On Friday, August 7, 2015 at 9:12:10 AM UTC-5, Hartley Falbaum wrote:
Is the Sparrowhawk handling suitable for a low time glider pilot who flies infrequently? How is pitch and roll sensitivity compared to say, a Discus B? One of our club members seems to have a big problem staying in position on tow. He does just OK in a K21. I need to know how to help him or conversely, suggest he do something else. I have 1-26 , 1-34, LS4, ASW20, ASW 27, DG808, and Discus CS experience.

Thanks in Advance

Hartley Falbaum CFIG, USA

Hello:
I can answer that question as I just had my first 3 flights in my Sparrowhawk. I too am a low time glider pilot with 40 hours, 105 flights. However, I do have considerable total time in very large airplanes. Most of my glider time is in the Grob 103 Twin II, but I have flown a Blanik L13,&23.

So on to the answer, I would say that they should not fly the Sparrowhawk until they can handle a more docile glider. It's a very responsive airplane, the roll rate is very fast, but the pitch is faster and will surprise you on take-off and tow. I think my lack of experience in single seat gliders is key here, and the combo of a C.G. hook and very light weight are big factors. At 60kts we climb out at 1000fpm, and the nose is pitched up a bit too high and the dash blocks the view of the towplane, so 65kts works much better.

I love how the Sparrowhawk handles, you really fell the bumps, and it can stay in a small thermal, plus it will fly very slow. If the thermals are broken up a bit, then using a "dolphin" technique works well to get to the next thermal. Also, it is very easy to land, I think because with the spoilers up the control rates slow down a bit. It lands just like a the Grob, 60 kts on final, tail first, but hold the stick back during roll out.

Its a fantastic airplane to fly and own, and I am very pleased I made the purchase, but its not a trainer glider. Feel free to contact me via phone if you wish, just let me know and we can set it up.
Mike T