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Old March 28th 08, 11:11 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
noel.wade
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Posts: 681
Default Expanded Glider Budget - Choices?

On Mar 28, 1:43*pm, Bruce wrote:
Wings and wheels has a 19m Kestrel on it for a lot less than this.


So - If what you want to do is fly XC - it might be an idea. Lots of performance
for little money means you can spend more on good instruments, and aerotow..

Just my 2c.


Bruce -

Thanks for the info. I've looked at the Kestrels a few times; but
have decided against anything over 15m span (unless the tips are
detachable and it can also be flown in 15m configuration). We've got
some small land-out areas and narrow runways in certain places, and I
wouldn't feel comfortable with an 18m wing (or bigger) in those
situations.

Also - my Russia has a 2-piece canopy. I don't hate it, but since I
operate out of a busy airport and I fly in amazingly beautiful
mountains, I really want a 1-piece canopy. Some people want a certain
wing-shape or fuselage shape - me I want a single-piece canopy. ;-)

Finally - my Russia has spoiled me. I can rig single-handed with
nothing but a blanket and a small wooden stool - and in 7 minutes! I
think I can bear rigging a normal 15m ship... But a heavy 19m wing
makes me wince just thinking about it! All my friends have
lightweight Apises and Libelles and DG-300s - they'd probably get a
bit gruff with me after awhile! ;-)

Thanks, though...

--Noel