On Mar 27, 6:00 pm, "noel.wade" wrote:
Hi All,

Back at the beginning of the year, I anticipated being able to upgrade
my glider. I bought my Russia AC-4a in 2007 on a very limited budget
and have thoroughly enjoyed its sprightly handling, easy rigging, and
climb capability. However, a big jump in my position at work has
given the the means to afford a better glider. Since my job also
means I may fly less often, I want a ship that I can stretch out with
more on longer glides (here in Seattle we get a lot of days with
3,000' - 4,000' cloudbases and only 2 - 3 knots of lift. I'm thinking
that 38:1 *measured* is the minimal L/D I'll be interested in).

Initially I was thinking I'd have a $25k - $30k limit and probably try
something with flaps (a la LS-3, Mini-Nimbus, Mosquito, DG-200, etc).
There was a long thread here where people provided some great advice.

Recently its begun looking like I may actually be able to afford a
$35k - $40k glider. This price-range opens up a few new doors
(ASW-20, perhaps a DG-202 or maybe DG-300, LS-4 mayyyybe, Pegasus, or
others?)... I was wondering if folks would be willing to tell me
their pick, and state why.

Priorities: I am interested in good ergonomics (the Apises and
DG-300's at our airfield make me envious), good/responsive handling,
good performance in weak weather, good visibility (one piece canopy),
and easy rigging (automatic hookups preferred - for safety as well as
rigging convenience).

Obviously PU or good Gel-Coat and a good trailer are important; but
what I'm after here are the inherent traits of the glider model you
suggest.

Thanks a bunch in advance!

--Noel

Buy something about $32K and save the rest to upgrade the panel. Most
in that price range will not have a current panel with GPS-Logger-
Integrated Vario and computer.

You will not be able to tell much performance difference in anything
in this price range and vintage.

Tim