"1953 saw the rebirth of interest in the gyroplane with the invention of Dr. Igor Bensen's patented "Gyrocopter." This two-bladed rotorcraft used a teetering hub bar and rotorhead to equalize the lift from opposing sides of the rotor disc. By using locally-available materials the home builder was able to keep the construction cost down, and he could work on the aircraft as his time and budget would permit. Factory-packed material kits were also available; assembly time on either version often ran into the 150-200 hour range. Amateur and professional builders have probably copied the Bensen Gyrocopter more than any other aircraft throughout the history of aviation. " ~ www.aircommand.com
Gyrocopters aren't that uncommon, you don't need a very high rpm to lift a light person. You do need some arm strength if you're going to do it manually though....
Normally you would tow it up and autorotate down with a low pitch angle. A few types can jump start (literally), but you would need an engine for that. (Or you could jump off a cliff.)
Before getting towed up in this thing though I'd consider installing a seatbelt.....and take out a life insurance policy.....
