Advance XI

Technical data

Perfect weight range choice

The XI size selection was thought of as having Seamless Weight Ranges between 10 and 15 kg steps. Every pilot’s flying weight will find itself within only one ideal takeoff weight range, because these ranges extend seamlessly through the glider sizes, but do not overlap. These XI ideal takeoff weight areas provide the optimal relationship between gliding speed and climb performance for each size in all normal flying conditions, and also take into account the different paraglider size characteristics.

Colours

Standard colours: Acid, White

Package

• COMPRESSBAG
• Repair Kit
• Mini windsock

XI – Allround Tourer

Real lightweight construction

Available from 3.4 kg with fully lightweight design: The XI uses a mix of 27 and 32 gm Porcher Skytex cloth. To save more weight the number of cells and sliced diagonals has been reduced. The stress distribution system has been reworked to coordinate these requirements. The result is a perfectly balanced entity.

Performing in all conditions

The XI combines light weight with the outstanding performance of the Performance-Intermediate IOTA 2. The High-end B wing features high pitch and directional stability in mobile air. This and its significant stability at speed encourage relaxed, hours-long flying – with performance you can call upon at any time.

Unique Allround talent

As an allround talent the XI takes you wherever you would like to go: on a long cross country following a hike to a remote takeoff, as your first vol-bivouac companion, on a trip round the world or an evening Hike & Fly - the antidote for a busy day. Your creativity has no bounds with a XI.

Technology & Features

The XI offers state-of-the-art lightweight paraglider technology and highly optimised features.

XI technology

Main XI paraglider technology includes..

Double 3D-Diamond Shaping

A diagonal perspective in the two-fold 3D shaping computations works to counteract seam-gathering (ruching) and the effects of the vertical forces across the profile. This achieves an even smoother canopy surface at the leading edge.

State-of-the-Art Technology

The latest technology is incorporated in the XI: for example the Advanced Air Scoop for friendly stall behaviour, short C-Wires for maximum profile retention and Miniribs for a smooth, efficient trailing edge.

Sliced Diagonals

The XI has Sliced Diagonals inside the wing to provide ideal tension distribution at minimum weight. Extensive work on this technology enabled many line support points to be saved, as well as ensuring the stable shape of the canopy itself, even under demanding aerodynamic and mechanical conditions.

Pitch Control System

The XI has a modern pitch control system for its trailing edge, which interconnects with the B-level. It can be flown actively and steered by the C/B-levels when accelerated.

XI riser features

XI line features

Colour coding

To make line sorting easier the XI A and brake lines are identified by different colours (grey and red) at the risers. Big ear lines, stabilo lines and the much-handled brake lines have a section of coloured cover running up from the riser end.

Twice coated

Edelrid Magix Pro lines differ from other uncovered versions because they undergo a detailed Thermo Shield treatment and have an additional UV-Protec-Coating, which filters out the sun’s damaging UV light. These finishing processes prolong life, provide resistance to dust and water, and, at the same time, minimise the loss of strength caused by UV radiation.

Very stable length

Compared with Dyneema, Aramid lines, in general, change their lengths very little. Edelrid “Magix Pro” demonstrates minimal stretching and shrinking – within a maximum 0.2 % - and this line has excellent return-to-original properties. Experience shows that paragliders, fully lined with Edelrid “Magix Pro”, do not require retrimming for very long periods. Original flying characteristics are retained even after much intensive use.

Robust dimensions

The use of “Magix Pro” for the XI does not put performance alone at the forefront. Line thickness is similar to that of traditional covereds. This measurement results in considerably higher strength for the same diameter, because the whole cross section shares the load – not just the core. The broad gauge of “Magix Pro” lines delivers longer life compared to similar thickness covered lines.

Inner loop reinforcement

Every XI line has internal loop reinforcement. To achieve this a length of the same line is spliced inside a loop, increasing its line diameter, and thus the surface area of loop to loop contact. This reduces pressure where thin line meets thicker, and avoids the problem of the thin line cutting into the other.

Outer loop reinforcement

Base line loops also have external covers to minimise wear where they meet their quicklink.

Materials

FAQ

What does the XI require of its pilot?
The lightweight Performance-Intermediate is suitable for experienced thermal pilots who have, at least, made their first cross country flights and have the necessary feeling for a High-EN/LTF-B wing. Only those who have acquired an active flying style, can recognise the onset of canopy disturbances and know how to react accordingly, will be able to fully make the most of the XI’s impressive performance. Mastery of the usual fast descent techniques for a High-EN/LTF-B paraglider is assumed.

XI or IOTA 2? Which one is right for me?
IOTA 2: for everyone who does not make weight a first priority and who would like a very robust wing.

XI: for adventurers, pilots who like to walk up to takeoffs, be it for long, ambitious cross countries or Hike und Fly – or the XI’s showpiece: Bivouac flying.

XI compared to the IOTA 2 (pdf)

How do I use the Pitch Control Function?
Instead of controlling canopy pitch by speedbar and steering by weightshift you can use the XI C-Risers directly. The advantage is direct handling response. A Pitch Control Line transmits some C-riser movement to the B-level. Please note that correct and instinctive control by C-Riser needs experience and practice. Pulling them too hard or fast risks stalling!

Which size XI should I choose?
If you fly in the normal variety of conditions you should choose the wing whose Seamless Weight Range contains your normal all-up flying flight.

Can I fly the XI outside my Seamless Weight Range?
Of course! The certified weight ranges are wider than the seamless weight ranges and overlap. The seamless (ideal) weight ranges with no overlapping areas just make it easier to choose – in fact there’s no choice required. Flying outside your seamless weight range – near the upper or lower certified weight limits – can influence a wing’s handling characteristics, without affecting your safety. Glider performance remains the same, but climb performance will vary.

Is there anything special about packing the XI?
Like all modern paragliders with leading edge and C-Wires we recommend that you pack the XI cell on cell. We have deliberately shortened the C-Wires for easier, smaller packing (e.g. for reversible harnesses). When packing always lay the nose wires one on the next, so that they lie flat on each other, at the same height. All C-Wires will then be at their own same level. Fold the wing to the width of the inner bag and fold it in as usual (see. pic.): first fold the trailing edge over inboard of the mini-ribs (below the C-Wires), then the leading edge below the Leading-Edge-Wires. Finally fold the leading edge half over the trailing edge end.

Flybubble has published a short packing video.

Why does the XI have Softlinks? Can I change a line?
We have a lot of positive experience with our light PI BI tandem wing which has Softlinks. They are one tenth the weight of metal quicklinks, for the same strength.

If you have to change a line the ADVANCE Softlink can be opened and closed without problem. No tool is needed. There’s a guide in the manual with the picture underneath. If you are not sure how to do this, or have any question, always ask an ADVANCE Service Centre.

ADVANCE Softlink guide (jpg)

What do I get by registering my paraglider in my MyADVANCE Account?
By registering you benefit from the extended ADVANCE warranty. This is valid for three years for defects that can be attributed to manufacturing faults. You will also be informed about safety-relevant intelligence about your ADVANCE product direct from us.

In the MyADVANCE Account you will find all the documents and data concerning your XI as a PDF, e.g. manual, line plan, check protocol and other assorted information. There you can look at spare parts for your XI or discuss support questions direct.

The XI is made of lightweight fabrics; what effect does this have on its lifespan?
No paraglider should be dragged over the ground, stored wet, left in the sun without need, dunked in salt water or exposed to large temperature changes while packed. This advice applies in particular to a light wing like a XI. If you look after it carefully, you will be able to enjoy your XI for a long time.

What does the XI come with?
The XI is delivered with an inner bag. It does not come with a rucksack.

Downloads

• MANUAL (pdf)
• GETTING STARTED (pdf)
• PRODUCT PRESENTATION (pdf)
• LINE PLAN (pdf)

Advance XI light paraglider reviews

The XI appeals to many paraglider pilot groups. For a light ‘high B’ wing there’s nothing ‘hot’ about the XI. It’s very settled and accessible to a broad range of pilots. In summary, the XI is very easy to launch, simple and pleasant to fly, and performs very well. It offers everything most keen, fun-loving cross country hike-and-fly pilots could want, and really need. 

- Flybubble (full review)

Read our Advance XI paraglider review article then watch the accompanying video review below.

The glider performed really well in all conditions. Yes, you do have to be aware that it is ultralight, and on windy take offs more vigilance is needed. The same applies to rocky take-offs: care has to be taken with the ultralight cloth. However for me, Nirvana in paragliding is to have a safe, performant glider capable of 100k flights, enjoyable to fly in all conditions, to take on great Alpine adventures. One that is compact and light … and keeps you out of the clutches of the chiropractor. The Xi is as good as it gets!

- Skywings magazine (full review (pdf))

As far as I am concerned, I adore flying this lovely wing. It's easy and precise, without any excesses in communication and performance. Of course, I also love the small amount of space it takes up in a backpack climbing up to take-ff. Summary: The Xi is a great success, surfing on the Iota 2 wave, but lighter still! In fact, it opens up even more horizons, with even more comfort for hike and fly and obvious in-flight efficiency.

- free.aero magazine (full review)

For a light high performance B, the XI is a nice companion for travel, hike and fly, and XC. The overall performance is among the top B’s. Nice handling, pleasure feel in thermals, and a small packing volume.

- Ziad Bassil, Dust of the universe (full review)

The lightweight wing Xi, like its closely related brother Iota 2, is geared towards performance-oriented XC flying in the EN-B class. With his calm, yet powerful manner on demand, he exudes a certain nonchalance. In the round of the high-B wings, he is one of the more accessible characters. Weight, pack size and the easy take-off behaviour go well with travel adventures. The Xi also cuts a fine figure over the lowlands with its stoic turning behaviour in a positive sense.

- Lucian Haas, Lu-Glidz (full review)

The XI is a true lightweight in its class and has exceptional performance. I feel confident and safe under it – under any conditions. So I really can use its complete potential.

- Nicola Heiniger (Advance team pilot, Eigertour Challenge Race winner on a XI)