flying fun!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Chucky, you have a lot more flex in your FAR103 to fly slightly heavier machines. Lots of things have changed for me since making tgat video. Stay safe.

[@clearprop]

Great and unusual video, Giles. I have to say your approach on the paramotor was interesting to watch; that application of power to prevent the descent during the turn to final, then a more sustained power burst once on final to bring the aim point back on track. All done knowing you had an undershoot field in the event of an engine failure. The approach from that direction reminds me of the approach to Talgarth (Black Mountains Gliding Club) where if you're not careful you'll end up looking uphill on approach. Not good when you don't have power...😉

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks Dan. The power on the approach was just to get me back on the approach path I needed, its quite an uphill slope and I wanted to be clear of the fence. The secret is to allow height to let the motor(You) and the wing to settle into the glide once the power comes off. If you do it too low, you swing into the ground as you don't have enough brake to overcome the swing. Better to be high and overshoot than low and plough the dirt.

[@clearprop]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 That makes sense. Similar idea (yet not the same) as that last 50ft or so in a glider - leave the airbrakes where they are so that you are flying only with the stick. Essentially just settle everything with enough height to allow proper flare control.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@clearprop I remember my K13 days. I loved gliding.

[@Potatoroomr]

This man is a Guru

[@michaelantonio1367]

Thumbs up! Fly safe my friend.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Michael, many thanks,. Many happy and safe flights since this video was made.

[@Ravidow]

Hi there! I love your KZbin channel!! How costly is the trike with wheels that you fly. I want to buy one ASAP!!! THANK YOU FOR SHARING AND MAKING MY DAYS!!!!!!!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

The PeaBee is about £11k ready to go. When you think a paramotor is around 6.5k and wing is 4k, they are actually not that expensive for what you get. I hope that helps.

[@andrewlarking7492]

Great video, I’m keen to try Paramotoring and exploring on KZbin. That landing was smooth.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Andrew, thanks for having a look at my channel. It was a lovely day so the landing was not too difficult. I hope you find more useful videos on my content list.

[@LewisHolford]

I cannot wait to learn!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Which one, that's the question 😁?

[@LewisHolford]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Paramotor for sure! Still trying to find out the rules and regulations about it. I lives in such a good spot for it it seems too!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@LewisHolford Flying is flying and once you have been up, you will always want to go back.

[@phmiii]

Thank you for your insight. I am a newbie and I do not know where to start.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

The first rule is don't buy ANYTHING until you have completed any form of training. Any good school will have kit for you to use and learn on.

[@phmiii]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Thank you, I will do that!

[@LeoFPV]

What an amazing area you're flying in! Great video :)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Cheers Leo, I hope the helmet and camera mount is working now.

[@LeoFPV]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Working perfectly! Cannot wait to get it in the air :)

[@clippedwing-bensmith1614]

Greased that landing!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Yes, I was quite chuffed.

[@RonBesse]

I couldn't agree more. I started with Experimental class biplane, then Ultralight Fokker EIII, then flexwing, and now PPG. All have advantages and disadvantages, but all are fun. What's next? Cluster balloons?🤔 Most Sincerely, Ron.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you. I'm glad you agree. I'll leave the cluster balloons to those with more courage than me.

[@stone8597]

Great video...very objective...thanks. Also, on the Pee Bee, there are people that land in crosswind using various techniques...just wondering what those might be? I know with the single surface wing it is more susceptible turbulence...but maybe holding the bar in and landing faster. Ben Ashman might give you a pointer or two. I've ordered a Aeros ANT and now fly a PPG Trike (so no foot launch), and plan to keep both. I'm just wondering about the difference in these two. The PPG trike can take more space to take off then a foot launch....but it will be nice to have both. Everything is a trade-off and nothing more so than in the world of aviation. Thanks again.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Pretty much every landing I do on the farm strip is crosswind. Ben and my instructor have both shown or explained the technique which is what I'm using. The limiting factor is weight for the wind speed. The new trim point has certainly helped.

[@edilbertosantana8307]

Nice one.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thank you.

[@andrewcurtis4568]

I envy the hell out of this dude, I would LOVE to try this if I could afford it.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Andrew, it's been a long time coming for me but I've always wanted to fly. I've saved and sold a lot of things to buy the machines and it has been so worth it. Which route would you go down? Paramotor or Ultralight?

[@WiltshireMan]

That was a very interesting video Giles, nice comparisons. I knew you would summarize that way, they both have their pro's and cons. I reckon for camping though the Peabee is better cos you won't have to launch with all the extra weight, but wait a moment, on the paramotor I can land almost anywhere...........:)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Exactly. Can't wait to go Paracamping Sandy.

[@chrsfrwll]

Golf Foxtrot 22 like that idea

[@WiltshireMan]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 I'm flying tonight from Challow Giles. I've got a plan for a fly camp, perhaps Bexxy and Tony H can join us. We can fly from Challow and land out at my permission 15 miles away. (we'll take the scenic route and can make it an hour or longer flight) Do a camp at the permission and fly back to Challow in the morning. Weather permitting of course.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@WiltshireMan that sounds like a plan. Don't forget Paranoob.

[@WiltshireMan]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Yes Paranoob of course, we can send Paul up first to test the air:)

[@ikay2102]

I fly paramotor and Autogyro MTO, I could say the same sir, it's great to fly both

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello there, I'm glad you can relate.

[@KevinArmstrong4154]

Excellent. Not my style of flight but enjoyed the illustration of both. If you have a microlight licence then different categories beckon; either a two seater with all the bureacracy and permit/check flight hassles, but you can take mates up for a spin, or a sub-300 kilo SSDR. To cater for the latter there's precious little around unless you buy a cheap two eater and blank the back seat off, usually an elderly two stroke.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Kevin, I have neither and the comparison is between the 2 because I kept getting asked which one. I have a lapsed Group A licence but I still actually prefer this deregulated flying. Loved your recent Flying plank video.

[@nicholasjones767]

Like ur video! Keep up the good work

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks, will do!

[@KennethGillen]

Thanks for your awesome videos, Giles. As someone trying to decide on going down the PPG or Flylight Adam route - I'm really interested in what kit you have attached - a 'shopping list' of sorts, to help understand what I'd need for the Adam v.s. the PPG. Your setup looks interesting and well dialled - do you have a 'kit list' somewhere that would be easy to copy/paste? Or if you're looking for a subject for another great video.. ? :D

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello Kenneth, I have covered this in another video "50 Hour service", but I have also put all the equipment I use in the video description, if that helps.

[@DansEscapades]

Loved it mate!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Glad you enjoyed it. I can't believe how many people have seen this video.

[@DansEscapades]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 crazy mate, people are loving it

[@wkboggs5]

Found you on Short Field link. Nice video. PPC pilot in Ky, US.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Wkboggs5, thanks for joining me over on my channel. I know it's a different flavour but as a PPC pilot I'm sure you will appreciate the lighter w d of flying.

[@geratditomarme2795]

Qué bello ,,,me gustaría estar allí

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Espero que tenham gostado do vídeo

[@SkiesTheLimit]

Wish I had the garage space for a Peabee. Definitely looks good fun, especially for days when I don't have the energy to run into the air 😁

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I had that last night. Nil wind and just put my foot down and look off, then just landed back and taxied in. Thanks for watching.

[@SkiesTheLimit]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 no problem, great video matey, hey something a little off subject, I'm having a little trouble with wind noise on the videos coming into the PM100 microphone, I've been told you're the man to speak to regarding a upgraded mic muff, I've dropped you a pm on Facebook, if you have time would you mind sharing a little wisdom? many thanks brother!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@SkiesTheLimit I'll have a look for you message, when did you send it?

[@SkiesTheLimit]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 ah will have been a while ago buddy, be in the message requests. Look for Kyle Davies 👍😁, cheers

[@BariFPV]

I fly paragliders and now I'm working towards getting Hang 2 rating for Hang Gliding :) as you said both crafts are different, in my novice opinion the pitch authority of a hang glider compared to a paraglider is what I like about hang gliding the most so far. Much to learn :)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I hope your Hang glider training goes well.

[@BariFPV]

Hey thanks, so far so good. Yesterday I did my third lesson and went up to 75 feet on tow :)

[@donzioldbuddy]

I fly both and appreciate the hang glider’s stability in rough air

[@standardaussie]

Thought about paragliding for a while, but after thinking about it I realised the only exposure to the sport i ever have had was a dude dropping out the sky just out of town here while I was out the lakes getting in some 4x4 fun. Sucks when something is marred by negativity.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Standard Aussie, Avaition has its risks but once you have flown and gain knowledge you can mitigate a significant number of the risks but knowing about weather, advanced wing control etc. I hope you get to experience some form of aviation as its a wonderful way to experience life.

[@StevenShulman]

This was great to watch! Thanks! I also fly trike and would love to learn paramotoring. Im just concerned if wind condition picks up while paramotoring? In a trike you could still land safely, is it possible in paramotor to land safe when wind picks up?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Air Born, yes, its still safe but when you say wind pick up I'm talking max 20 mph ( I have landed in gusting 25 but that was in exceptional circumstances- I just crossed the entire UK from Wales to Beccles) Paramotoring is about having fun, and not pushing the the highside. Neither sub 70 or Paramotoring are high wind activities, or you just wouldn't get anywhere. I hope that helps.

[@seattleflyboard3807]

this is why I sold my paramotor...wind conditions always pick up while flying and often makes landings unsafe.....do not minimize this issue. This is not a problem for experts....and the experts are often giving bad advice based on their own experience.

[@seattleflyboard3807]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Even a sudden 15mph gust in calm conditions can collapse chute on landing if trees nearby....I learned this the hard way. The wind picking up while flying is the number one danger I experienced in the sport. In my hang glider...I could handle changing conditions. In my paramotor...I was always finding myself in danger despite great care.

[@sebakimoji4595]

nice One. i am interested on this

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Which side are you interested in?

[@JimsRobot]

The perfect video as I start my journey. Is one significantly safer than the other in mild conditions?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Heading West, aviation is inherently dangerous, but with the correct training and education you learn to understand when to and when not to fly. To answer your question for mild conditions, I would feel just as safe in both. Its only in the rougher conditions that I would feel safer in the Flexwing (PeaBee). I hope that helps.

[@crosisofborg5524]

I hate heights and would never get on one of these things yet I find myself binge watching paramotor videos

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I'm the same, I'm not very good at heights, but I managed to get to over 4 miles up. It's a fantastic way to relax and just be in my own space.

[@ironeagletrike]

Great video, enjoyed watching it and made me feel good to know I kind of a have a hybrid of what you are comparing in that I fly a paramotor trike. My biggest downside is portability, I keep it at an airport 65 miles away and can't easily move it other than with my cargo trailer. Biggest upside is I can fly without having to jump through the hoops of an FAA medical here in the US. I would love to fly anything that flies, would love to try out the PeaBee (or similar aircraft) sometime.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Iron Eagle Trike, welcome to the channel. I kind of know where you are coming from. I did have a paratrikes for my old Bailey 4 stroke but I jsut found it more difficult than just foot launching. The PeaBee has really become my passion and has ultimately allowed me to start a new career (later content if you are interested). Thanks for your comment.

[@bohdan392]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Hey Giles, L I'm loving your videos!! I fly paragliders but mainly a wheel base paramotor. I started off foot launching but due to an old motorcycle back injury I was forced to go to a ppg trike. I keep it in the back of a van and just need to fit the shroud/hoop to set up when I go flying. I'm about to resume WSM trike training as I have an Aeros Ant nano with Discus 15T wing I've been wanting to learn to fly, (Got a bargain I couldn't refuse :). I know paramotoring is in many ways more practical/portable but in stronger winds or with wrong direction the trike can become a handful! (unlike foot launching). I feel the nano will lend itself better to windy or crosswind days, plus for some reason I think I will feel more secure under the delta wing in crappy air, (even though I've been flying pg/ppg since '96), and contrary to your comments in this video. I also feel that the delta wings are more like an actual aircraft than paraglider wings. I think I need something new/different from pg/ppg as the passion (obsession) I used to have for ppg has been waning of recent times, almost to the degree of feeling like an inconvenience or an obligation :-/ The area I predominantly fly is absolutely beautiful, (Great Ocean Road region Victoria, Australia) so it's not the view. Maybe it's a case of 'been there-done that'. I have been told the new Adam 13tds wing is in many (not every) ways superior to the Discus 15T so hope to try it once I'm licensed/solo but I also understand that wing technology is continually improving and one doesn't need to have the latest 'whizz-Bang' gear to enjoy the hobby/sport, although it can often be safer and MORE enjoyable on more current gear. Apologies for the long post. Keep up the great work!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi @bohdan, I've just found your comment, YT doesn't always show me comments if they are attached to others comments. Thank you for your comment and I have shifted my views since making this. I still think both are fun ways to fly but the Flexwing ( Delta wing) is the safer option and I would definitely fly the flex in must stronger and rougher conditions than I would in a paramotor. The Adam wing is good but I can't compare it to the DISCUS as I haven't flown it. If you've seen my ore recent content you'll see how much I enjoy flying the ADAM, but flexwing flying does make me smile. Hope to see you in the comments section in the future and safe flying until next time.

[@peter6782]

has it ever been considered to try and fit a dampener to the front wheel to help with landings it would help stop the front wheel from snatching same principle to the steering on a motor cycle ?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I do know what you mean by the damper, but not had the need or the weight penalty. The geometry is pretty good and I've not had it snatched round at all. If it can override my foot pressure, the wheel would be the issue. Thanks for watching.

[@old8235]

I had an original paraplane. A little of both. Thnx.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Is a paraplane a ram Air parachute on a trike frame?

[@Georgewrigley]

They both like great fun, subscribed for more fun! :)

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Thanks for the sub!. I hope more fun soon but the weather isn't being very nice at the moment.

[@nur5ey1]

3 years ago already?? Doesn't seem possible Giles.. Look at the channel now!! 😁👍🏼

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I know, it's been a bit mental. So much has happened.

[@mohammadali3]

I'm from bangladesh, bagerhat city .... wow amazing 😍😍💙

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I'm glad you enjoyed it

[@thermaljumper]

Another good one Giles!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Is this Jamie?

[@thermaljumper]

Golf Foxtrot 22 yes it is!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Have you had any more lessons?

[@thermaljumper]

Golf Foxtrot 22 booked in Sunday weather permitting. Mostly Sunday’s then quite a few over half term all being well

[@MadScientist267]

Pretty sweet. Considered both... Looking more into the PPG direction now. Useful video.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hello there, I'm glad it was helpful. I wasn't sure how many people would actually watch it, seems quite a few have.

[@flybe146]

Giles this was a wonderful video and very thought-provoking. I come to Aviation from flying Piper's and Cessnas and Boeing 757's so big strong fixed wing stuff but there are two things you didn't mention which I am very interested in are your opinions on, the fact that paramotors can now have wheels put on them and be sort of turned into "nano trikes" without having to have a license - so sub 70 effectively so what do you think about them? Also don't you think that the fact that the wing on a paramotor can collapse and cause you to get dead or very seriously injured but a PeaBee can't make the PeaBee simply much safer?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I have had collapses on a paramotor, they are straight forward to deal with so far from getting dead, collapses don't bother me. SIV ( advanced pilotage course give you confidence to deal with them. In a decade of freeflying I have had 4 collapses, two big ones and a few minor tickles. The bit that worries me is the rolling a flexwing trike on the ground, that's the bit that worried me and in this video the wheel came off the ground, I started to roll and had to use my feet to assist, sub 70 just doesn not have the weight of a 300/450kgs microlight There is less to bend on a paramotor, more to bend on a hang glider wing. The origin of the sub 70 exemption actually stemmed from allowing paramotors to take off from wheels, but by extension the self propelled hang gliders were included also. I've tired flying paratrikes but they are so much harder to get right than foot launched and can't take a crosswind.

[@flybe146]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Cheers Giles all that supprises me but thank you!

[@marguskiis7711]

Delta is times more dangerous

[@seattleflyboard3807]

objective comparison to anyone thinking of which sport is best for them. I've done both extensively. Paragliding is sketchy in any kind of wind unless you have expert skills....ie you kite and fly regularly and have the muscle memory to instantly sort out a misbehaving paraglider. I've never been able to develop enough skill to fly in anything but mellow conditions....and that makes it unsafe as there were many many times I took off in calm conditions but had things pickup before landing. And anytime you go cross country, weather conditions change....which makes cross country in a paramotor. Ultralights are more capable of actually going places. They can handle more wind...so way more flying opportunities. ultralights are faster ....often 200-300% faster so you can go places. Once I took off in my paramotor trike and went 5 miles from the airport. The wind picked up and I barely made it back.....my ground speed on the way back was less than 3mph....if the wind picked up any more I would have been going backwards. Ultralights can have engines such as the Rotax 503....which is going to be massively more reliable than ANY paramotor toy tiny 2 stroke that most have. The Rotax 503 is a work of art.....a Pollini or Thor 2 stroke is a joke by way of comparison. So the ultralight is safer, faster, stronger, more reliable, more versatile. I'd say they are equally fun. The main advantage of the paramotor is that they are super compact and portable. And that is the huge advantage. If it was not for that...an ultralight is far superior. I

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I think you missed the point of my video. I kept getting asked which one do 'I' prefer. I appreciate your lengthy reply though, as that would give someone an external perspective. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@ZeRo8625]

What do you think about wheeled (trike or quad) paramotors? I assume one wouldn't wind for the take off run with these.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I've flown a Paramotor trike before, but they are so fickle and need light conditions, if it had to have wheels, I may as well go for the flexwing trike. If its windier then foot launched paramotors are just easy to launch, but I suppose I still have working knees. Its all down to what you prefer. Anything that gets you in the air must be a good thing.

[@alexhatfield2987]

And I loved your post. I want to finish work and do this too, when conditions allow. I'm a novice. Which one would you recommend to start off in if cost was not a factor?

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Its down what access to airfields or flying sites and what training you can easily get to. These for me were overriding factors for me.

[@coryturner9140]

I’d say the Paramotor because it’s easy to store, you can transport it in a trunk of a car and fly almost anywhere.

[@Chris-Fennimore]

Niles, thanks for the comparison. BTW... would you happen to know if there is a PPG instructor at RAF Finmere? I see there is a Hang Gliding school there, but I am not sure about PPG. I am wondering, since my son is stationed at RAF Crouton, maybe he could take his PPG lessons over there. Thanks!

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I think that was a mistype of my name.. Haha. The nearest PPG instructor near to you will be CM Paramotors. Give them a shout and easy to find online. Outside of that have a look on the BHPA website and it will give you a list of school. I hope that helps.

[@Chris-Fennimore]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 Thanks for the info, Giles. Sorry, yes. Haha. Brain is still foggy this morning.

[@daleyoung87]

At some point, you want to go somewhere. Not just hang out in the air. I'd go with the trike, but I fly gyros.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Yes, there is that balance and I have covered some serious distances in paramotors but it does take a long time. The only limiting factor on the Sub70 trike is fuel, I can actually fly further on the Paramotor as they stand but the PeaBee gets me there faster, and in more comfort. There has been lots of developments since I made this video and I now have my pilots licence which allows me to carry more fuel on the PeaBee. I've never been in a an Autogyro but they do look amazing and comply different to anything I've flown before.

[@flyskiride]

Enjoyed that cheers

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Glad it was enjoyable. Just looked at some of your videos. Did you learn with Airways ( Andy Snell) at Darley Moor airfield, it looks very familiar?

[@flyskiride]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 yes I did my training with airways and some with Andy and some with the other instructors there, very good school and great people.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@flyskiride I haven't flown there for a few years now. I used to like flying round Alton Towers or North to the Lady Bower Dam, all on my paramotor.

[@flyskiride]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 yea flown over alton towers and over to Carsington water, haven't been over to ladybower though might have to when the wind is right.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@flyskiride let me know when you have flown there, I only got to 3 km from the Dam, I chickened out and turned for DM as I didn't want to run out of fuel.

[@dawidstrauss527]

Once you are in the air, there is less which can go wrong with a hang glider than with a paraglider.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Hi Dawid, I've never flown a hang glider, so I can't compare. Are you referring to the collapse resistance aspect?