“High level A with B upgrade”, useful or gimmick?
I am starting to think on my first wing. My instructor recommended me (and I have already been flying during the course) to check the Independence Pioneer 4:
https://www.independence.aero/en/paragliders/pioneer-4/ (it’s a German manufacturer and I’m based in Europe)
It has this unique feature:
HIGH-LEVEL A WITH B-UPGRADE
The Pioneer 4 stands for the High-Level A segment: lots of performance, generous safety reserves and precise, balanced handling.
The special feature: With the Speed Limiter, which can be installed or removed in a few simple steps, the accelerator travel can be adjusted. With Speed Limiter, the setup remains clearly A-oriented. Without Speed Limiter, the Pioneer 4 unfolds noticeably more speed and dynamism in accelerated flight – positioning itself as a basic intermediate in EN/LTF B.
Thus, the Pioneer 4 combines two setups in one wing:
A-setup for safe entry and comfortable feeling - B-setup for more performance, whenever the pilot is ready for the next step.
Pioneer 4: Fly EN A - then unlock EN B
Is this something actually useful? Are there other wings doing the same?
I come from a skydiving background, with ~500 jumps and multiple canopy piloting courses. I recognise they are very different wings and that I’m starting as a total beginner, but do suspect my progression may be a bit easier.