I agree with Steve. As an example, the Russia AC-5 sold very well because
it had a good price and decent performance. It has about 70% of the L/D of
ASH 26 E, but was about 40% of the price, and 30+ pilots found that very
attractive. Unfortunately, it's not available new now, and the
manufacturer's intentions aren't known.

L/D is somewhat overrated as Bob K and others point out, especially for a
motorglider. A Russia pilot might have to use his engine more often than I
do in my ASH 26, but what's an extra 10-15 minutes of engine, 5 or 6 times
a year? Nothing really, but it sure can expand your soaring options.


I can attest to Eric's statement about the ability of the Russia 5M to
expand your soaring options. While it seems to me the LS-4 is a great
glider, I bought a 5M this last spring for roughly the amount of money that
would get me an LS-4. However, the 5M allowed me to fly twice the hours of
my previous high hour season because I could fly from an airport 10 minutes
from my house as opposed to 2 or 2.5 hours from home. For me, the increased
number of hours greatly makes up for the relatively small performance
reduction because I feel I am making more rapid progression in my quest to
be a soaring pilot.

Tim