Although I'm a purist, I agree with Eric that the effect overall is
beneficial for soaring. However, if you buy used first and second
generation equipment, you will likely spend an equal or greater time
maintaining your equipment to a high standard than actually soaring.


Only if you fly less than 10 hours a year.

The required engine/propeller maintenance (change the plugs &
re-torque the prop bolts) on my DG-400 can be done in 1 hour.
Additional time depends upon what breaks. As the engine is only run
10-15 hours a year things don't have a tendency to wear out much.

It's about a 50/50 split between self-launching pilots I've met that can
soar effectively and have no clue.


Come to Richland some time. I can't over exaggerate the convenience of
noticing the cu building in mid-morning and leaving work at lunch to
go play for the rest of the day.

Tom Seim
Richland, WA