NEWS : NEW GENERATION OF WINGS!

The 2023 range of GONG wings is online!!!

It is not an evolution but a revolution in terms of performance and comfort.

In this young sport, every step forward is a giant leap. We have listed 2 full pages of evolutions in 2023 to offer wings that are even more efficient, light and durable. It’s just amazing! Hundreds of prototypes, simulations, thousands of tests all over the world to bring you wings that are both flawless and in perfect harmony with your expectations.

Here are some examples of our many improvements, which we will discuss in detail with you on the networks and our forum.

To begin with, general changes are adopted across the entire 2023 range: Plus, SuperPower, Pulse, Droid and Neutra.

The entire range benefits from changes in shape, assembly and equipment, the benefits of which could be summarized by more performance and steering precision, full option equipment and a strength/lightness ratio unprecedented on the market. Here is an overview of these general changes:

Assembly

The size of the leading edge segments has been reviewed (especially the sections preceding the tips) to optimize rigidity and curvature. This redistribution is both on the length of each segment and on the diameter of the sections to find the perfect compromise between stiffness/tolerance, power/smoothness, take-off/control, stability/handling, etc… for each wing.

Re-segmentation of the leading edge with the addition of two sections: a central one for the rigidity of the dihedral (ideal for jumps and acceleration) and the connection with the central strut, and a second one to optimize performance by optimizing the profile with more cutouts and therefore more progressiveness in the front of the shape.

Strong increase in tensions for a more precise feel and more rigidity. More tension translates to wings that are more demanding as they may seem technical when pumping underpowered and powerful in high range. We have nevertheless made the choice to increase the tension of our wings and offer maximum efficiency for a new experience in terms of performance. The behavior of the wings remains perfect in every program, because a Plus stays cool for example. But each wing has been radicalized to offer much more.

Shape

A dihedral that’s less important to boost the wings. Having more dihedral translates into more tolerant wings, and less dihedral delivers more performance. In excess, too much dihedral blocks the Wing in rotation (in tacks, jibes and loops) and decreases upwind and low range performance. In the end it’s just pretty… So we found the perfect balance between performance and tolerance. Our wings are super fast in rotation, powerful and only the tips release the excess of power.

Optimized profile according to the shape to best suit the different programs. Adding segments allows you to place the curve of the hollow with more precision. Adding panels locks it down. We feel a big difference in navigation with a profile that offers much more performance. Simple FS360 quickly turn into 720s… It’s almost shocking the first 15 minutes! We really go higher and faster.

Optimization of the twisting of the canopy on the leading edge for better aerodynamics. The seam line of the leading edge canopy is redefined to obtain a hollow that is constant in all situations.

A more hollowed out trailing edge: some wings are much more hollowed out and others slightly. The objective is to reduce vibrations while maintaining a maximum of useful surface.

The central strut

The central strut now adopts a Z shape. The assembly of the panels is now perpendicular to the strut, like the leading edge, which makes it much stronger at high pressure. The connection with the new central segments is firmer. The central third is studied so as not to bend between the hands. Because it is between the hands that a large part of flexing develops, loosening the trailing edge. We blocked this point for more power and precision of the wing.

Finally, the rear third of the batten is sewn directly onto the canopy without using an extra panel for the hollow. This increases the batten section at the back hand and gives it greater resistance to leeward bending. The strut is twice as stiff, guaranteeing a constant shape in jumps or gusts. The rear hand acts directly on the trailing edge thanks to a diagonal cut on the last section of the central strut. Thus the rear point of the rear handle is placed after the start of this wide cone, pulling on the rear hand closes the strut instead of letting it open on the classic struts. This reduces flapping and delivers an impressive power. The stiffness gained allows you to control the wing with great finesse and brings consistency in its behavior.

The rear handle

The rear handles are replaced by a single handle, which is wider and placed 5cm behind the most forward handle on the V2. This results in an even more natural riding position. The large rear handle makes it easier to grab, instinctively. The front handle remains as on the V2 because we place it perfectly. It’s precise. By moving your hand on the rear handle, you dose the “throttle control”. This rear handle is torsionally stiffened, but still just as soft in the hand. The gap between the handle and the strut remains identical to the V2: no feeling of floating. It’s direct and precise.

Construction

Replacement of anti-flaps and mini battens with new cylindrical fiberglass micro battens that are much lighter and more flexible so as not to create a hard point; and replaceable or removable very easily.

The work on the structure and the distribution of materials has made it possible to lighten our 2023 range significantly: on average 400g less depending on the model for a 5m², it’s absolutely crazy! From your first grip, the difference is stunning!

The 2023 range also brings specific developments for each model. Here’s a first look at it:

The wing tips

The tips are different from one wing to another. The Neutra keeps very round inflatable tips so as not to catch on to water. The Plus keeps the tips in long inflatable segments to maintain its slight “flex” which brings a lot of tolerance when pumping and in wind gusts. The SP, Pulse and Droid have a new tip design.

The SuperPower, Pulse and Droid benefit from our new LDS technology (Low Drag System), this world first allows a new management of the drag with the integration of a removable rigid batten which allows a perfect tapering of the last section of the tips. The flow of the airflow in the wings is not linear or parallel to the batten. They essentially go sideways towards the tips. This diagonal tendency in the flows creates an overpressure in the intrado on large tips with a voluminous section. Our innovation is to drop the volume of the tips almost to zero so that the air is no longer retained. The wing enjoys deep breaths of air! The gain in speed and stability of the wing is stunning. The system is perfectly rigid but removable with a discreet, reliable and super classy system.

Windows

On the Plus, Superpower and Pulse, the need for visibility, especially for security, led us to offer a panoramic view from your control room. The two large PVC windows centered on the canopy and a PVC window on the small canopy panel between the strut and the main canopy guarantee you an exceptional panorama at first glance. These PVC panels fit perfectly into the profile of the wing and are very durable, especially against low temperatures and folding.

On the Neutra and Droid, which are aimed at experienced riders, priority is given to lightness by completely removing the windows.

New sizes

The sizes of the different wings have been reviewed to better suit their program and cover the specific needs of each rider. For example, the 2023 Neutra is available in 8 sizes including 4 intermediate sizes for a perfect quiver: 2m², 2.5m², 3m², 3.5m², 4m², 4.5m², 5m² and 5.5m².

See you next week in our magazine and on our social networks to discover all these new models in detail! On pre-sale from today with a first glimpse at the range in action right here: