"Charles Yeates" wrote in message
...
Frank

Doesn't have to be the LS-4b either. The 304 is another very worthy
candidate. Continuing the PW-5 as a sub-class might also have some
benefit.


New =
LS-4b @ 39,000 Euro
304 @ 40,000 Euro
Smyk @ 17,000 Euro

Why jump up the price of a "one class" ship?

Price, though a factor, is really moot as it can be ameliorated by
partnerships or club ownership. My club is shopping. Smyk is not on the
list. The primary reason is the lousy polar. I've watched PW-5 owners
struggle out here and it just does not cut it where winds in the lift band
are often 20kts or more on good days. East of the Mississippi river and
conditions for the Smyk would be much more favorable. A 40/1 world class
glider has additional appeal. It can also be flown competitively in other
classes in local and regional contests.

We looked very hard at it when they were 'giving' them away with the PW-6
for $11K, but it still wasn't appealing enough to tip the deal. However,
had we seen the PW-6 a few weeks earlier, we might gone for the pair.

Frank Whiteley