"Tim Hanke" wrote in message
ups.com...
LAK has got to do something about the gear... it sure takes away from
the beautiful lines of the sailplane.

The problem with two seat sailplanes is that the main wheel in a tail
dragger configuration has to occupy the same location as the rear seat
occupants posterior. The options are to move the wheel dangerously aft so
the glider may tip onto the nose as it stops so a rarely used nosewheel is
needed (Duo Discus) or make the fuselage deeper to enclose the retracted
wheel. (Lark) or just go to a bicycle gear (Grob).

LAK has obviously met this challenge in their '20 by extending the wheel
forward as it lowers and moving it aft as it retracts. I'd say that's a
more elegant solution. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Bill Daniels