On Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at 4:36:21 PM UTC-5, Gerry Simpson wrote:
I am very interested in purchasing one or the other and having difficulty weighing the merits each of because of no direct experience with either. I would like to have some advice concerning reliability, resale values, performance and build quality. Can I compare apples and apples with these two?

If you want to fly an ASG29E on the east coast it will do fine but please don't think the sustainer will be useful when you go out west. You will not be able to climb when the density altitude is 9,500 feet (last year at ELY).. As long as you are aware of limitations you will be happy. I chose ASH as I wanted to climb over mountains. The ASG-29 is a wonderful glider you will not regret.

Check which glider will give you higher climb rate. I would go with the one that climbs better. Just picture a situation where you find yourself low over a field and you start your engine. The direction home is over some questionable terrain so if you are at 1500 AGL you will not just go home. You need to climb at least as high as necessary to give you a good glide to next landing spot in case the engine fails. You always need to be prepared for the worst. So a glider that climbs faster will make your life easier. Of course if you are over flat lands with farming fields you will be in a better situation as you can go home lower.

Enjoy whatever you choose.