This is very interesting. Being new to the sport of hang gliding, and having seen the term "step towing" elsewhere many times, I had no idea what this even IS - until I watched this video. Brilliantly simple idea, making tows possible to heights far in excess of what the field length available for laying out the tow line would suggest, prior to commencing the launch. Like everything else, obviously requires knowledge and practice to do it safely and get the best results. I'm used to flying "classical" sailplanes which are much bigger, heavier and generally have much higher glide ratios than hang gliders. To my knowledge, this method has never been attempted with "classical" sailplanes.
the camera does distort it a bit but you have to start with your nose a bit high. Stationary winch towing is VERY different than any other way of getting a hang glider into the air. If you don't start with your nose a touch high, the glider gets pulled in front of the pilot's run once the winch starts pulling causing the pilot to run 2x+ more than they need to.
This is very interesting. Being new to the sport of hang gliding, and having seen the term "step towing" elsewhere many times, I had no idea what this even IS - until I watched this video. Brilliantly simple idea, making tows possible to heights far in excess of what the field length available for laying out the tow line would suggest, prior to commencing the launch. Like everything else, obviously requires knowledge and practice to do it safely and get the best results. I'm used to flying "classical" sailplanes which are much bigger, heavier and generally have much higher glide ratios than hang gliders. To my knowledge, this method has never been attempted with "classical" sailplanes.
I’m sure it’s all in the camera angle and lens distortion but the angle of attack at launch and early take off phase looks incredibly steep? 😅
the camera does distort it a bit but you have to start with your nose a bit high. Stationary winch towing is VERY different than any other way of getting a hang glider into the air. If you don't start with your nose a touch high, the glider gets pulled in front of the pilot's run once the winch starts pulling causing the pilot to run 2x+ more than they need to.
and now a remote control.....