What speed do paramotors fly at ?
At the same speed as paragliders, which is around 20 kph (slowest speed) and 35 to 80 kph (depending on the type of wing used). The slowest take-off speed is around 35-40 kph. This is dependent on the airmass in which you are flying.
Groundspeed is obviously dependent on the current windspeed. Contrary to popular perception, a more powerful paramotor does not fly faster, but will climb out quicker. Whichever engine you use, you will have the same horizontal speed.

What height can a paramotor climb to ?
To the maximum height at which the motor will function, that is to say several thousand metres. A 2-stroke combustion engine gives out less power at higher altitudes - when the motor gives out less power, the thrust from the unit is less, and the climb rate decreases. When the climb rate is nil, with the engine just allowing you to maintain level flight, you have reached your maximum height.
It is worth knowing that a paramotor has already passed over Mont Blanc at 5,100 metres. The recommendation for a pleasant cruise altitude is between 150 and 200 meters, so that you can enjoy the view below.
This is a reasonable altitude to give a good safety margin and allow you to manoeuvre to choose an appropriate landing area.

Is it possible to take off from anywhere ?
Technically, yes; legally, no... it is effectively possible to take off from almost anywhere, as long as conditions are safe, wind is taken into account, and you are not set up in the turbulence area of a mountain, building or alike.
For the utmost safety, you must always fly in good weather conditions. A football pitch size field is an example of a suitable paramotor take-off area. Having said that, it is not legally permissible to take off near airfields or in restricted areas. You must check local rules and airspace restrictions around your chosen area of flight. Every country has different air laws, and while the general guidelines are the same world-wide, local details may differ.

What is the flying range of a paramotor ?
This depends essentially on the weight of the pilot, the performance of the chosen wing, and of course on the quantity of fuel on board! A <> paramotor (one using a canopy of reasonable performance), with a flier whose weight is in a comparable range for the machine, will use between 3 and 4 litres of fuel per hour on average, giving around 2 and a half hours range with a 9,5-litre fuel tank.

What is the maximum wind speed a paramotor can fly in ?
Take-off can be achieved with no problem up to 10kph - any more than this, and you need to perform a reverse inflation and then turn round to take off.
The limit of wind speed for take-off is around 20 to 25 kph, but it must be understood that with 20 to 25 kph on the ground, the windspeed is likely to be 30 to 40 kph at altitude, and it may not then be possible to penetrate forwards, only to go backwards over the ground.
In these conditions, it is advisable not to fly, and it is often worth reminding yourself of the old aviation proverb: Even the most eminent persons are subject to the laws of gravity.

Propeller OÜ

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