What is paratrike?
We want to explain to you hoe paratrike was created. A paratrike is basically a car with three wheels (a trike) that can have one or two seats, depending on whether it is used for individual flights or two-seater flights. This trike is supported by a large paraglider and is propelled by a motor to which a propeller is attached.
How did paramotor start?
The idea to create this type of machines arose at the end of the ’80s from the necessity on the part of the pilots of paragliding to find alternative places for the takeoff. Since the flight without motor requires of great height -the reason why normally the takeoffs are made from hills or summits of mounts-. In this way, the idea of placing an engine with a propeller on the back of the pilot to help him in the manoeuvre of the takeoff arose. This is what is known as “paramotor”. With this invention, it was opened the possibility of being able to make flights almost from any location, regardless of height.
Why it evolved to paratrike?
However, the paramotor presented a serious drawback: the extra weight of an engine in the back, a propeller that rotates at several thousand revolutions per minute and a fuel tank close to the pilot can represent a serious safety problem. The solution came incorporating a trolley with wheels that allow the pilot not to have to carry extra weight and separates potentially dangerous components from the body. From this idea, they began to design the paratrikes.
Which types or paratrike exists?
There are many types of paratrikes on the market and in some countries -such as Germany- specific certifications are required for this type of equipment. For the practice of tandem flights in paratrike, the fundamental idea must be safety, that is why it is important to have the best equipment on the market and follow the manufacturer’s specifications as well as being up-to-date in the revisions of the whole equipment.
How can I enjoy this experience during my stance in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria?
In Sky Rebels, you can experience the wonderful feeling of paratrike flying over Maspalomas, south of Gran Canaria, with the help of our friend Gavioto, which is more than just a paratrike.
