NIviuk Artik R 2 size 23
I have already flown all Artik series, from the first one to this year's 2025 model, and now I have the Artik R 2, the new release two liner EN-C glider from Niviuk.
In this review, I will describe the glider and highlight the differences between the Artik R1 and R2, as well as the Artik 7 P, a hybrid released in 2025.
The Artik R2 construction and details are flawless, just like Niviuk's latest models. With a very nice manufacturing process, it looks clean, like a Swiss watch. Or should I say like a Spanish Andalusian Flamenco :-) To stay close to the origin ;-)
The glider invites you to fly it, just by looking at it. The outer bag and the small details are elegant.
The A-R2 has an aspect ratio of 6.5, and even in no wind, it requires a steady but smooth pull if you lay it properly. In a 15 km/h wind, the launch is also smooth, but you feel that the Artik R2 doesn’t rise as a block; it needs a controllable but easy and smooth touch to get that structure above your head, especially if the breeze at the take isn’t steady. It stays within the C class in launch control.
The structure is different from the first Artik R version. There has been a high amount of work inside that glider, and it feels that way. It feels more compact, but in like three pieces. Let me explain: It doesn’t feel like one whole block, like some stiff, high-end C gliders. It feels more like three stiff parts working together.
The take off is immediate at 92 all up on the size 23, which has a range of 75-95 all up.
First, the brake travel is short and a bit firm. The A-R1 had longer brakes. The A-R 2 has shorter ones, which are direct but have a performance radius. I think it is pretty logical to make such a turn if you are going to use that glider in XC. Otherwise, you can get the A-7 P, which has slightly more dynamic and joyful characteristics, as well as quicker turns. Saying that the A-R 2 has a precise brake and good authority for the pilot, a bit better than the Artik R-1, especially in strong air. You can turn it with 10-15 cm in all conditions. However, lowering a bit to 20-25 is doable, but a bit harder under pressure.
Climb rate: I think the best feature of the Artik R-2 is its climb rate. I think it's brilliant. In weak, and in strong, the A-R2 shoots quickly upward! In my C comparison, I think the rate of the climb would be at the top Cs of
Today's Gliders.
Stability: In strong air, the old AR-1 structure moves within itself. The new A-R 2 shows a significant improvement over the first version. While it still has some minor movements, it is more taut than the previous version.
In turbulent and intense conditions, the A-R 2 is a different beast from the first version. It is a step up in feeling like positively flying in a higher class without the workload.
Glide: We did some long glides with a Photon of the same size and load. Perhaps the A-R2 has a 0.25 km/h lower trim speed, but at full bar, it is as fast as, or possibly 0.5 km/h faster than, the Photon. The glide at trim and top speed is within the top 5 of the C category.
While pushing the speed bar, which has moderate pressure, the B handles are efficient, not hard to control, have good pressure, and are easy to use overall.
My C comparison will be shortly updated for small details.
Conclusion: More compact than the A-R1, better coordinated handling for performance gain in a turn. Relatively easy/moderate for a 6.5 AR glider. Has much top-end speed. Easier to fly than a few high-end Cs.
