On Mar 8, 9:18*am, wrote:
My question is, if you forget about dollars per L/D, do
these type of gliders have enough performance to not cause frustration
in the beginner cross country pilot? *Another question is, would the
avg pilot be satisfied with these for a few years or would most really
get the itch to trade sooner?

I agree whole heartedly with Bob Whalen's post. There are so many
variables within the individual as well as where they fly. I have an
L33 (the one mentioned in Dave Rolley's reply) and have thoroughly
enjoyed owning and flying it. It is my first glider (purchased Nov
2001) and with it I learned to fly (motorless) cross country. It is
still a joy to fly; even on weak days.

Now I must admit that living and flying in Region 9 has made this ship
much more viable for cross country challenges. The peak season days
here make gold badge flights very possible. I've also taken it to two
sports class regionals and been very happy with the outcomes. Each
flight was a great learning experience for me. The CD had some
challenges fitting me in with much higher performance gliders, but the
tasking was always fair and allowed all of us to get the most out of
our ships.

While many folks focus on total kilometers flown, OLC has really
allowed the shortwing crowd to have a different outlet. With the
points handicapping, this is very much like a daily sports class
event. Finishing ahead of a DuoDiscus, ASW-27 or Genesis2 sure makes
it easier to put aside any kind of L/D envy. Being able to come in
ahead of pricy glass ships has certainly helped me stay very satisfied
with my little wing, metal, fixed gear ship. But then again, that's
just me. Your results may vary.

Horst
L33