First, I sincerely want to thank you all for all the insightful inputs.

I understand that as always, weight can be an issue and there are many things that can motivate us to stay fit. I'm actually 287 as of now, I've been at 210 not too long ago and my medical certificate reads 308lb. Things do change, and I'd like to keep flying regardless of my weight.

Even not knowing a darn thing about gliders, I knew that my 'performance' requirements and budget were probably way off. My budget is quite similar to that number though. I could stretch it slightly if interesting options weren't too far from that.

Bumper, the issue is burning that precious gas money at 8-14gph and the overall associated maintenance costs with an engine. I assume gliders are way more affordable in the long run compared to airplanes when you factor in maintenance and inspection costs. Airplane ownership is out for me, for now.

Bruce, awesome information. I'm glad you clarified the grand mistery of the 242lb seat restriction.
One of my main concerns was that by exceeding this restriction, the seat could possibly detach from the fuselage if load factor limits were exceeded. This makes much more sense now.
I understand the correlation between maximum gross and load factor limit tradeoffs.

Correct if I'm wrong folks, but assuming C&G is within limits and assuming I can reasonably fit in the bird, soloing in a two seater shouldn't be an issue as they'd likely have a minimum usefull load of at least 300lb.

Presuming I'm correct, I have two additional questions.

1) What's the likelihood of getting a dual sailplane within C&G limits, me being the sole occupant (300lb !) ?

2) Suggestions of sailplanes with roomy cockpits (single or dual) , minimum +5/-3 G (I find it reassuring), atleast 300lb of useful load, and preferably widely available. I'm curious enough to check all the birds that could possibly accomodate me within various price ranges. Budget is 20 or so though.