The new Gradient Aspen 5
The gradient Aspen 5 sets new standards in the development of high end intermediate paragliders. (Price £2999.00) You can see the new curves of the Gradient Aspen 5 with its higher aspect ratio, but you will probably not see that Gradient uses a brand new airfoil section in Aspen 5. This new airfoil has important effects on the character and performance of the glider. The internal structure incorporates our well-proven drag reducing DD system with subtle modifications to the suspension system. So just like the Aspen 4, the Aspen 5 has remarkably low line consumption. The leading edge of the Gradient Aspen 5 is constructed in Gradient’s exclusive double-coated Everlast-Skytex, to ensure very long-term stability and durability of this important part of the airfoil.
Performance
One flight is better than 1000 words: Higher maximum speed, better glide ratio and better climbing (especially in weak conditions). Gradient has paid particular attention to the feedback the Aspen 5 gives to the pilot, and we have balanced this feedback so that the pilot will receive only precise information from the glider. Due to this focus on feedback, Aspen 5 is very intuitive to centre in thermals. The higher maximum speed and improved glide ratio is accompanied by handles on the C riser to help active piloting while using the speed bar.
Certification
Aspen 5 is EN-C certified. There are three certified sizes – 24, 26 and 28. Weight range is from 77 to 118 kg.
The predictable flying characteristics and precise feedback of the Gradient Aspen 5 provides the basis for good active piloting, an essential contribution to safety in performance paragliding. The combination of different lines and materials is coordinated with the wingload to take account of real flight situations. The tiniest details are fine tuned: lines with progressive diameters give the finishing touch to the whole glider. Thin and minimalist competition-style risers are used as a matter of course.
The Gradient Aspen 5 is delivered with a new Gradient rucksack. Packed with features even the rucksack is newly designed, with a special carrying system unique to Gradient. To complement it, Gradient recommends the Gradient Concertina bag for maximum care and durability of the wing.
Technical Data
|
Aspen 5
|
|
24
|
26
|
28
|
|
Flat Area
|
[m2]
|
23.30
|
25,50
|
27.74
|
|
Projected area
|
[m2]
|
19.64
|
21,49
|
23.38
|
|
Span
|
[m]
|
12.07
|
12,63
|
13.17
|
|
Projected span
|
[m]
|
9.44
|
9.88
|
10.30
|
|
Aspect ratio
|
|
6.25
|
6.25
|
6.25
|
|
Projected aspect ratio
|
|
4.54
|
4.54
|
4,54
|
|
Max. chord
|
[m]
|
2.36
|
2.47
|
2.58
|
|
Min. chord
|
[m]
|
0,79
|
0.82
|
0.86
|
|
Number of cells
|
|
64
|
64
|
64
|
|
Line consumption
|
[m]
|
222.34
|
232.6
|
242,6
|
|
Weight of the glider
|
[kg]
|
4.8
|
5.1
|
5.4
|
|
Take-off weight range
|
[kg]
|
77-90
|
85-103
|
98-118
|
|
Optimal take-off weight
|
[kg]
|
80-86
|
92-100
|
105-115
|
|
Certification EN
|
|
C
|
C
|
C
|
