Hi Todd,

This is Bill Gargano. I designed the SkyBolt. Given the information in your email, it sounds like it could be power management from the initial inflation to take-off. The SkyBolt requires very little power (especially when flown single place) to achieve initial inflation. If too much power is used, the wing will want to do as you described. If high power is maintained, it will only get worse until it is off the ground.

For inflation, use just enough power to get the vehicle rolling while watching the wing. Add only enough power so the wing inflates symmetrically and smoothly climbs overhead. At that point, power should be only enough to keep it overhead while the pilot inspects the inflated wing. (If too much power is used, brakes are added or the vehicle turned then, the wing will begin to oscillate from side to side. And more power will only make it worse.) Once inspected, then add the power needed for take-off and make any needed steering corrections.

The take-off should not be stressful. The SkyBolt was designed to inflate smoothly and to climb overhead with a fairly low power setting with the idea that it is easier for the pilot to inspect the inflated wing at a slower speed.

Please let me know if the power setting(s) is/was the source. If you or Glen would like to discuss it, I can be reached at 720-564-0835.

Safe Flying,
Bill


Bill Gargano
Quantum Parachutes, LLC
3919 15th Street
Boulder, CO 80304-1101
bill@parachutes.com
720-564-0835