On Tuesday, October 15, 2013 5:29:01 PM UTC-4, Seattle wrote:
I'm in the market for a standard class or 15 meter flapped ship. This is my first ship, and I doubt I want to deal with 18 m of wings.



An example would be a Discus 2 vs ASW 27. Currently most of my flight goals are simple: get as high up, and far out as possible. Speed is nice, but I'm doubtful I'll be comfortable in a competition for many seasons.



All other things being equal, which is the better type (flapped or non-flapped) for staying up a long time and, eventually, cross country flights?



Thanks!

I don't think resale value has been mentioned. If you value money like me you should stick to S-H, ASW,or LS. (I hope my many LAK friends will forgive me!).I had to quit 10 years ago but owned a couple dozen gliders (some flapped, most not) and raced them several thousand hours. My fav was LS-8. Close second was Discus (I owned 4 Disci, one A, two B's, and a 2.) My fav flapped was ASW-20. I flew but never owned a 27 and can't say enough good about it. I hope you have 50 years of soaring fun to look forward to as I did at your level. Ed Byars