The latest technology makes it possible to simulate structural loadings in detail, and therefore choose the most suitable materials for individual parts of the paraglider. The leading edge has profile-retaining crossed nylon wires sewn in. Combined with the Smart Sail System these add significant wear-resistance to the wing. Sliced Diagonals, made especially strong for a tandem, still contribute to inner weight reduction, but at no cost to robustness.

The BIBETA 6 is a completely new design with a complex internal structure. This policy reduces the number of canopy support points required, and the lines to go with them - so there are fewer to sort. A modern profile only calls for three riser levels – again even easier to sort. Then again, we have coloured the A-lines to make them easy to see when preparing for takeoff. All the lines have a coloured cover at their quicklink loops relevant to their level, and both stabilo and brake lines are identified by a longer coloured cover at their lower ends.

No. The Edelrid “Magix Pro” Aramid lines receive extensive treatments, such as the Thermo Shield process and UV-Protec-Coating during manufacture, and do not require special handing during normal use. Of course the general principles of line care apply for the BIBETA 6 as for any paraglider - damp storing, dust, physical abuse by stones or boots will shorten the life of any line.

Many years experience show us that, under good conditions, a BIBETA canopy in professional use lasts for around 1,000 flights. By good conditions we assume takeoffs and landings on grass, and correct care - dry storing and considerate packing. The lines themselves do not last this long. When planning for a use of the glider up to its full lifespan, the lines should be changed at around half this projected number of flights.

There are four different BIBETA 6 spreaders: hard (rigid), soft (weich), soft adjustable (soft trimm) and soft adjustable with Quickouts (soft trimm Quickout). The passenger can be supported at two positions with the hard spreaders, and three for the soft. Soft adjustables are continuously adjustable to suit various passenger heights; a spring-clip system means that this setting can be altered in flight. This version can also take Quickout carabiners.

The BIBETA 6 has split A-risers which make it easy to pull big ears. A jam cleat on the back of each C-riser (Vary-Grip-System) makes it possible to fix an outer A-line in the big ear position for as long as the pilot wishes. The big ear position can be adjusted and re-fixed in the cleat. The Vary-Grip-System also enables the pilot to steer normally with the brakes while big ears are applied.

The brake line guides (connection between riser and brake ring) can be fixed at three different positions on the C-risers. This adjustment is to suit the height and arm length of the pilot.

The takeoff weight range of the 38 (100 to 180 kg) means that the BIBETA 6 is suitable for solo flying. This makes sense if a suitable solo wing is not available (usually 130 kg max). The EPSILON 8 Basic-Intermediate is certified up to 140 kg in its extended weight range. For more information please contact your ADVANCE dealer.

The BIBETA 6 comes in two sizes (38 and 41). Modern build saves 16 % of line metres. This tandem for professionals has only three riser levels and will please its owners with a weight from 6.9 kg and 15 % smaller packed volume. 3-way 3D panel shaping and high quality Aramid lines make it a two-seater for the most demanding pilot. New brake handle magnets and height-adjustable line guides also make everyday life a little more convenient.

An industrial tandem demands a high level of robustness and long life; but it also needs friendly and simple handling as well as a high degree of safety. The BIBETA 6 ticks all these boxes, and its precise response to the smallest control input makes it great fun to fly. These features are particularly important to the private tandem pilot as well. So the answer is Yes! Of course the BIBETA 6 is suitable for private use. If it’s right for the professional it’ll be fantastic for the spare-time tandem pilot.