On 31 Oct 2003 04:04:31 GMT, Andy Blackburn
wrote:

I'm 5'9', 180 lbs. and I find the S-H 'a' models way
too narrow - I had to twist my upper body sideways
to fit between the canopy rails. There is both a height
and width limit for these cockpits. For me it was width.

Also look out for the high 'ape factor' requirement
on S-H designs ('a' and 'b' models alike). I found
I had to loosen the shoulder straps to reach the instrument
panel - which was a problem with all the modern computer
equipment demanding knob-twisting. Others with longer
arms may not find this to be an issue. Some owners
have installed panel extensions to deal with this.

My advice: Don't buy a glider without at least sitting
in one first.

9B
Good advice.

re the ape factor. This is removed if you wear a back pack parachute
and sit on a very thin cushion. It really is comfortable and you can
reach the panel.

Some of us in Australia have modified the Ventus a seat pan to place
your backside further forward. You can actually cut it in half and
add 30mm and re-organise the front part. This helps if you are long in
the body and have short legs.

Mike Borgelt