We are now testing the ParaFan K100, intended to be the most advanced paramotor yet offered in plans form, yet also the easiest to construct for the average builder. Utilizing a strong yet simple frame, standard paragliding harness, and a modified Kawasaki motorcycle engine, it is designed to be easily constructed using common hand tools (except for certain parts we plan to offer in the future as a partial kit).

Click here or scroll down to the bottom for the latest updates

The CAD model on the computer screen, and in the flesh, after the first test flight.

Design goals:

• Sufficient power for large/heavy pilots (a lightweight version for small pilots using the Radne Raket engine is also planned).

• Low hook-in points for good weight shift and easy forward launches

• High seat makes it easier to stand up after strapping in, and provides increased safety in the event of a hard landing

• No-weld construction eliminates brittle welds cracking and also simplifies replacement of damaged parts

• Inflight restart without heavy electric starter or battery

• Uses standard paragliding harness which can be removed for free flying

• Small wheels for easier moving around the field

• Easy disassembly to a size suitable for UPS shipping

For general information about paramotoring, check out my Connecticut Paramotoring Page.

Update 9/28/06:

Sorry for the lack of updates... I spent a good part of the spring battling problems with the modified bike exhaust; the mounting method required by its shape led to repeated vibration induced cracks. Finally a gave up and scrapped the entire pipe, replacing it with an entirely different pipe originally designed for racing kart applications. So far so good; the new mounting is far superior, and I immediately noticed an improvement in the engine's performance and throttle response.

Unfortunately, at the recent Connecticut Yankee PPG Boogie earlier this month, I left the motor attached to the wing and a gust of wind dragged it for some distance across the field when I wasn't looking. The damage isn't too severe, but it will take some time to repair, especially as I'll take the opportunity to make some design changes that I had in mind anyway, but weren't important enough to disassemble the machine to incorporate.

Update 1/23/06:

Another unseasonably warm winter day, more flying after some minor tweaks. I'm starting to really like this machine!
Click here for a short video clip of the ParaFan in flight.

Update 12/24/05:

Unseasonably warm weather in New England allowed more test flights yesterday and today. The harness problems are solved and the new exhaust is holding up well. I'm getting more and more comfortable with it each time I fly it (every machine is different). Today I flew alongside another pilot who weighs the same as me, flying the exact same wing; his motor is an Airfer Bimax (Airfer's tandem machine) which weighs about 10# more than the ParaFan. My rate of climb was equal to his, which shows just how powerful this Kawasaki engine is!

An early test flight. A low pass, and approaching to land.

Hang checking the ParaFan at the Connecticut PPG Boogie. Note the comfortable semireclined seat position.

Salvaging a crooked forward launch.

For more info about the ParaFan project email:

About the designer: Dana Hague holds a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Syracuse University, has worked as a Design Engineer in the aerospace, marine, and automation industries since 1981, and has been flying airplanes since 1976 and paramotors since 2001.