Introduction

The manual introduces the LIGHTNESS 3 harness by ADVANCE, highlighting its quality and the importance of reading the manual for safety, care, and maintenance. Users are encouraged to register their product online for updates and support.

About ADVANCE

ADVANCE is a renowned paragliding manufacturer from Switzerland, known for quality products and innovative designs. The company focuses on customer support and continuous improvement through feedback.

LIGHTNESS 3 Overview

The LIGHTNESS 3 harness offers enhanced comfort and protection, with options for a standard or light speedbag and an optional windshield for long-distance flights. It features redesigned suspension for stability and a modular system for flexibility.

Features

The harness includes SAS-TEC back protection, ample storage, and various adjustment options for a customized fit. The LIGHTPACK 3 rucksack complements the harness with ergonomic design and multiple pockets.

Safety Advice

Paragliding requires proper training, equipment checks, and adherence to safety protocols. The harness is not suitable for free fall parachuting, and protectors only reduce impact severity. Pilots must assess weather conditions and ensure equipment readiness before flight.

Handling and Care

The LIGHTNESS 3 is lightweight and requires careful handling to prevent damage. Users should avoid dragging the harness and ensure proper use of zips and storage compartments.

Delivery and Setup

The product package includes the harness, speedbag, protectors, carabiners, and other components. Initial setup involves adjusting the harness for a personalized fit, with adjustments possible both on the ground and in flight.

Technical Data and Service

The manual provides technical specifications, material descriptions, and certification details. ADVANCE offers a service network for customer support and product registration for warranty coverage.

Adjustment Process

Ensure the back pocket is packed correctly for flight, including the reserve. Small adjustments can significantly affect harness fit, so make changes gradually and symmetrically to maintain straight flight.

Speedbag Size Selection

The speedbag material stretches, and most pilots use the size that matches their harness. However, pilots with atypical leg lengths may need a different size. If changing speedbags, use the correct length lines for the new bag. In height overlap areas, try both crossover sizes.

Basic Settings

Start with the harness and speedbag at their basic settings, indicated by grey sewing and black pen marks. Adjust from these standard measurements to find your ideal position.

Speedbag Adjustment

Correct speedbag length is crucial for setting the pilot's center of gravity. Adjust the heel position in small steps and ensure the underside of the speedbag is horizontal in flight.

Upper Body Angle

Adjust the back-recline angle with back straps and shoulder straps for desired support.

Fine Adjustments

Use lower back straps for lumbar support and thigh straps for leg support.

Chest Strap Adjustment

The chest strap affects pilot/glider agility. A wider setting increases agility, while a narrower setting provides a quieter feel. Adjust to personal comfort.

Mini Chest Strap

Holds shoulder straps in place during takeoff and landing.

Final Settings Check

Ensure the speedbag is horizontal and the seat does not press into the knees.

Speed System Setup

The speed system is pre-fitted. Adjust speed loop lengths to ensure full acceleration range without permanent acceleration.

Closing the Speedbag

Use the Closure Remember System for safety, ensuring all buckles and loops are closed before takeoff.

Cockpit and Instrument Panel

The cockpit includes a zip-closed pocket for batteries and a detachable panel for instruments. Secure electronic items with tape loops.

Optional Windshield

Reduces windchill and noise. Clip it to the harness and store it in the COMPRESSBAG after flight.

Additional Stowage

A 6-liter compartment under the seat is available for storage.

Sensible Details

Includes shoulder attachments for devices and a pocket for drink systems.

Relief Tube Routing

Provides a hygienic solution for long flights, with easy access and routing.

Step-in Aid

Facilitates entry into the speedbag after takeoff, especially for the Light speedbag.

Replacing Parts

The LIGHTNESS 3 components can be removed for repair or replacement. Safety considerations are advised against removing protective elements.

Foam Protector and SAS-TEC Back Protection

Instructions for removal and replacement, with caution about cold temperatures affecting SAS-TEC material.

Speedbag Replacement

Detailed steps for removing and fitting a new speedbag, emphasizing the use of original components for safety and functionality.

Carbon Seatboard and Speed Loop

Instructions for fitting and securing the footboard and speed loop, ensuring proper connections to avoid damage.

Installation and Safety Precautions

Ensure that speed and speedbag lines do not cross to avoid cutting. Use only original speed lines and loops to prevent damage to the speedbag and harness.

Installing the Reserve

Familiarize with the reserve/harness system, especially if new components are involved. The LIGHTNESS 3 reserve compartment is aerodynamically positioned near the pilot's center of gravity. Installation should be done by a skilled person, and a compatibility test is essential.

Reserve Specifications

Certified volumes for LIGHTNESS 3 vary by size: S (3-5.5 liters), M (3-6 liters), L (3-6.5 liters). A reserve's volume can expand by up to 30% after repacking, necessitating a new compatibility test.

Steerable Reserves

Can be connected using Maillons Rapide with a safe working load of 2400 daN. Compatibility tests are crucial to ensure proper function.

Inner Container Packing

Fold the reserve to fit the inner container, ensuring 90 cm of reserve line remains outside. Proper closure of the container is critical to prevent jamming.

Connecting the Reserve

Use a suitable quicklink of at least 2400 daN safe load. ADVANCE approves loop-in-loop connections with COMPANION reserves, provided safety measures are observed.

Compatibility Test

Conduct a test release in a flying position to ensure proper installation. The force required should be between 4 daN and 7 daN.

General Use and Adjustments

The LIGHTNESS 3 is designed for a reclining position, with weight distributed evenly for comfort. The EASY CONNECT system aids in safe clipping of the paraglider.

Takeoff and Landing

Check harness, helmet, lines, canopy, wind, and airspace before takeoff. Ensure chest strap is securely closed. For landing, exit the speedbag early and land upright.

Speedbag and Speed Loop Use

The speedbag closes automatically when legs are stretched. Use the speed loop for acceleration, ensuring lines are not too short.

Specifications and Usage

The LIGHTNESS 3 is a lightweight XC harness designed for paragliding. It lacks a separate water ballast compartment and is not suitable for school training, acro flying, or tandem flying. It is compatible with any glider and suitable for winching.

Flying with Ballast

Extra weight should be divided between the back pocket and underfloor stowage. For more weight, hang it from the carabiners.

Water Landings

Wearing a lifejacket is essential during SIV training. In case of water landing, unfasten the harness buckles immediately to avoid drowning.

Packing and Hiking

The LIGHTPACK 3 is designed to carry the paraglider, harness, and additional items. It is most comfortable when full and lightly tensioned. Use rubber tips for hiking poles to protect the backpack fabric.

Care and Maintenance

The harness should be checked annually for wear and damage. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, UV light, and saltwater. Clean with fresh water and neutral soap if necessary.

Certification and Repairs

The LIGHTNESS 3 is certified according to DIN EN-Norm 1651. Repairs should only be conducted by the manufacturer or an authorized service center.

Warranty

The ADVANCE warranty covers manufacturing defects for three years from the date of purchase. It does not cover damage from misuse or normal wear and tear.

Service Centers and Online Resources

ADVANCE operates service centers in Switzerland and France. The website offers product registration, warranty information, and additional resources.