There is always a debate amongst Microlight (Ultralight in US speak) flyers as to whether ballistic chutes are more risky than taking your chances without. Stumbled across this video which makes a good argument against…

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1PX7G0u0yI&hl=en]

However, it is alleged the pilot in question had altered the chute installation so that the release for the chute was on the bar! Needless to say on takeoff (when the bar is fully forward)…

I still think they are a good backup.