On Jan 9, 2:42*am, "noel.wade" wrote:
Thanks Adam, but I'm not interested in a medium-performance metal
ship. *The Jantar Standard 2 is a fine first ship; but its not enough
of a performance jump from my Russia to be an appealing choice.

I believe that my budget affords ships that are newer and have better
performance - whether they're standard-class or flapped. *And I am
more interested in those options.

Appreciate it, though!

--Noel

Hi Noel,

"Medium-performance metal"? Ouch!

OK, so you know little about the Jantars. They were built from 1973
until the mid-90s. My "Standard 2" was made in 1981.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PZL_Bie...antar_Standard

I only mention it as a viable option to the planes you listed (first
and second generation 'glass). Of the planes I went to see, I would
have bought the either Mini-Nimbus or the LS-1f from a price/
performance point of view. Condition left a lot to be desired
howver...

Taking your priority list:
"Priorities are still 38:1 minimum L/D, good weak-
weather performance (low sink-rate and/or great climb rate),
maneuverable/responsive in the air, and relatively easy to rig."

How does a Jantar rate (IMO)?
It does 38:1, it rigs easily, it is responsive, it is fair in the
climb department.

In addition, it has a few desirable features like a very strong
construction (154kt VNE) and a tall landing gear. No wood/balsa cores
to rot, honest behavior in the air, very powerful top/bottom spoliers,
and a good safety record.

On the negative, I find the ailerons heavier than other single-seaters
(could be my seals) and not everyone like the seating arrangement. I
find it comfortable as a six footer.

The "2" version comes in far less than your budget. However the
Standard 3 version puts you into $25k and give you a proper canopy.

OK, I'll stop with the sales pitch. I totally understand if you want
to make a bigger jump. Don't we all?
/Adam