Performance

With each generation of materials and with the improvements in aerodynamics, the performance of hang gliders has increased. One measure of performance is the glide ratio. For example, a ratio of 121 means that in smooth air a glider can travel forward 12 metres while only losing 1 metre of altitude.Some performance figures as of 2006 Topless gliders (no kingpost) glide ratio ~171, speed range ~30 to >145 km h, best glide at 45 to 60 km h Rigid wings glide ratio ~201, speed range ~ 35 to > 130 km h, best glide at ~50 to 60 km h.