🧭 Use Guide – Mastering the Gin Bonanza 3 PURE XC EN C Wing

The Gin Bonanza 3 PURE XC EN C Wing is engineered for high-efficiency cross-country flight. To get the best out of this wing, understanding its launch behavior, in-flight handling, and descent techniques is key. This guide walks you through each stage—from unpacking to touchdown—so you can make the most of your flights with clarity and control.

Before You Fly

Pre-Flight Preparation

1. Inspect the Wing Thoroughly

   • Check for fabric damage, seam wear, or tangled lines.

   • Inspect riser connections, line condition, and speed system routing.

2. Choose the Right Conditions

   • Optimal wind for takeoff: 5–20 km/h.

   • Avoid strong gusts, rotor zones, or turbulent valley winds, especially when thermals are sharp.

3. Weight Range Compliance

   • Fly within the certified weight range printed on the wing label.

   • Flying too light can reduce performance; too heavy can affect safety.

Launching the Bonanza 3

Forward Launch (Light Wind)

• Lay the canopy in a crescent with clean lines and risers.

• Use gentle, even pressure to raise the wing.

• The lightweight fabric and low-drag design make inflation smooth and progressive.

• Apply brake pressure only as the wing nears zenith—no overcorrection needed.

Reverse Launch (Stronger or Variable Wind)

• Position yourself with risers untwisted and lines clearly visible.

• Pull A-risers with a smooth, controlled motion.

• The wing climbs cleanly and rarely overshoots due to its refined pitch stability.

• Once overhead, turn decisively and transition into flight.

In-Flight Handling

Thermalling and Climbing

• Use minimal brake input for small adjustments—Bonanza 3 responds precisely.

• Center in strong cores using weight shift and inside brake.

• The wing maintains a tight turning radius while retaining energy.

Gliding

• Set your course and trim the wing using speed bar for maximum glide.

• Employ rear riser steering while on bar—especially during transitions or active air.

• Use subtle pressure to manage pitch and optimize line selection without sacrificing speed.

Speed Bar Usage

• The Bonanza 3 remains solid and stable through most of the speed range.

• Apply bar progressively; use rear risers to keep the wing level and pitch-neutral.

• Avoid full bar in extremely turbulent air without active piloting.

Descent Techniques

Big Ears

• Pull outer A-risers smoothly to induce big ears.

• Wing remains stable; descent rate increases without excessive pitch.

• Release ears with a small pump of the brakes to restore full span.

Spiral Dive

• Enter progressively with weight shift and brake.

• Maintain visual reference and exit slowly to avoid disorientation.

B-Stall (Not Recommended)

• While possible, this method is rarely needed thanks to the wing’s sink performance and handling on bar.

• If necessary, use only under supervision or training conditions.

Landing

Final Approach

• Plan well ahead: set up downwind, base, and final legs if possible.

• Bonanza 3 has excellent glide, so account for it in tight landing zones.

Flare and Touchdown

• Use a progressive flare at 1–2 meters above the ground.

• The wing retains energy well, helping smooth out even imperfect timing.

Packing and Storage

• Concertina folding helps preserve the leading edge shape.

• Use a GIN Inner Bag or Compression Bag for protection and convenience.

• Store dry, in a cool place—avoid prolonged exposure to UV or moisture.

Recommended Harness & Setup

• Pod harnesses like the Genie Lite 3 or Genie X-Lite pair beautifully with the Bonanza 3 for XC missions.

• Make sure speed system is correctly adjusted—bar should reach full travel without resistance or slack.

Maintenance Tips

• Re-trim check recommended every 50–100 hours.

• Avoid dragging the wing on rough terrain.

• Perform annual line check and porosity test to ensure long-term safety and performance.

 Safety to Fly – Confidence in Every Condition

Flying the Gin Bonanza 3 PURE XC EN C Wing offers a well-balanced combination of advanced performance and high safety margins for experienced XC pilots. While it belongs to the EN C category and is aimed at active pilots with solid skills, it incorporates refined safety features to ensure consistent behavior in dynamic air.

Built-In Stability for Active Air

Even when conditions become turbulent or thermals are strong and punchy, the Bonanza 3 maintains pitch and roll stability, helping to reduce pilot workload during long flights. Thanks to GIN’s Equalized Pressure Technology (EPT), pressure distribution across the wing stays smooth, minimizing abrupt reactions to surges or collapses.

Progressive Reactions for Predictable Control

Should a collapse occur—whether asymmetrical or frontal—the wing’s reactions are progressive and manageable. With proper active piloting, recovery is swift and intuitive, reducing the chance of cascade effects or complex scenarios. Brake authority remains responsive without being overly sensitive, allowing you to make precise corrections quickly.

Reliable Launch and Landing Safety

Whether you’re launching from a high mountain takeoff or a tight valley floor, the Bonanza 3’s light fabric construction makes inflation smooth and stress-free. It comes up overhead in a straight, controlled manner, even in light wind or reverse launches—giving you a calm, centered launch experience. Landings are also predictable, with energy retention helping to cushion your flare.

Safety Highlights at a Glance

• ✅ EN C Certified: For skilled pilots who actively manage their wing

• ✅ Pitch-stable on bar: Rear riser control enables confident accelerated flight

• ✅ Progressive collapse recovery: Predictable reactions to disturbances

• ✅ Lightweight design: Smooth, manageable inflation on any launch

• ✅ Responsive brake authority: Clear communication between pilot and wing

• ✅ Excellent flare characteristics: Smooth, controlled landings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Gin Bonanza 3 PURE XC EN C Wing

Q1: Who is the Gin Bonanza 3 PURE XC EN C Wing best suited for?
A: This wing is designed for experienced pilots who have solid active flying skills and seek to progress into the EN C category. It’s ideal for cross-country enthusiasts aiming for longer flights, efficient glide, and responsive handling.

Q2: What certification does the Bonanza 3 have?
A: The Bonanza 3 is certified EN C, meaning it offers a balanced mix of performance and safety suitable for skilled pilots who actively manage their wing in diverse conditions.

Q3: How does the Bonanza 3 handle in turbulent or active air?
A: Thanks to its advanced profile and Equalized Pressure Technology (EPT), the Bonanza 3 maintains excellent pitch and roll stability. Collapses, if any, are progressive and manageable, giving pilots confidence in active conditions.

Q4: Can I use a pod harness with this wing?
A: Absolutely. The Bonanza 3 pairs exceptionally well with pod harnesses such as the Gin Genie Lite 3 or Genie X-Lite, optimizing aerodynamic efficiency and pilot comfort for cross-country flights.

Q5: What are the advantages of rear riser steering on this wing?
A: Rear riser steering allows subtle pitch control, especially when flying accelerated on bar. This feature enhances stability and maneuverability, helping pilots maintain control in fast glide or turbulent air.

Q6: Is the Bonanza 3 suitable for beginner pilots?
A: No. The Bonanza 3 requires active piloting skills and experience with EN B or high-B wings before progressing to it. It’s not recommended for novice or low-hour pilots.

Q7: How does the Bonanza 3 compare to the Bonanza 2?
A: The Bonanza 3 offers improved pitch stability, lighter handling, a more efficient leading-edge design, and an overall more refined flying experience. It’s a clear evolution targeting enhanced XC performance.

Q8: What is the recommended weight range for flying the Bonanza 3?
A: Always refer to the specific size’s certified weight range on the wing label. Flying within this range ensures optimal performance, handling, and safety.

Q9: How should I care for my Bonanza 3 to maximize longevity?
A: Store the wing in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Avoid dragging it on rough surfaces and perform regular line checks and canopy porosity tests. Using a compression bag helps maintain fabric integrity during transport.

Q10: Can the Bonanza 3 be used for vol-bivouac or hike-and-fly adventures?
A: Yes. Its lightweight construction and efficient glide make it an excellent choice for alpine launches, long hikes, and multi-day cross-country flights.