FLOW released the light version of their high EN-B the Freedom 2.
Awaiting the website to be updated, please find a picture of the Freedom 2 Light technical details.
In summary, Nitinol rods are used, shark nose, hybrid set up 3/2 line layout.
Launching this high EN-B is straightforward and super easy. The glider rises without any hard point even with no wind. I like the light materials when launching the glider in tight areas.
Talking about efficiency, I think the Freedom 2 light holds again that ‘aboriginal magic’ in its climbing abilities. That glider does climb impressively well.
After a while, flying it the sensations it gives felt like a butterfly in the air. Sooth, light, and climb effortlessly.
Performance:
The trim speed is slightly slower than the Rook 4 that was flying near. The glide seems also on par with the best B’s out there. Applying the first and second bars showed moderate pressure and a very good glide angle. The top speed seems around 12 km/h over trim.
Comfort:
The overall movements in the air felt tamer than the normal cloth Freedom 2. The Light version seems more taught and very comfortable to fly.
The C steering is as efficient as the good B’s in keeping the glider overhead.
Ears are stable and efficient. They reopen without pilot intervention, but smoothly and evenly.
The energy stored while doing wingovers is high.
Flow created a very interesting light construction high B. You can load it at the top to get slightly more forward dynamics, with no worries about the climb rate, which stays on top of the category.
Maybe I would have preferred a more simplified riser construction, but that's just a Tiny detail.
Climb is outstanding, and will surely keep you at cloud base! Glide is also excellent, and you can push the speed bar for faster glides if you wish while getting an efficient glide.
Comfortable, calm, and simple. That’s the Freedom 2 light.
Cheers,
Ziad
