Self-launch v Sustainer

On Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 2:17:47 PM UTC-6, Duster wrote:
Retired now and looking to purchase a motorized glider; weighing the pros and cons of self-launchers v sustainers. Two-placer is a priority, as I would like to take my wife. Single place acceptable as long as I can keep her happy sightseeing. We plan on extensive travelling, some to both established and unestablished (i.e., w/o tugs avail) soaring areas (esp. ridge/mountain/wave). Is the weight penalty the chief difference? Engine reliability? Maintenance? Minimum 18m? Some of you may recommend getting some first-hand experience at a commercial operation; where would that be?

Any feedback appreciated, even if just to eliminate models to stay away from.
Mike

Watching the Stemme assembly video made me curious:
Are most Stemme owners simply hangaring their aircraft at their favorite soaring site and flying them to their second favorite? The complexity of the trailer, hoists and assembly tools would lead me to believe so.
BTW, does anybody have any feedback on flying differences between the S10 and S12?
Gene