BGD Epic Freestyle 2 paraglider
The BGD Epic Freestyle 2 gives experienced pilots a forgiving route into supervised SIV, freestyle and acro flying. The wing holds EN/LTF-B certification and combines playful handling with predictable recovery behaviour.
Most importantly, the Epic Freestyle 2 helps pilots build confidence while learning new manoeuvres. For example, pilots can use it to develop stalls, spins, SATs and helicopters.
If a pilot makes a poor input, the wing aims to recover without an overly aggressive forward pitch. As a result, it feels less demanding than many specialist acro wings.
However, this is not a paraglider for complete beginners. The word “beginner” refers to experienced pilots beginning supervised SIV, freestyle or acro training.
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 key features
The BGD Epic Freestyle 2 offers:
- EN/LTF-B certification
- Playful and forgiving handling
- A moderate 5.0 flat aspect ratio
- Predictable pitch and recovery behaviour
- Good resistance to cravats
- New neoprene-covered risers
- Internal speed-system routing
- Tethered BGD Acro brake handles
- 42 cells
- Five sizes from XS to L
- Certified weight ranges from 50 kg to 125 kg
- Suitability for soaring, thermalling and recreational XC flying
In addition, the wing can perform basic acro manoeuvres and demanding connections. Therefore, pilots can continue using it as their skills develop.
Freestyle and acro progression
At first, pilots can use the Epic Freestyle 2 to practise stalls, spins, SATs and helicopters. After that, they can progress to more advanced connections.
These connections include:
- Heli to SAT
- Misty to Heli
- Mactwist to Heli
- Joker
- Reverse manoeuvres
Above all, the wing gives pilots room to learn. If the timing or input is not perfect, the Epic Freestyle 2 aims to recover without the violent pitch of a more demanding acro wing.
Nevertheless, every acro manoeuvre carries serious risks. Therefore, pilots must practise over a suitable area with enough height, qualified instruction and the correct rescue support.
Predictable recovery behaviour
When a manoeuvre goes wrong, the Epic Freestyle 2 aims to recover with a steady forward pitch. Afterwards, the wing settles without shooting as aggressively as many specialist acro wings.
Furthermore, the design helps the wing resist cravats. Consequently, instructors and developing freestyle pilots can focus on steady progression.
However, EN-B certification does not make acro flying safe. Pilots must still use good judgement, suitable equipment and proper instruction.
Who should fly the BGD Epic Freestyle 2?
The Epic Freestyle 2 may suit:
- Experienced recreational pilots beginning supervised SIV
- Pilots starting freestyle or acro training
- Intermediate pilots developing their manoeuvre skills
- Advanced pilots wanting a forgiving freestyle wing
- SIV and acro schools
- Pilots wanting one wing for freestyle and recreational flying
However, complete beginners should choose a conventional training wing. In other words, pilots should already have solid launching, landing and general handling skills before beginning SIV or acro training.
Pilots looking for a conventional progression wing can also view the BGD Magic 2. Alternatively, pilots who want a lightweight wing can consider the BGD Anda.
In addition, the BGD Warp harness can complete your flying equipment. Newer pilots may also want to view our paragliding equipment and training package.
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 wing loading
Always choose a size that keeps your total flying weight inside the certified range.
For example, pilots learning new manoeuvres can fly in the lower or middle part of the range. This position usually gives calmer handling and supports steady progression.
Later, experienced pilots may choose a higher wing loading for faster and more dynamic handling. However, the best size also depends on your ability, equipment weight, intended use and normal flying conditions.
Therefore, contact us before ordering if you need help choosing a size.
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 risers
The Epic Freestyle 2 keeps the proven profile and technical design of the original Epic Freestyle. However, BGD has added new neoprene-covered risers.
The neoprene improves comfort during manoeuvres. In addition, it helps reduce snagging.
BGD has also routed the speed system along the inside of the A-risers. As a result, the speed-system lines remain better protected during twisted manoeuvres.
BGD Acro brake handles
BGD supplies the Epic Freestyle 2 with its new Acro brake handles. These slim handles provide a secure and comfortable grip.
In addition, each handle has a neoprene-covered T-bar. BGD positions the T-bar at a slight angle to create a more natural hand position.
An elastic bungee connects each Acro handle to the riser. Consequently, pilots using free brakes can release a handle without losing it.
Alternatively, pilots can remove the tether when using conventional brake legs. Pilots can also fit standard brake handles. However, standard handles require brake legs and cannot use the tether system.
Everyday recreational flying
Although BGD created the Epic Freestyle 2 for freestyle progression, the wing can do much more. For example, pilots can use it for coastal soaring, thermalling and recreational cross-country flights.
Therefore, owners do not need to reserve it only for SIV or acro sessions. Instead, they can enjoy it as a playful recreational wing between training sessions.
What is included with the BGD Epic Freestyle 2?
The package includes:
- BGD Epic Freestyle 2 paraglider
- Compression strap
- Riser bag
- Acro cover
- Rucksack
- Repair cloth
- BGD stickers
- BGD gift
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 weight range
Always fly within the certified weight range.
For learning new manoeuvres, BGD recommends flying in the lower to middle part of the certified weight range. As your skills develop, you may choose to fly the wing more heavily loaded for faster and more dynamic handling.
Consequently, you should consider the following before selecting a size:
- Your all-up flying weight
- Your current experience
- Your intended use
- Your preferred handling
- Your normal flying conditions
If you are unsure which size to order, contact us before buying.
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 size guide
| Size | Flat area | Certified weight range |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 21 m² | 50–65 kg |
| S | 23 m² | 60–80 kg |
| M | 25 m² | 75–95 kg |
| ML | 27 m² | 90–110 kg |
| L | 29 m² | 105–125 kg |
BGD Epic Freestyle 2 technical specifications
| Specification | XS | S | M | ML | L |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linear scaling factor | 0.96 | 1.00 | 1.04 | 1.08 | 1.12 |
| Projected area | 17.9 m² | 19.6 m² | 21.2 m² | 22.8 m² | 24.5 m² |
| Flat area | 21 m² | 23 m² | 25 m² | 27 m² | 29 m² |
| Glider weight | 4.4 kg | 4.8 kg | 5.1 kg | 5.3 kg | 5.6 kg |
| Total line length | 210 m | 230 m | 250 m | 268 m | 289 m |
| Height | 6.7 m | 7.0 m | 7.3 m | 7.5 m | 7.8 m |
| Root chord | 2.6 m | 2.7 m | 2.8 m | 2.9 m | 3.0 m |
| Flat span | 10.2 m | 10.7 m | 11.2 m | 11.6 m | 12.0 m |
| Projected span | 8.0 m | 8.4 m | 8.8 m | 9.07 m | 9.4 m |
| Certified weight range | 50–65 kg | 60–80 kg | 75–95 kg | 90–110 kg | 105–125 kg |
| Certification | EN/LTF-B | EN/LTF-B | EN/LTF-B | EN/LTF-B | EN/LTF-B |
Additional specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of main lines | 3/4/3 – A/B/C |
| Number of cells | 42 |
| Flat aspect ratio | 5.0 |
| Projected aspect ratio | 3.6 |
| Trim speed | 38 km/h |
| Top speed | Approximately 50 km/h |
| Certification | EN/LTF-B |
Epic Freestyle 2 materials
The Epic Freestyle 2 uses proven Porcher fabrics and Liros lines. Therefore, it combines a durable sail construction with dependable line materials.
| Component | Material |
|---|---|
| Top surface | Porcher Skytex 38 g/m² |
| Leading edge | Porcher Skytex 38 g/m² |
| Bottom surface | Porcher Eazyfly 40 g/m² |
| Internal structure | Porcher Skytex hard finish 40 g/m² |
| Reinforcement | 2.3 mm and 2.7 mm plastic wire |
| Upper lines | Liros DC |
| Middle lines | Liros DSL sheathed Dyneema |
| Lower lines | Liros TSL |
| Brake lines | Liros DSL |
