On Monday, February 26, 2018 at 4:19:26 PM UTC+1, wrote:
Hi Andy,

I've flown the Antares 18T and 29E in a few competitions and published a document about the glider, unfortunately in German only. But perhaps Google Translate works for you: https://www.segelflug.de/tests/Antares18/antares18.pdf

In general, the Antares 18 is the more responsive glider compared to ASG29E. The feel of the thermals is a bit better and it turns quicker due to the huge tail. It also handles high wing loads a bit better than the 29 - you only notice it when looking at the ASI. Out of the 18m ships, it is the most agile glider.

Performancewise, both ships are equal in the lower speed range (150km/h at 600kg). In mid- to high-speed ranges, the 29 is a bit better. With the Antares, my impression was that the 2nd negative flap setting is not optimal.. The flap settings of the 29 are very well adjusted and optimized for their respective speed range. Quite surprisingly, the Antares is rather sensitive to bugs and does not like rain that much.

The 29 is a bit less agile than the Antares 18, probably because of the quite small rudder. It has higher stick forces at high speeds than the Antares, but I kind of liked that. It also makes you feel high wing loadings a bit more than in the Antares.

There are other differences in construction, engine operation and ergonomic details, but that is a different topic than performance and handling.

Best regards
Christoph

Thanks Christoph!