The Advance STRAPLESS BI 4 is a highly specialized, ultralight EN-certified tandem pilot harness designed with extreme hike-and-fly pilots in mind. Focusing on minimal weight, compactness, and simplicity, this harness sacrifices built-in protection and extensive comfort features to meet the demands of mountaineering tandem flights where every gram counts.
A standout feature of the STRAPLESS BI 4 is its integrated reserve container positioned under the right leg pad, accompanied by a reserve handle and an inner container included in the package. Despite this added safety component, the harness weighs an astonishingly low 420 g for size M and 440 g for size L, making it one of the lightest tandem pilot harnesses available on the market. This design clearly caters to pilots who undertake arduous ascents carrying tandem gear and prioritize weight reduction above all.
Design and Certification
The harness covers two size ranges, medium (155–185 cm pilot height) and large (178–202 cm), with chest strap widths between approximately 39 and 42 cm, ensuring a tailored fit for a broad spectrum of tandem pilots. It meets the EN 1651:2018 + A1:2020 certification standards for structural safety with a maximum load of 120 kg, which attests to its robustness despite the minimalist design.
Materials and Construction
Constructed from high-strength yet lightweight materials, the STRAPLESS BI 4 uses D-Pro 4 mm straps rated at 13 kN for the main and leg straps, offering strength without bulk. The outer covering utilizes Skytex 32 fabric, known for a balanced combination of low weight and adequate durability. The seat area is reinforced with more durable nylon to withstand wear, and connections to the tandem spreaders are made via standard 5 mm metal carabiners. All these choices underline the harness’s focus on sustained mountain use while firmly remaining in the ultralight category.
Customer Feedback and Market Positioning
Usage Context and Target Audience
The STRAPLESS BI 4 is consistently positioned as an ultralight tool for advanced tandem pilots specializing in extreme hike & fly scenarios. Retailers stocking this harness are typically those serving mountain and cross-country focused pilots, indicating a clear, niche customer base. This harness is well-suited for pilots who prioritize radically decreased pack weight and size rather than comfort or extensive protection.
Strengths Valued by Users
- Extreme lightness and minimal pack volume: The inclusion of the integrated reserve container without pushing overall weight above 440 g is a key advantage highly praised by technical pilots.
- Simplicity and practicality: The harness features straightforward leg pads and a minimalist layout, which pilots appreciate for fast handling during mountain flights and repeated short flights.
- Integrated EN-certified reserve container: This design facilitates a clean, consolidated emergency system without additional bulky attachments, a feature respected by safety-conscious pilots despite the harness’s minimalist approach.
- Fit and sizing clarity: Defined size ranges with specific height and strap width guidance support predictable and comfortable seating geometry even within the minimalist frame.
Limitations and Trade-offs
- Absence of impact protection: Unlike some other models, the STRAPLESS BI 4 lacks any back or lower body protector or inflatable airbags. This trade-off is acceptable mainly to experienced pilots flying in controlled terrain conditions but is a notable drawback for many recreational or commercial users.
- Minimal comfort: Its string-style leg pads and absence of cushioning make it less comfortable for protracted tandem flights or commercial tandem operations with frequent long-duration rides.
- Niche specialization: The harness is not intended as a general-purpose tandem harness and may be too limiting or uncompromising for everyday commercial use or pilots who prioritize passive safety and comfort.
User Satisfaction by Segment
Experienced hike-and-fly tandem pilots are likely to regard the STRAPLESS BI 4 very favorably for meeting their demanding weight and packability goals. Professionals involved in adventure tandem operations that require lightweight gear to reach remote sites may find it appealing as a specialized option. Conversely, classic commercial tandem pilots and new ultralight enthusiasts without strong mountaineering demands may find that the lack of protection and comfort limits its utility.
Package and Recommendations
The harness package includes two Maillon Rapide connectors, four O-rings, the reserve handle and inner container, a storage bag, and a getting-started booklet, enabling quick integration with lightweight reserve parachutes and tandem spreaders. Recommended companions from Advance include the SQR Light 2 reserve, the solo STRAPLESS 4 harness, and lightweight tandem spreaders—promoting modular and weight-conscious setup possibilities for serious alpine pilots.
Conclusion
In summary, the Advance STRAPLESS BI 4 tandem harness excels as an ultralight, minimalist flight solution tailored for expert tandem hike-and-fly pilots who accept reduced passive safety and comfort in exchange for significant weight savings and compactness. It fills a unique role within the paragliding equipment ecosystem, but its specialized nature makes it unsuitable for pilots seeking an everyday, comfortable, and protective tandem harness.
For those interested in further details or to explore additional products, please visit the manufacturer's website. To order high-quality paragliding equipment, including the STRAPLESS BI 4, consider using Paragliding.me, a trusted source for pilot gear.