Asw20 vs Discus

On Sunday, 11 May 2014 21:44:07 UTC+3, wrote:
Hi,



I am looking for any advice as to which had a higher performance out of these two gliders. I realise it will be pretty similar as they have the same handicap, but anything you can tell me such as:

Strong vs weak conditions?

How well does each carry water?

Anything else you can offer.



I realise they are hard to compare as they are from different classes.



Thanks

RB

I've flown over 500 hrs both (Discus b/WL and ASW20 "A"). Performance is pretty much the same. If you fly a lot without water ballast, ASW goes better in strong conditions. Discus can be ballasted to 70kg more so that evens it out (fully ballasted ASW20 climbs better, though). Both suffer from rain and bugs. ASW is a bit more complex because of flaps, but it is nicer to fly and accelerates better, plus you can land it in tighter spot. With Discus you have to get used to thermalling with controls crossed (it requires counter-aileron when turning). Directional stability is better in Discus (more so with winglets), with ASW you have to be more sensitive with rudder. Both have roomy cockpits, back rest can be removed for long pilots.

Discus is much easier to rig, ASW has heavier wings and manual connections. *This is the only part where you notice the Discus is newer generation*. Original gelcoat is probably long gone in both of them. You can put jet engine to ASW, but on the other hand buy a used Turbo Discus.

I have had water system issues both with Discus (those leaking S-H valves....) and ASW (leaking bag). Minor things.

Both are very good gliders, but ASW gives you same performance little bit cheaper.