Lak-12

I bought mine (sn6229) with less than 50hrs in February. I imported it
from a neighbouring country where the gliding club had folded about
three years ago. The glider was in good condition with excellent
equipment (including dittel radio, LX5000 computer and MH oxygen). It
came with a factory trailer for the equivalent of $17 000 at the time
of purchase.

I have flown the glider now for 40 hours with the longest flight being
250 km. I had ~70 hours total when I bought it - with the best glider
that I had flown at the time of my conversion being an ASK 23.

I have scared myself a couple of times landing it, but have survived
two outlandings and a brush with a bush. Cross-wind landings are tough
due to the weathercocking of the tail. It will drop the wing unless
you go to negative flap on the rollout. I landed once with negative
flap - almost made it to the winch. I have had no problems with the
take-offs on the winch. The glider is very strong and can take all
sorts of abuse.

It is an absolute joy in the air. It climbs with the wooden gliders
and then runs with the racing ships. It can thermal very slow and
tight with positive flaps. The current South African handicap system
is being revised as the old open class ships can generally not outfly
15m racing ships in the strong conditions - and thus will not be
penalised on strong days. On weak days - the handicap will be heavier
for the open class ships. I have not filled her up yet - will try that
soon in the new year.

It is kept rigged in a hanger so the rigging is not a major issue. It
is obviously heavier to rig than a 15m ship - but getting the pin in
is not a major hassle. Just need to clean all the bits before getting
the wings out of the trailer - the help doesn't like holding the wings
whilst the owner fiddles with rags and grease.

Clinton
LAK 12 C2