After test flying the EVO Sprint ,the TRIBE came and I flew
it in different conditions ,to get an idea about what’s behind that concept.
It is a simple 4 liner, just like the Sprint Evo.
Launching the glider doesn’t require any special technique.
After some time spent on the DELTA, UP XC2, Sprint Evo and
the Mentor 2, I was quite relaxed flying the TRIBE. It resembles the XC2 and
the DELTA in comfort, and accessibility, but the Tribe is a bit more
maneuverable only inside tight cores. It feels like you can stop the glider
inside the thermal and turn on a dime.
Where the DELTA has a longer brake response, the XC2 and the
TRIBE is a bit shorter to feel.
It is not a super agile glider, but ok, a bit less than the
Mentor 2.You can turn the glider very flat, and can bank it easily when
lowering the brakes.
The brake travel is a bit longer than the Mentor 2, which is
more direct to input, but when the TRIBE settle in a turn the radius is even
shorter then the Mentor 2.
Flying the Mentor 2 and the Tribe in the same conditions
reveals a much more relaxed ride under the TRIBE, which is an EN-C.
When entering the thermals the TRIBE pitches back a bit,
before entering, much like the DELTA.
Big ears are stable with a bit span moving but usable easily
at full bar.
The glide is similar to the UP XC2, and the glider is slower
at trim than a Mentor 2 at the same loadings.
Using the accelerator is smooth and at first bar the glider
gain some 4 km and have a good glide. At second bar the glide deteriorate a bit
comparing to Mentor 2.
The TRIBE has an efficient climb rate, and it is nice to be
able to core those small thermals in slow motion.
Accurate landings are a delight as you can slow the glider
for small landing areas.
Conclusion: GIN made an easy glider in the EN-C category.
With its brilliant climb rate and superb handling, those looking for those
characteristics will cherish it.
EN-B pilots looking to upgrade will find in the TRIBE a soft
comfortable ride especially if they were on a hot EN-B .
https://picasaweb.google.com/Ziad.bassil/GINTRIBE
https://picasaweb.google.com/Ziad.bassil/GINTRIBE
