On Feb 7, 11:50 am, Frank wrote:
I'm curious what others are using for inter-thermal cruise speeds for
modern 15m (and 18m I guess) gliders like the Ventus 2bx, Ventus 2cx,
ASW-27, ASG-29, Diana 2, etc (add models as necessary).

Here in the U.S. we have been moving toward cruise speeds much lower
than would normally be dictated by using straight McReady settings,
but how low is too low?

I've also been flying a V2bx & V2cxt in Condor a lot, and cruise
speeds there are all over the map, from 90kt to 125kt (fully
ballasted) in the same race/weather conditions, with varying results.

Any thoughts?

TIA,

Frank (TA)

Frank,

In the west I have found the opposite to be true. I have found most
are flying at MC to 5 knots faster than would be dictated under
classical assumptions. The biggest change has been to try and
minimize time circling as much as possible by flying energy bands.

A great text:

Competing in Gliders - Winning With Your Mind
Authors: Leo and Ricky Brigliadori

the book has an excellent chapter on speeds under different
conditions. The only time to fly less than MC is if you have to cross
large gaps were there is not likely to find lift.

MC is always based on the "expected next climb". Also during setting
MC it is critical to use the real number, not what someone sees on the
vario or even the averager. I use the average thermal value in
WinPilot to give me a real number while on task.