Sylvie Willis
Paramotors are small two-stroke internal combustion engines that burn a mixture of gasoline and oil. They typically consume 3.7 to 4.3 litres of fuel per hour, depending on factors such as paraglider efficiency, the weight of the unit and pilot, and weather conditions. The amount of fuel a paramotor can carry is limited by its weight, which affects its flying performance. Therefore, a wheeled paramotor can carry more fuel than a foot-launched one. The type of engine and wing also impact the range, with some trikes capable of over five hours of flight time. The choice of fuel also matters, with higher octane fuel burning more efficiently and performing better in high-performance engines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption | 3.7-4.3 litres per hour |
| Fuel type | Unleaded fuel with 2-stroke oil |
| Fuel storage | Two tanks (5 gallons and 2 gallons) |
| Fuel life | E10 unleaded lasts a week |
| Fuel efficiency | Depends on air temperature, wind speed, type of wings, choice of engine, and method of flying |
| Fuel tank capacity | 14.5 litres for foot-launched paramotor; 21 litres for Blackhawk Lowboy 3 |
| Engine type | 2-stroke or 4-stroke |
| Weight | Average of 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| Wing type | Paramotor wings with trimmers to adjust speed |
| Launch type | Foot launch or wheel launch |
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What You'll Learn
Paramotor fuel types: 2-stroke vs 4-stroke
The type of fuel used in a paramotor depends on the type of engine it has. Most paramotors use a 2-stroke engine, which requires a mixture of unleaded fuel and a special 2-stroke oil. The ratio of fuel to oil in this mixture varies depending on the engine and is usually specified in the user manual. For example, a ratio of 40:1 means 40 parts fuel to one part oil.
There are two types of 2-stroke engines: traditional carburettor type engines and fuel-injected engines. In a traditional carburettor engine, the air and fuel are combined in the carburettor, and the mixture is compressed and forced into the cylinder as the piston moves up and down. This type of engine is common in paramotors but struggles to adapt to changing temperatures, altitudes, and other environmental factors. Fuel-injected engines, on the other hand, are newer to paramotors and can optimise efficiency and fuel burn while bypassing the problems associated with traditional carburettor engines.
Some paramotors use a 4-stroke engine, which does not require the addition of oil to the fuel. Instead, oil is added to the engine and stored in the sump to lubricate the internals, similar to a car engine. 4-stroke engines can run on regular unleaded fuel straight from the pump, although some may require higher octane fuel.
The choice between a 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine depends on various factors, including the user's preference, the availability of fuel and oil mixtures, and the performance requirements of the paramotor. Additionally, the fuel consumption of a paramotor depends on factors such as climbing, descending, turning, and the use of speedbar during flight.
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Fuel efficiency: 2-stroke vs 4-stroke
The fuel efficiency of a paramotor depends on several factors, including the type of engine, the weight of the unit and pilot, weather conditions, and flight path.
2-stroke engines
Most paramotors use a basic 2-stroke engine, which works with regular unleaded fuel mixed with a special 2-stroke oil. The absence of a lubrication system in 2-stroke engines makes this oil mixture essential for operation. The fuel-to-oil ratio must be carefully calibrated to prevent engine overheating and seizure.
4-stroke engines
4-stroke engines, on the other hand, have their own lubrication system, so the oil is added to the engine and stored in the sump, eliminating the need to mix oil with the fuel. 4-stroke engines can run on regular unleaded fuel straight from the pump.
Fuel efficiency comparison
Fuel-injected 4-stroke engines have improved reliability, reduced emissions, and increased engine performance. They also offer better fuel efficiency, with some engines consuming as little as 2 litres of fuel per hour. In contrast, 2-stroke engines typically consume around 3.7 to 3.8 litres of fuel per hour.
However, 2-stroke engines are currently more popular among paramotor pilots due to their higher power-to-weight ratio and lighter weight. The development of 4-stroke engines for paramotors is still ongoing, and they may not see widespread adoption before the shift to electric paramotors.
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Fuel consumption: factors affecting it
The fuel consumption of a paramotor depends on several factors. Firstly, the type of engine and fuel used play a significant role. Two-stroke engines, which are commonly used in paramotors, require a mixture of unleaded fuel and a special two-stroke oil. The ratio of fuel to oil is critical, as an incorrect mixture can cause the engine to overheat and seize. Four-stroke engines, on the other hand, have their own lubrication system and can use regular unleaded fuel. Additionally, the octane rating of the fuel affects performance, with higher octane fuel burning more efficiently in high-performance engines.
The weight of the paramotor setup and the pilot's weight are also crucial factors. Heavier engines provide more thrust but consume more fuel. Similarly, the weight of the pilot determines the required wing size and thrust for launch, impacting fuel efficiency. Lighter setups are generally more fuel-efficient for covering long distances, while heavier setups provide more power and thrust.
Flight conditions, such as altitude, air temperature, and humidity, and wind speed, influence fuel consumption. Flying at higher altitudes or in strong winds increases fuel burn. Additionally, the design of the wing affects fuel efficiency. Some wings have better glide ratios, requiring less power and fuel to stay airborne, while others create more drag, increasing fuel consumption.
The flying style and manoeuvres performed also impact fuel efficiency. Frequent climbs and descents, turns, and the use of speedbars increase fuel consumption and reduce range. Maintaining a straight flight path at a constant altitude helps optimize fuel efficiency. Additionally, the choice of a foot-launched paramotor or a wheeled trike or quad setup affects fuel range due to differences in weight and fuel capacity.
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Fuel storage and degradation
When storing fuel for paramotors, it is essential to use approved containers designed for fuel storage. These containers should be made of materials that resist corrosion and have tight seals to prevent leaks and evaporation. Heat and moisture are detrimental to fuel quality, so containers should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Additionally, fuel stabilizers or additives can be used to maintain fuel quality and extend its shelf life.
For example, Fuel Ox® additives are designed to improve fuel system efficiency and reduce fuel-related issues. They address concerns such as stabilization, icing, sludge buildup, water contamination, microbial growth, and corrosion. Proper fuel storage and the use of additives help prevent fuel degradation and ensure optimal engine performance.
It is important to note that E10 unleaded fuel, which is a type of gasoline with a higher ethanol content, should be stored in an airtight container and used within a week. This is because ethanol is hygroscopic and can absorb water from the atmosphere, leading to potential starting issues.
Underground fuel storage is not recommended due to strict EPA requirements and high fines. Instead, above-ground containers like military surplus "Jerry-cans" can be used for small-scale storage. Regularly rotating the fuel supply by using the oldest fuel first and replacing it with fresh fuel is also essential to maintain fuel quality.
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Electric engines: pros and cons
Electric paramotors are becoming more common, but gas-powered paramotors still dominate the sport. Electric paramotors are slowly gaining popularity with both beginners and experienced pilots. Here is a list of pros and cons of electric engines:
Pros
Electric paramotors are environmentally friendly and do not produce the fumes that gas-powered engines do. They are also quieter on takeoff, and the weight is comparable to that of a gas-powered paramotor. Electric engines are also easier to maintain and more reliable than gas engines.
Cons
The duration of electric paramotor flights is limited by battery weight. They may also be too heavy for some pilots, and the thrust may be insufficient for larger pilots.
Other Considerations
Gas-powered paramotors have been the top choice for pilots since the first paramotor flight in the 1980s. They are light, powerful, high-revving, and easy to maintain. The choice between an electric and gas-powered paramotor depends on various factors, including the weight and preferences of the pilot, as well as the desired flight time and engine power.
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Frequently asked questions
Most paramotors use 2-stroke engines, which burn around 3.7 to 3.8 litres of fuel per hour. 4-stroke engines are more fuel-efficient, but provide less power. Paramotors with electric engines can fly for around 50 minutes.
2-stroke engines require a fuel-to-oil mix, with unleaded fuel and 2-stroke oil. 4-stroke engines can use regular unleaded fuel straight from the pump.
Air temperature, wind speed and direction, type of wings, choice of engine, and your method of flying all impact your overall flying time. For example, if you climb and descend a lot, your fuel consumption will increase.
