Katana Vs. Velocity

[fasterisbest 0]

Hello,

I am downsizing from a Katana 120. I was originally planning on going to the Katana 107, however, I am considering downsizing to the Velocity 111. I have never flown a V-Lo before so I'm not sure how it flies compared to the Katana. I am 150 lbs without gear. Will I be loading the V-Lo enough? Is it a similar transition to the V-Lo? Does any one have any suggestions?

Thanks

[PhreeZone 20]

Loading a Velo 111 at 1.5 is pretty pointless. The effects of crossbracing does not really provide benifits until you reach the 1.9-2.0+ range. The pack volume on the Velo is much larger also so you have that to deal with too.

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[ianmdrennan 2]

As someone who is a similar weight to you, I think you'd hate the velo 111. It'll feel like a dog.

Based on your current canopy selection I think you'll FAR enjoy the KA107 more and then the next step after the KA 107 would likely be a VE-96 (not knowing jump #'s or coaching I can't say when either of those would be, but that would probably be the most fun choice).

Blues,
Ian

Performance Designs Factory Team

[fasterisbest 0]

Thanks for your input

[ianmdrennan 2]

It's a pleasure. Oh, and I realized I didn't actually address how they fly in comparision. From a characteristic point of view - similar but also differently (not helpful I know). Both have long dives. The KA opens a little nicer and the front riser pressure is a LOT lighter. The KA is more fun to fly around on the toggles than the same size VE. The VE is faster. Interestingly enough even with the differences I didn't find the 107 KA I flew much differently (besides altitudes) than did my VE-90 which is why I say 'similar' in flight characteristics. Each one does things a little differently (sometimes better) but neither feel so far removed from one another that the skills don't translate well.

I find the KA more fun at the light loadings (I've flown the 89 and the 107 and love the 107). At higher loadings I prefer the VE 96, 90 and 84.

For your loading the 107 will be much more fun and a perfect canopy for getting you ready for a smaller VE (IMO).

Blues,
Ian

Performance Designs Factory Team

[FeFe 0]

i totally agree with the above comments - i would go for 107 for 100-200 jumos and then transition to smaller (96 or 90) velo

[DrewEckhardt 0]

Quote

Hello,

I am downsizing from a Katana 120. I was originally planning on going to the Katana 107, however, I am considering downsizing to the Velocity 111. I have never flown a V-Lo before so I'm not sure how it flies compared to the Katana. I am 150 lbs without gear. Will I be loading the V-Lo enough? Is it a similar transition to the V-Lo? Does any one have any suggestions?

Put a few hundred jumps more on your Katana 120, take some canopy control classes, and learn how to fly it.