As Eric's post suggests, Schleicher's Wankel engine provides a very
good solution for self-launching. Probably the best available if one
considers lack of vibration, power density, and range. If range isn't
so important, then electrics are promising- - assuming the batteries
behave themselves.

Like Eric, I have a Wankel also, but with less than 40 hours.
Reliability has been excellent. The engine, with its small form
factor, allows the fuselage boom to be slim as compared to most 2-
strokes.

The Wankel is a bit less fuel effecient than a piston engine. It makes
more waste heat too, and this means a longer cool down period is
required. Depending on OAT, I use as much as 3 to 5 minutes. However,
retracting the pylon most of the way, until the prop tip just drops
out of sight in the little rear view mirror, results in minimal drag
penalty when slowed up to work even weak lift during cool down. The
sound of the engine bay doors snapping shut is music to the ear, as it
signals the motor is tucked away and your a glider!

When Eric allowed as to how the motor would be shipped back for
anything internal, I would emphasize that most anything* that might go
wrong or require maintenance is external to the rotor and engine case
itself. Most all the accessory stuff is servicable here in the US.
There are some excellent mechanics who know the Wankel well, like Rex
Mayes at Williams, CA, and others I'm sure - - so it's not at all like
owning an orphan.

I appreciate things mechanical and am happy with my 26E. That said,
the Antares pylon extend and retract sequencing is just cool to watch,
and the ship's engineering is impressive.

*Exceptions I'm aware of have involved either starving the engine of
oil or not properly storing the engine for extended periods of non
use. Both situations are easy enough to avoid, and very expensive if
ignored.

bumper
MKIV & QV
Minden