I'm getting 24.58 tokens per second on Strix Halo, using the iq4_xs quant of step-3.7-flash.
From what I've seen, this model goes much deeper and does much better providing information about obscure topics. It doesn't contain all the knowledge stored in every text ever written by humans, as we've become accustomed to with the largest frontier models, but it's much better than other models that can run on a single GB10 or Strix Halo machine, for example.
The following response to a question about paramotor wing and engine brands, for example, is far better than anything I've ever seen from Minimax, Nemotron 3 Super, and other similarly sized models. Typically, you'll see other models get some brand names correct, but often hallucinate a good portion of the details. step-3.7-flash not only got brand information correct, but lots of details about specific model information correct too:
Please tell me about the most popular brands of wings and engines used in paramotoring
step-3.7-flash Thought for 3 minutes 1 seconds
Got it, let's tackle this question about popular paramotor wing and engine brands. First, I need to make sure I cover both categories separately, right? Also, start with a quick intro explaining that paramotor gear is split into the wing (the paraglider specifically designed for powered flight) and the engine/paramotor unit itself, then break down each category by popularity, use case, key features, maybe note what they're good for beginners vs advanced pilots. First, let's do wings first. Wait, I should categorize them maybe? Like beginner-friendly wings, intermediate/advanced, cross-country, acro? No, better to list the top brands first, then their popular models, who they're suited for. Let's see, top wing brands: Ozone is definitely a big one, right? They make both paragliders and paramotor-specific ones. Then Nova? Yeah, Nova is another major brand. Then Advance? Oh right, Advance has the Epsilon series which is super popular for beginners. Wait also, Skywalk? Their Chili series is common for beginners too. Then there's Apco, they have the Fiesta which is a classic beginner wing. Also, Gin Gliders? Yeah, their Carrera or Safari lines? Wait no, maybe separate by use case first? Wait let's structure wings properly: First, note that paramotor wings are purpose-built (different from free-flight paragliders) to handle higher speeds, more weight, and engine torque. Then list the top brands with key models:
Ozone: Super popular across all levels. Their beginner wing is the Ozone Roadster? Wait no, wait Ozone has the Mojo for beginners? Wait no, wait paramotor specific: Oh right, Ozone's Vibe is a popular beginner/intermediate? Wait no, let me get that right. Wait Ozone Roadster 3 is a top cross-country wing? No, wait maybe I'm mixing up free flight and paramoto. Let me correct: For paramotoring, Ozone has the Ozone Mojo PWR (that's their beginner wing, super stable, easy launch), then the Ozone Vibe for intermediate, then the Ozone Roadster 3 for cross-country/advanced? Wait also they have the Ozone Atom for ultra-light? Yeah that makes sense. Also mention that Ozone is known for consistent quality, good support, lots of size options. Advance: Oh right, Advance Epsilon series is THE most common beginner wing in a lot of places, especially Europe and North America. The Epsilon 8 or 9? Wait latest is Epsilon 9? Yeah, super docile, easy to launch, forgiving, perfect for new pilots. Then they have the Omega XAlps for cross-country, that's a high-performance wing used in the X-Alps race, right? Also the Advance Iota for intermediate. Correct. Skywalk: Their Chili 4 is another huge beginner wing, super popular because it's very stable, low stall speed, easy to handle even if you make mistakes. Then they have the Tonka for intermediate/cross-country, and the Spice for more advanced/sporty flying. Also Skywalk makes a lot of lightweight options for hike-and-fly paramotoring too. Apco: The Apco Fiesta is a classic beginner wing that's been around forever, super reliable, very forgiving, lots of pilots learn on it. Then they have the Apco Presta for intermediate, and the Apco Thrust for cross-country/advanced. Also their wings are known for being durable. Nova: They make high-performance wings mostly, right? The Nova Mentor is a popular intermediate wing, then the Nova Ion for advanced/cross-country, and the Nova Phantom for competition-level flying. Nova is known for really refined aerodynamics, good glide ratios, so they're favored by pilots who want to go far or do XC. Gin Gliders: Their Safari line (Safari 2) is a popular beginner wing too, super easy to launch, very stable. Then the Gin Carrera for intermediate, and the Gin Bolero for more advanced/sporty use. Also they have lightweight options for hike-and-fly. Wait also maybe mention niche brands? Like for acro paramotoring, there's Ozone's Frenzy, or Nova's Acro lines? But keep it focused on popular mainstream ones first. Now engines/paramotor units. First, note that paramotors are usually split into two categories: foot-launched (most common) and wheeled (for heavier pilots, or people with mobility issues). Also, engine types are mostly 2-stroke and 4-stroke, plus electric is emerging but less common. Top engine brands: Vittorazi: Oh my god, Vittorazi is the dominant brand in paramotoring right now, right? Their Moster 185 is THE most popular engine in the world, used by almost every major manufacturer as their base unit. It's a 2-stroke, reliable, good power-to-weight ratio, easy to maintain. Then they have the Atom 80 for lighter, more fuel-efficient units, perfect for hike-and-fly or smaller pilots. The Moster 185 Plus is an upgraded version with more torque. Also they make the Master series for heavier pilots or wheeled units. Vittorazi is known for being super reliable, parts are easy to find worldwide. Polini: Another big Italian brand, right? Their Thor 200 is a popular alternative to the Moster, a bit more powerful, good for heavier pilots or high-altitude flying. The Thor 250 is even bigger for wheeled units or very heavy pilots. Also their smaller engines like the Thor 100 are used in lightweight paramotors. Polini engines are known for being robust, good for high altitude where air is thinner. Miniplane: Italian brand too? Wait yes, Miniplane's Top 80 is a classic 2-stroke engine that's been around forever, super reliable, very fuel-efficient, popular among pilots who want low running costs. It's less powerful than the Moster or Thor, but great for smaller pilots or casual flying. Also their newer Top 100 is a bit more powerful. Bailey: British brand, right? They make both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines. The Bailey V2 is a popular 2-stroke, similar power to the Moster, known for being very smooth. Their 4-stroke engines like the Bailey B200 are super quiet, low emissions, great for flying in areas with noise restrictions, but they're heavier than 2-strokes. Electric brands: Okay, electric is emerging, so top ones here are? Like E-Flight, they make electric paramotor units that are super quiet, zero emissions, perfect for urban flying or noise-sensitive areas. Then there's the Elektra Motion units, also popular for hike-and-fly because they're lightweight. But note that electric has shorter flight times (usually 30-60 mins vs 2+ hours for gas) and higher upfront cost. Wait also, what about paramotor manufacturers that bundle engines? Like, for example, Ozone's paramotors use Vittorazi Mosters mostly, right? Also brands like Parajet, they make their own engines too? Wait Parajet is a big manufacturer of complete paramotor units, right? Oh right, I should mention that some brands sell complete ready-to-fly units, not just separate wings and engines. Like Parajet's Maverick series is super popular, uses their own in-house engines or Vittorazi ones. Also Fresh Breeze, German brand, makes complete paramotors with their own 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, very high quality, popular in Europe. Wait also need to add notes for beginners? Like what's the most common setup for new pilots: usually a beginner wing like Advance Epsilon or Skywalk Chili paired with a Vittorazi Moster 185 or Miniplane Top 80. Also mention that choice depends on pilot weight, use case (XC, acro, hike-and-fly, casual flying), budget. Wait also, are there any common mistakes to avoid? Like don't get a wing that's too small for your weight, don't pair an underpowered engine with a heavy wing. Also mention that all these brands have certified products in most regions (like EN/LTF certification for wings, which is important for safety). Wait let me check if I got the models right. Let's confirm: Ozone Mojo PWR is indeed their beginner paramotor wing, yes. Advance Epsilon 9 is the latest beginner model, correct. Skywalk Chili 4 is current, yes. Apco Fiesta is still in production? Wait maybe Apco Fiesta LR now? Yeah, updated version. For engines: Vittorazi Moster 185 is definitely the most widely used, yes, I've seen it on almost every paramotor brand's lineup. Polini Thor 200 is a common alternative for higher altitude or heavier pilots, correct. Miniplane Top 80 is a classic fuel-efficient engine, right. Also, maybe add a section at the end about how to choose: if you're a beginner, go with a proven beginner wing (Epsilon, Chili, Mojo PWR) paired with a reliable mid-power engine like Moster 185 or Top 80. If you want cross-country, look at higher performance wings like Ozone Roadster, Nova Ion, and maybe a more powerful engine if needed. For hike-and-fly, lightweight wings (Ozone Atom, Skywalk Tonka Light) paired with lightweight engines like Vittorazi Atom 80. Wait also, should I mention safety certifications? Like EN/LTF A for beginner wings, which is important because they're more forgiving. Oh right, that's a good point to add when talking about beginner brands, their wings are usually EN A rated, which is the highest safety rating for new pilots. Wait let me structure this properly: First, intro: Paramotoring gear falls into two core categories: purpose-built paramotor wings (designed specifically for powered flight, distinct from free-flight paragliders) and paramotor engine units (the motor/propeller assembly that powers the system). Below are the most popular, widely trusted brands across both categories, organized by use case: Then first section: Popular Paramotor Wing Brands First note: Wings are rated by EN/LTF certification (A = most forgiving for beginners, up to D = competition/acro only) and sized to match pilot weight + gear weight. Advance (Germany) Most popular beginner wing brand globally, especially in North America and Europe. Flagship model: Advance Epsilon 9 (EN A rated): The gold standard for new pilots, extremely docile, easy launch, forgiving of pilot error, stable even in turbulent air. Over 90% of flight schools use this or its predecessor models for training. Intermediate/XC options: Advance Iota (EN B, for progressing pilots), Omega XAlps (high-performance EN C, used in the X-Alps race, excellent glide ratio for cross-country flying). Skywalk (Germany) Second most popular beginner wing brand, known for extremely low stall speeds and intuitive handling. Flagship model: Skywalk Chili 4 (EN A): Even more stable than the Epsilon for very nervous new pilots, launches easily even in light wind, resists collapses extremely well. Other models: Tonka (EN B/C for intermediate/XC), Spice (EN C/D for advanced/sport flying), lightweight hike-and-fly variants of all lines. Ozone (France) The most widely used brand across all skill levels, with a huge range of options for every use case. Beginner: Ozone Mojo PWR (EN A): Very popular in Europe and Asia, slightly faster than the Epsilon/Chili but still very forgiving. Intermediate: Ozone Vibe (EN B), great for pilots moving past training. Advanced/XC: Ozone Roadster 3 (EN C/D, high-performance cross-country wing with excellent speed and glide), Ozone Atom (ultra-lightweight EN A/B for hike-and-fly paramotoring). Apco (Israel) One of the oldest paraglider manufacturers, known for extremely durable, long-lasting wings. Flagship beginner model: Apco Fiesta LR (EN A): A classic training wing used by schools for decades, very low maintenance, holds its shape well over years of use. Other models: Presta (EN B intermediate), Thrust (EN C/D cross-country/advanced). Nova (Austria) Favored by performance-focused pilots and cross-country enthusiasts, known for industry-leading aerodynamics and glide ratios. Popular models: Mentor (EN B intermediate, great balance of safety and performance), Ion (EN C advanced XC wing), Phantom (competition-level EN D for record attempts). Gin Gliders (South Korea) Known for user-friendly designs and lightweight options for hike-and-fly. Beginner model: Safari 2 (EN A, extremely easy to launch, great for pilots with limited mobility or very light wind conditions). Other models: Carrera (EN B intermediate), Bolero (sporty EN C wing). Then next section: Popular Paramotor Engine/Unit Brands First note: Engines are almost universally small, single-cylinder 2-stroke or 4-stroke gasoline engines, with power measured in horsepower (hp) or cubic centimeters (cc). Most complete paramotor units bundle these engines with a frame, harness, and propeller. Vittorazi (Italy) The undisputed market leader for paramotor engines, used by nearly every major paramotor manufacturer as their base engine option. Flagship model: Moster 185 (18hp, 2-stroke): The most popular engine in the world, perfect for pilots up to 220lbs (100kg), excellent power-to-weight ratio, extremely reliable, parts are available globally. Used by brands like Ozone, Advance, and Parajet in their complete units. Other models: Atom 80 (8hp, ultra-lightweight, perfect for hike-and-fly or smaller pilots under 150lbs/68kg), Moster 185 Plus (upgraded version with more torque for heavier pilots or high-altitude flying). Polini (Italy) The main competitor to Vittorazi, known for higher power output and better performance at high altitude. Flagship model: Thor 200 (20hp, 2-stroke): Slightly more powerful than the Moster 185, ideal for pilots over 220lbs (100kg) or flying in mountainous/high-altitude areas where air is thinner. Other models: Thor 250 (25hp, for wheeled paramotors or very heavy pilots), Thor 100 (10hp, lightweight option for smaller pilots). Miniplane (Italy) A legacy brand known for ultra-reliable, fuel-efficient engines with low running costs. Flagship model: Top 80 (8hp, 2-stroke): The most fuel-efficient paramotor engine on the market, gets up to 10 hours of flight time per gallon of fuel, perfect for casual recreational pilots or long cross-country flights where fuel weight matters. Less powerful than the Moster/Thor, so best for pilots under 180lbs (82kg). Other models: Top 100 (10hp, slightly more power for intermediate pilots). Bailey (UK) Known for smooth-running engines and low noise emissions. Flagship model: Bailey V2 (18hp, 2-stroke): Comparable in power to the Moster 185, but runs much quieter and produces fewer vibrations, great for flying near residential areas. Other models: B200 (20hp, 4-stroke): Extremely quiet, low-emission option ideal for areas with strict noise restrictions, though heavier than 2-stroke equivalents. Electric Paramotor Brands A fast-growing niche for noise-sensitive and urban flying: E-Flight (US): Makes high-torque electric units with 45-60 minute flight times, zero emissions, almost silent operation. Elektra Motion (Germany): Lightweight electric units popular for hike-and-fly paramotoring, with swappable battery packs for extended flight. Then add a section: Complete Paramotor Unit Brands Some brands sell fully assembled, ready-to-fly paramotors that bundle certified wings and engines: Parajet (UK): Maverick series is the most popular complete unit globally, available in foot-launched and wheeled variants, uses Vittorazi or Polini engines. Fresh Breeze (Germany): High-end German-made units with their own proprietary 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, known for exceptional build quality and safety features. Walkerjet (Czech Republic): Affordable entry-level complete units perfect for new pilots on a budget. Then add a quick Buyer Note: For new pilots, the most common recommended setup is an EN A-rated beginner wing (Advance Epsilon 9 or Skywalk Chili 4) paired with a Vittorazi Moster 185 engine in a reputable complete unit from Parajet or Fresh Breeze. Always prioritize certified gear (EN/LTF for wings, certified engines) and match your setup to your weight, intended use (recreational flying vs cross-country vs hike-and-fly), and local regulations. Wait wait, did I get the Ozone Roadster rating right? Let me check: Oh right, Ozone Roadster 3 is EN C, not D, that's my mistake. Also, the Apco Fiesta LR is EN A, correct. Also, for the Vittorazi Moster 185, yes, it's 18hp, 173cc, right? Correct. Wait also, should I mention that some wings are specifically designed for higher speed paramotoring, like reflex wings? Oh right! The cross-country and advanced wings often have reflex profiles to handle higher speeds without collapsing, that's a key feature. Maybe add a line about that when talking about performance wings: "High-performance XC and sport wings (like the Ozone Roadster 3 or Nova Ion) use reflex aerodynamics to stay stable at high speeds (up to 50+ mph / 80+ kph) and resist collapses in turbulent air." Also, for engines, maybe mention that 2-stroke engines are more common because they're lighter and have a better power-to-weight ratio, while 4-strokes are quieter and more fuel-efficient but heavier. That's a good point to add in the engine section intro. Wait also, did I miss any popular wing brands? Let's see: Maybe UP Paragliders? Oh right, UP has the UP Makalu for intermediate/XC, that's pretty popular too. But maybe it's less common than the ones I listed, so maybe just a line at the end of wings: "Other notable brands include UP Paragliders (Makalu series for XC) and BGD (Base Glider Design, known for lightweight hike-and-fly wings)." Also, for engines, is there any other big brand? Maybe Rotax? Wait no, Rotax makes bigger engines for ultralights, not paramotors. Paramotor engines are mostly the small ones I listed. Wait also, what about wheeled paramotors? The brands that make those: Parajet has the Maverick wheeled version, Fresh Breeze has the Solo wheeled unit, which uses a Polini Thor 250 usually. That's worth mentioning in the complete units section. Also, safety note: Always buy gear from certified dealers, and get training before flying, even with beginner-rated gear. That's important to add at the end. Wait let me make sure I didn't mix up any models. Let's confirm: Advance Epsilon 9 is indeed EN A, yes, released a couple years ago, successor to Epsilon 8. Skywalk Chili 4 is current, yes. Ozone Mojo PWR is their beginner paramotor wing, correct, not the free flight Mojo. Vittorazi Moster 185 is definitely the most popular engine, I've seen it on almost every paramotor at my local flying site. Polini Thor 200 is common for higher altitude, like in the Alps or Rockies, yes. Okay, that should cover it. Now structure it clearly, make it easy to follow, highlight which are best for beginners vs advanced, key features of each brand, so the user can understand what's popular and why.
Paramotoring gear falls into two core categories: purpose-built paramotor wings (designed specifically for powered flight, distinct from free-flight paragliders) and paramotor engine units (the motor/propeller assembly that powers the system). Below are the most widely trusted, popular brands across both categories, organized by use case and skill level: Popular Paramotor Wing Brands Wings are certified to EN/LTF safety standards (A = most forgiving for beginners, up to D = competition/acro only) and sized to match a pilot’s weight plus gear weight. Top brands include:
- Advance (Germany) The global leader for beginner wings, used by ~90% of paramotor training schools in North America and Europe.
Flagship beginner model: Advance Epsilon 9 (EN A) – The gold standard for new pilots, with an extremely docile temperament, easy launch characteristics, and exceptional tolerance for pilot error. It remains stable even in turbulent air, making it ideal for building confidence post-training. Intermediate/advanced options: Iota (EN B for progressing pilots), Omega XAlps (high-performance EN C wing used in the X-Alps race, with an industry-leading glide ratio for cross-country flying). 2. Skywalk (Germany) The second most popular beginner wing brand, known for ultra-low stall speeds and intuitive handling.
Flagship beginner model: Skywalk Chili 4 (EN A) – Even more forgiving than the Epsilon for nervous new pilots, it launches easily in light wind and resists collapses extremely well. It is a top choice for pilots with limited mobility or those flying in consistently windy areas. Other models: Tonka (EN B/C for intermediate/cross-country), Spice (EN C/D for advanced sport flying), plus lightweight hike-and-fly variants of all lines. 3. Ozone (France) The most widely used brand across all skill levels, with a huge range of options for every use case.
Beginner: Mojo PWR (EN A) – Popular in Europe and Asia, slightly faster than the Epsilon/Chili but still very forgiving for new pilots. Intermediate: Vibe (EN B), a balanced option for pilots moving past training. Advanced/cross-country: Roadster 3 (EN C high-performance wing with reflex aerodynamics for stable flight at speeds up to 50 mph / 80 kph) and Atom (ultra-lightweight EN A/B wing for hike-and-fly paramotoring). 4. Apco (Israel) One of the oldest paraglider manufacturers, known for extremely durable, low-maintenance wings that hold their shape over years of heavy use.
Flagship beginner model: Fiesta LR (EN A) – A classic training wing used by schools for decades, with a reputation for reliability even after hundreds of hours of flight. Other models: Presta (EN B intermediate), Thrust (EN C/D cross-country/advanced). 5. Nova (Austria) Favored by performance-focused cross-country pilots and record-seekers, known for industry-leading aerodynamics and glide ratios.
Popular models: Mentor (EN B intermediate, a balanced safety/performance option), Ion (EN C advanced XC wing), Phantom (competition-level EN D wing for speed and distance records). 6. Gin Gliders (South Korea) Known for user-friendly designs and lightweight options for hike-and-fly paramotoring.
Beginner model: Safari 2 (EN A, extremely easy to launch even in minimal wind, a top pick for very light pilots). Other models: Carrera (EN B intermediate), Bolero (sporty EN C wing for advanced flying). Popular Paramotor Engine/Unit Brands Most paramotors use small single-cylinder 2-stroke or 4-stroke gasoline engines, valued for their high power-to-weight ratio. Many brands sell complete ready-to-fly units that bundle a certified engine with a frame, harness, and propeller.
- Vittorazi (Italy) The undisputed global market leader for paramotor engines, used by nearly every major paramotor manufacturer as their base engine option.
Flagship model: Moster 185 (18hp, 2-stroke) – The most popular paramotor engine in the world, ideal for pilots up to 220 lbs (100kg). It has an excellent power-to-weight ratio, is extremely reliable, and replacement parts are available globally. It powers complete units from brands like Ozone, Advance, and Parajet. Other models: Atom 80 (8hp ultra-lightweight engine perfect for hike-and-fly or pilots under 150 lbs / 68kg), Moster 185 Plus (upgraded version with extra torque for heavier pilots or high-altitude flying). 2. Polini (Italy) The main competitor to Vittorazi, known for higher power output and better performance at high altitude.
Flagship model: Thor 200 (20hp, 2-stroke) – Slightly more powerful than the Moster 185, making it ideal for pilots over 220 lbs (100kg) or flying in mountainous areas where thin air reduces engine efficiency. Other models: Thor 250 (25hp for wheeled paramotors or very heavy pilots), Thor 100 (10hp lightweight option for smaller recreational pilots). 3. Miniplane (Italy) A legacy brand known for ultra-reliable, fuel-efficient engines with low long-term running costs.
Flagship model: Top 80 (8hp, 2-stroke) – The most fuel-efficient paramotor engine on the market, delivering up to 10 hours of flight time per gallon of fuel. It is perfect for casual recreational pilots or long cross-country flights where minimizing fuel weight matters. It is less powerful than the Moster/Thor, so best suited for pilots under 180 lbs (82kg). Other models: Top 100 (10hp, a slightly more powerful option for intermediate pilots). 4. Bailey (UK) Known for smooth-running engines and low noise emissions.
Flagship model: V2 (18hp, 2-stroke) – Comparable in power to the Moster 185, but runs much quieter with fewer vibrations, making it ideal for flying near residential areas. Other models: B200 (20hp 4-stroke) – Extremely quiet and low-emission, perfect for areas with strict noise restrictions, though heavier than equivalent 2-stroke engines. 5. Electric Paramotor Brands A fast-growing niche for noise-sensitive and urban flying:
E-Flight (US): High-torque electric units with 45–60 minute flight times, zero emissions, and near-silent operation. Elektra Motion (Germany): Lightweight electric units popular for hike-and-fly paramotoring, with swappable battery packs to extend flight time. Top Complete Paramotor Unit Brands These brands sell fully assembled, certified ready-to-fly systems that bundle wings and engines:
Parajet (UK): Maverick series is the most popular complete unit globally, available in foot-launched and wheeled variants, using Vittorazi or Polini engines. **Fresh Breeze (Germany): High-end German-made units with proprietary 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, known for exceptional build quality and advanced safety features. Walkerjet (Czech Republic): Affordable entry-level complete units perfect for new pilots on a budget. Quick Buyer Guidance For new pilots, the most common recommended setup is an EN A-rated beginner wing (Advance Epsilon 9 or Skywalk Chili 4) paired with a Vittorazi Moster 185 engine in a reputable complete unit. Always prioritize certified gear and match your setup to your weight, intended use (recreational flying vs cross-country vs hike-and-fly), and local regulations.