AttentionLEcureuil wrote:
Hi,
I'd like to hear about the people who were able to compare the
performance of an LS-4 with an ASW-20 in weak, average and/or strong
conditions. Which climbs best? Which glides best? By what kind of
advantage (is one glider really better than the other, or just average?)
Overall, which is the best machine and is it a lot better or just slightly
better?
If one can point me out to some polar curves for both gliders, I'd be
very happy.
Thank you!

They are both fine gliders, but tHe USA handicap does list the ASW 20
with about 4% cross-country advantage over the LS4.

The ASW 20 has a steeper, slower landing approach, due to it's flaps,
and a softer ride in turbulent conditions, due to the more flexible
wings. Those are two reasons I chose the 20 when I had one in the 80s.

The ASW 20 B and C are preferable to the first model, as they have
automatic elevator hook up and a disk brake; the C is preferable unless
you really want the higher wing loading of the B model.

I wouldn't chose between the LS4 and the 20 based on performance, as
neither is at the top of it's FAI class anymore. In non-contest flying,
it will be difficult to see any difference. I'd make the choice on the
other qualities; primarily, I think the LS4 is an easier glider to fly,
so would be a better choice for a club or lower time pilot. If the pilot
is "experienced" then that isn't a factor, and he can choose based on
the other features, like the short landing capability, etc.

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Eric Greenwell
Washington State
USA