Sifow Gliders

     

We are at the beginning of an era where at last designers are focusing on fun and affordability rather than just pure L/D.  All of the gliders below are commercially available today, offer fantastic value compared with a new 'German supership' and naturally have less than 15 metres of span!  Let me know if I have missed any, the list is growing longer all the time!

 

The Russian built AC-4c, which is a development of the fixed wheel AC-4 a and b models (ME7 in the UK). Has performance in between a K6E and a Libelle. Auto connect, no gel, big cockpit and easy to rig. Costs about one and a half times a 30 year old first generation glider. There are about 100 AC4's in the world at present icluding the self launching AC5-M models. The AC4-c is now type certified in the UK.  Unfortunately it would appear they are no longer in production, but there is an active yahoo user group.

The L33 Solo, all metal 'world class' entrant that in effect lost out because it was too well put together! Most expensive of the world class gliders now being produced, but clearly very strong. Made by Blanik. US owners club web site l33assoc. Stop press...L33 found on Isle of Man!

The infamous PW-5, winner of the world class design competition and ironically not being produced at this time. Pod and boom design makes it easy to spot in flight. Reminded me of a 33:1 K8 when I flew it (which is meant as a compliment), suffers mainly due to lack of penetration, but climbs outstandingly well. The PW5 is now back in production alongside the two seater spin-off the PW6.

The 12m Silent. Not part of the world class programme (it is a flapped machine), but it fits in the FAI ultra-light category. Performance is 30:1 plus, but the interior is a little minimalist!

No UK distributor at present. Has an electric self-launch option available, but that's not Sifow stuff. Wing profile is not copied from the Discus, Oh no. Great website; www.alisport.com

Sparrowhawk.  New US carbon fibre ultralight glider, 36 foot span and decent performance.  Maiden flight in January 2002.  This picture goes back two years when it was just a clay model in a car park!  

Apis WR - new ultralight glider.  13m and 38-1 which is pretty impressive.  15m version also being made commercially, but I vote for the 13m any day!  Just racked up 5 ultralight world records.  Proof that SIFOW is taking over the world!  
TST-3 Alpin TM, made in the Czech Republic. 13.8 M span and is actually a motor glider. Wood and composite construction and very competitive pricing. Website is www.test.infoline.cz. Advertised in the USA and I know one is heading for Australia in kit form.
The Exel, a motorglider and from France ;-) so at first glance not a prime candidate for Sifow-dom.  However I love it!  Basically a 13.7m motorised plastic K6 with a permanent engine.  None of that 'lose 1000 ft whilst you get it out' rubbish.  I want one.  Web site is www.alpaero.com check it out.
Just getting interested in Gliding (at an advanced age) and found the site, which appeals to me. (I also like old motorbikes).Have you checked out the new (ish) Aero AL-12 "ultralight" sailplane?   

Okay, it uses modern materials, but 13m span, car portable, rigs in 40 minutes by one person and currently quoting about 20,000 Euros new!   Does this qualify? Paul (Surita).

 

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