What is Paramotor Torque?
Paramotor torque is a force that affects pilots of powered paragliders, also known as paramotors. This force is created by the propeller of the paramotor, which generates lift for the paraglider. When the propeller is turning, it creates a rotational force that can cause the paramotor to turn in the opposite direction. This is known as torque steer, and it can make flying a paramotor challenging for some pilots.
To compensate for torque steer, pilots must use a variety of techniques. One of the most common techniques is to use weight shift to counteract the force of the torque. This can be done by shifting the pilot’s weight to the opposite side of the paramotor, which will help to keep the paramotor straight.
Another technique that pilots use to compensate for torque is to use the brakes of the paraglider. By applying the brakes, the pilot can change the angle of attack of the paraglider, which can help to reduce the force of the torque.
Pilots can also use the throttle of the paramotor to control the amount of torque that is generated. By increasing or decreasing the throttle, the pilot can adjust the amount of lift that is generated, which can help to reduce the force of the torque.
It’s also important to note that some paramotors are designed with specific features to help reduce torque. For example, some paramotors have a counter-rotating propeller which cancels out the torque effect. Additionally, some paramotors have a clutch system that allows the pilot to disengage the propeller while on the ground, which makes it much easier to handle the paramotor.
Another important factor to consider is the engine mounting offset. The engine offset is the distance between the center of gravity of the paramotor and the center of thrust of the propeller. This offset can affect the amount of torque that is generated, and it is important to understand how it can be used to reduce torque. Some paramotor manufacturers use a specific engine offset to reduce torque and make flying more stable.
It is important to understand that torque can be dangerous when flying a paramotor. If the pilot is not able to compensate for the torque, it can cause the paramotor to spin or turn in the opposite direction. This can be especially dangerous during take-off and landing, when the pilot is at a low altitude and may not have enough time to react. To avoid these dangerous situations, pilots must be aware of the torque and be able to compensate for it.
In conclusion, paramotor torque is an important force that affects pilots of powered paragliders. Pilots must use a variety of techniques to compensate for this force, including weight shift, brake use, throttle control, using specialized paramotors, and understanding engine mounting offset. By understanding and mastering these techniques, pilots can enjoy a safer and more enjoyable flying experience.