UP Kangri-X

UP Kangri -X 

The Kangri X is the light version of the UP Summit X I already reviewed earlier. 

Take off with the Kangri X is easy with that light cloth without any hard points. 

I flew the Kangri X with the Impress 4 harness at 95 all up. 

In the air, the brakes travel and response reminded me of its bigger sister the Trango X. As if the Kangri X has the same feel but a different aspect ratio. 

I enjoyed every thermal with those handling characteristics. The brakes have moderate pressure, with a linear feel, and are quite direct to steer the glider inside a thermal. For the educated pilot, the feedback comes slightly from the brakes and also from the risers. The Kangri X handling has the needed spices to make its pilot happy under it while coring.

The glide and climb seem similar to the Summit X. The comfort underneath the Kangri X is moderate for the high B category. It resembles the Maestro 2 feedback and is very close in agility. 

The C steering on that 2.5 liner B is as efficient as most 2.5 liners. While on the speed bar I could adjust most glider movements in moderate air. 

The speed over trim is around 15 km/h, and very usable.

Ears are easy to induce and stable.

Conclusion:

Coming from the classes above, the Kangri X is a pleasurable to-fly glider and especially not dull for the high B category.

Those spices in the brake feel are really nice to feel the air better and core every bubble swiftly. 

This glider is aimed at a large group from the high B category pilots to the C class pilots who want a glider with the same pleasurable information, with more comfort in turbulence as their C’s but still informs about what the air is doing, with a very nice guided handling in thermals.  

UP Kibo-X size S

UP Kibo - X  size S 

The Kibo-X is the new UP mid B glider, with a 2.5 line configuration. https://www.up-paragliders.com/en/products/paragliders/kibo-x

The Construction and details seem very similar to the Trango-X, Kangri-X, and Summit-X which seem very good.

Launching the Kibo-X while holding the inner A risers even in little wind, have a steady and homogenous rise with no hard point with a fluid normal canopy rise.

I flew the Kino-X size S ( 70-90) at 85 all up. The Kibo-X could be flown easily at mid-weight. I think it is best flown from 80 to 86 in all conditions. 

I flew the Kibo-X with the NK Arrow. 

Handling and agility: I had to length the brake lines by 5 cm to get the 10 cm gap before trailing edge contact. In that configuration, I would need around + 15 to 20 cm to steer the glider in thermals.

The brake pressure is moderate to slightly hard when lowering them. The turning abilities are quite nice with direct and immediate response from the glider. It can core tight thermals. 

Comfort: UP gliders have their own signature in terms of feedback. If you are a UP pilot, you know that feeling of feedback. The Trango-X and Kangri-X deliver a different flavor flying them with some roll movements that some pilots would look for. The Kibo-X inherits those same roll feel but for a B-class glider, they are less pronounced than the Kangri-X. Those movements on the KIbo-X are restricted to move in a small angle and the Kibo-X stays within those small angles above the pilot's head. Overall for a mid B, some pilots would cherish the roll, which is similar to a Tequila 4, and some would prefer a softer feel like on the Buzz Z7.   

Performance: The Kibo X plays in the same field as the mid-B’s regarding overall performance efficiency. The plus is the information coming from the glider and the handling that enhances your performance to core thermals. 

Ears are easy to make, stable, and quite efficient!  

Conclusion: The Kibo X will please many pilots looking for a mid-B with nice feedback with direct brake control while having a good level of performance for the intended class.   

 

UP Summit X S/M 75-100

UP Summit X   size S/M  75-100

The Summit X is the new high EN-B from UP.   A mix of Skytex and Dominico is used on this glider, with edelrid lines. 

The overall construction looks excellent.  

The shape of the nose is similar to its bigger sister the Trango-X as are the openings, risers, etc. It looks exactly like the Trango-X but with a lower aspect ratio.

Launching the Summit -X even in nil wind is easy, without any hard points.  In windy take-offs, The Summit X behaves quite calmly, no surging forward, and without any issues for the high B pilot.  Overall smooth to inflate.

I flew the Summit X with different loadings, to find that at 94..95 is optimum for that size. It flies well also at 92. No need to fly it near the max. The same goes for the Trango-X. 

Both are best flown 5-6 kg less than the top weight for overall performance and feel. 

At 94 all up, I felt that the Summit X was well loaded with a very high compact and homogenous feel! Despite the Aspect ratio of 5.87, the Summit X felt comfortable to fly!

 In the air the overall movements are moderate and quite nice under that Summit X. It felt just slightly more comfortable than the Maestro 2 in turbulence and needed slightly more pilot control than a Swift 6 for example. 

The brake pressure is moderate on the first 10-15 cm after the 10 cm gap, and I could steer the glider immediately in any thermal with a very nice linear feel, and excellent agility! 

The feedback comes from both risers and brakes in a dream blend! I think UP found the perfect handling recipe. The Summit X shares the very nice brake authority of its bigger sister the Trango-X. 

When encountering thermals, the Summit X gently pulls you inside a thermal! What a precious feel especially under a high B glider.  Flying through a moving airmass is a delight as the Summit X feels like wanting to catch the surrounding lifts!  The brakes give you a high authority of control with a glider that responds well to every pulled centimeter. A real delight to fly! 

I flew the Summit X next a totally brand new and loaded Swift 6 in thermals, transitions, and glide at speed, and for sure will update my B comparison for the needed details. Climbing in very weak air next to the reference  Swift 6 in that matter showed us that the Summit X will stay very competitive all the time. When thermals are slightly more powerful, the Summit X climbs impressively well matching the best ones in that category.  This climbing efficiency coupled with that beautiful behaving character of sliding through thermals enables the Summit X to be very competitive. 

Later we did lots of glides at trim and top speed.  The Summit X hands up, at 94 all up, has around 2 km faster trim speed than the loaded Swift 6!  The top speed is also 2 km/h over the Swift 6.   

I’m convinced that the glide at trim and at full speed resembles the new 3-liner C-class gliders!  It has indeed a very efficient glide at trim and at max speed. 

The C riser bar controls well the angle of the glider while on the bar with moderate pressure. 

Ears are stable, efficient, and a good way to lose altitude.  They reopen quickly. 

Conclusion:

UP was cooking a secret recipe underground without no one noticing their intentions!  :-) 

Their new creations have been released! The Trango X and now the Summit X. Both are born with the same genes, and targeted for the intended group of pilots.

I think, the overall feel and educational feedback for a high B,  are such a delight under Summit X. 

This overall package of performance, the pleasure of handling, climbing, and glide is impressive! 

So, in my personal view, I think Summit X joins the elite club of super high B’s!  

A must to test fly if you are looking into that class, and best flown at their optimum weight range. 

EN-C comparison UPDATE ( Alpina 3 MS,Alpina 3 S, Queen 2 MS, Sector S

EN-C comparison (Update) 

Easiest to manage in the category. 1 being most friendly user. (Most comfortable to fly for the average "C" pilot): After many flights, some changes occurred…Constant feedback… 

1- Alpina 2 = Advance Sigma 9 = Mac Elan =Nexus = Volt 2 SM = Carrera plus M = Sigma 10 25 = Mac Para Elan 2, size 26 = Alpina 3 MS 

2- ADVANCE Sigma 8 25 = Artik 4 25 = Ozone Delta 3 ML  = Ozone Delta 2 MS

3- BGD Lynx M = Nova Sector S = Alpina 3 S 

4- GRADIENT Aspen 4 26 = Triple seven Queen = Cure M = Supair Taska = Mac Para Elan 2 size 24 = Colt 2 S 

5- NIVIUK Artic 3 = AD Volt 1 SM = BGD Tala M = Cayenne 4 = SOL Lotus one M = Queen 2 MS

6- GRADIENT Aspen 5 26 =U-Turn Passion SM = Carrera = Sky Argos = Skywalk Spice XS 

7- MacPara Marvel 25 = UP Trango XC 2 = Cayenne 5 XS = UP Trango X-race 

8- NOVA Triton 2 S 

9- Trango XC 3 SM 

Handling in rough air: (The one that you can turn even in rough air) loaded at +80 % of their weight range and plus! 

1- Gradient Aspen 4 = Volt 2 SM = Alpina 2 = Sigma 9 = Artik 4 25 = Cayenne 5 XS = Ozone Delta 3 ML = Sigma 10 25 = BGD Lynx M = Alpina 3 MS = Alpina 3 S = Sector S = Queen 2 MS 

2- Nova Factor 2 = Cure M = Artic 3 = Cayenne 4 S = Ozone Delta 2 = Triple seven Queen = Carrera= Nexus = Elan= Triton 2 S = Carrera plus M at 105! =UP Trango X-race SM =Skywalk Spice XS = Mac Para Elan 2 ,26 and 24 

3- U-Turn Passion SM= BGD Tala M = Argos = Aspen 5 26 = SOL Lotus one M = Supair Taska = Aspen 6 24 = Cayenne 4 S

4- OZONE Alpina 1 M = UP Trango XC 2 S/M = Trango XC 3 SM 

5- UP Summit XC2 M = Marvel 25 = Delta 1 M = AD Volt 1 SM 

6- Artic 3 Race = Colt 2 S

Performance in calm air at trim speed (no activity): 

1- UP Trango X-race SM 

2- Cayenne 5 XS = Trango XC 3 = Ozone Delta 3 ML, MS  = Skywalk Spice XS = Advance Sigma 10 25 = Alpina 3 MS = Queen 2 MS

3- BGD Lynx M = Triton 2 S = Aspen 6 24 = Alpina 3 S = Sector S

4-Triple seven Queen M = Cure M = Nexus = Supair Taska S = Mac Para Elan 2, 26 and 24 

5- NIVIUK Artic 3 Race = Volt 2 SM = BGD Tala = Alpina 2 = Carrera = Aspen 5 26 = SOL Lotus one M= Artik 4 25 = Carrera plus M 

6- NIVIUK Artic 3 = U-Turn Passion S/M =UP Trango XC 2 S/M = Ozone Delta 2 = Elan = Argos = Colt 2 S = Cayenne 4 S

7- Nova factor 2 S = Marvel 25 = Aspen 4 26= Sigma 9 

8- Advance Sigma 8 25 & Ozone Alpina M & Ozone Delta M = AD Volt SM 

9- U-Cross S 

10- UP Summit XC2 

Performance at "trim speed" in head wind glides and ‘Average’ turbulent conditions: 

1- UP Trango X-race SM = Advance Sigma 10 25 = Queen 2 MS = Alpina 3 MS 

2-Triton 2 S = SOL Lotus one = Cayenne 5 XS = Trango XC 3 = Ozone Delta 3 = Skywalk Spice XS  = Aspen 6 24 = Alpina 3 S = Sector S

3- BGD Lynx M 

4-Triple seven Queen M = Cure M = Nexus = Supair Taska S = Mac Para Elan2, 26 and 24 

5- Alpina 2 = Aspen 5 = Artik 4 25 = Carrera Plus M 

7- Carrera = Volt 2 SM 

8- NIVIUK Artic 3 Race = U-Turn Passion SM = UP Trango XC 2 = Ozone Delta 2 = Elan 1 = Argos = Colt 2 S

9- Skywalk Cayenne 4 = NIVIUK Artic 3 =AD Volt SM = BGD Tala = Sigma 9 

Performance at " bar " in headwind glides and sudden lifts : 

1- Ozone Delta 3 ML = UP trango X-race SM = Advance Sigma 10 25 = Delta 3 MS = Queen 2 MS = Alpina 3 MS  = Sector S

2- Aspen 6 24 = Alpina 3 S 

3- Triple Seven Queen M =Trango XC 3 SM= Cayenne 5 XS = Skywalk Spice XS

4- BGD Lynx M = Triton 2 S

5- Alpina 2 = Aspen 5 = SOL Lotus one M = Cure M = Carrera plus M =Mac Para Elan 2 26 and 24 

6- Carrera = Elan = UP Trango XC 2 S/M = Ozone Delta 2 = Volt 2 SM = Nexus Supair Taska S 

7- NIVIUK Artic 3 Race = U-Turn Passion SM = BGD Tala= Sigma 9 =Argos = Artik 4 25 = Colt 2 S

8- NIVIUK Artic 3 = Aspen 4 =Cayenne 4 S= AD Volt SM 

9- Nova factor 2 S 

Climb rate in weak but “difficult” conditions < 0.5 m/s (not homogeneous thermals ,low in the inversion) : All loaded at +80 % of their weight range. 

1- SOL Lotus one M = Cayenne 5 XS = Volt 2 SM = Carrera plus M 

2- U-Turn Passion S/M = Ozone Delta 2 ML = Elan 1 26 = Cure M = Advance Sigma 10 25  = Aspen 6 24 = BGD Lynx M = Alpina 3 MS

3- UP Trango XC 2 S/M= Delta 2 SM = Alpina 2 = Carrera M = Alpina 3 S = Queen 2 MS 

4- NIVIUK Artic 3 = Marvel 25 = Aspen 4 = Skywalk Cayenne 4 S = BGD Tala= Carrera S= Argos = Triton 2 S = Sigma 9 = Artik 4 25 = Trango XC 3 SM =Mac Para Elan 2 26 and 24 = Sector S 

5- Artic 3 Race = AD Volt SM = Ozone Delta 3 ML 

6- Triple seven Queen = Nexus = Colt 2 S 

Climb rate in punchy thermal conditions : 

1-UP Trango XC 3 SM = Cayenne 5 XS = Cure M = Ozone Delta 3 ML = UP Trango X-race SM = Skywalk Spice XS =Advance Sigma 10 25 = Aspen 6 24 = BGD Lynx M = Sector S = Alpina 3 MS = Queen 2 MS

2-UP Trango XC 2 S/M = Ozone Delta 2 = Alpina 2 = Carrera M & S= Elan = Sol Lotus One =Volt 2 SM= Carrera plus M = Supair Taska S = Mac Para Elan 2 26 and 24 = Alpina 3 S 

3-U-Turn Passion S/M = Cayenne 4 = Marvel 25 = Artic 3 Race = BGD Tala M= Argos = Triton 2 S = Colt 2 S 

4-Artic 3 normal = Aspen 4= AD Volt SM = Triple seven Queen M = Sigma 9 = Artik 4 25 = Nexus 

Brake description : 

-Ozone Alpina 3 S: light to medium pressure, precise, very agile, turn on command, a delight to fly.

-Ozone Alpina 3 MS: Quite light to moderate brake pressure, nice agility, precise, really easy to thermal, short response.

-777 Queen 2 MS: Medium pressure overall, precise, direct, agile, very good agility inside the core. It keeps inside the thermal easily.

-Nova Sector S: Medium pressure until 15 cm, then slightly harder. It's precise, agile, need weight shift in turbulent small cores for shorter radius to keep it on track.

-UP Trango X-race SM: Moderate , super linear, super precise, exquisite, agile in moderate conditions. Needs slightly more implication in rough air for turning ability. 

-BGD Lynx M. Moderate length and pressure , precise,agile linear, direct. A pleasure to fly!

-Gradient Aspen 6 24. Short travel, moderate pressure, fairly agile, linear, needs active pilot.

-Supair Taska S : Moderate, agile, linear, precise agile in moderate conditions. In turbulent air, it need application to turn. 

-Skywalk Spice XS: Moderate to light, linear, precise, good agility in moderate conditions. 

-Mac para Elan 2 26 (@101 all up) Moderate, linear , fairly agile.

-Mac Para Elan 2 ,24 (@90 all up) Light to moderate, linear, precise, agile, Nice handling)

-Advance Sigma 10 25 @ 96 all up. Linear, precise, agile, moderate pressure. 

-Ozone Delta 3 ML: Moderate to hard, good agility in all conditions. 

-Nexus :Moderate to hard, moderate agility 

-UP Trango XC 3: Moderate pressure, linear, precise, agile is homogeneous conditions. 

-Cure M : Agile, direct, precise, linear. 

-Volt 2 SM : agile, precise, crispy and linear. 

- Cayenne 5 XS: Sharp and very direct, precise, agile even in turbulent conditions, short and efficient! 

- Artik 4 25 : Moderate brake travel, linear , precise, agile . 

- Sol Lotus, Short, moderate to hard, precise, linear. 

-Colt 2 S moderate to light, long, not precise, average to poor agility in turbulent air  

- Triton 2 S, short, direct, linear, precise, average pressure. 

- Aspen 5 26 , moderate brake travel, moderate to agile in turns, light. 

- Sigma 9 Direct. 

- Elan linear and direct, smooth. 

- Argos Linear light to moderate and direct 

- Triple seven Queen M (relatively short and linear, precise, medium pressure,like D2 SM ) 

- Alpina 2 SM (soft,linear,longer than Delta 2 SM ,agile moderate to light pressure) 

- Carrera S (shorter than Alpina SM,linear, precise, agile, moderate pressure) 

- Ozone Delta 2 SM, ML (linear, short ,precise ,agile with moderate pressure) 

- BGD Tala M (Long and linear, fairly precise in turbulent conditions, moderate to light pressure, forgiving) 

- Nova factor 2 S (very direct and precise) 

- NIVIUK Artic 3 (Linear, precise, agile) 

- Skywalk Cayenne 4 S (Moderate pressure, Agile linear, forgiving, smooth!!) 

- Gradient Aspen 4 26 (Agile,moderate,linear,forgiving,smooth) 

- U-Cross S Direct and agile if the conditions are smooth, and a bit less in turbulent ,the glider must settle first) 

- U-turn Passion SM ,light to moderate, linear ,agile. 

- UP Trango Xc2 S/M (medium pressure, precise, fairly agile, short) 

- Marvel 25 (precise, moderate pressure, needs a bit of work in turbulent conditions) 

- Ozone Alpina M (A bit longer than Factor 2 and a bit softer , more precise and shorter than the Delta M and much better turning behavior) 10- 

- AD Volt SM ( Needs a bit time to enter the turn in moving conditions) - Niviuk Artic 3 Race 

- Sigma 8 25 (very close in handling ,a bit long but still agile) 

- UP Summit XC2 M (Long average agility to good) 

- Ozone delta M (Soft, long and average precision)

‘NEW’ 

(Most efficient C glider in overall XC flying ) IMHO 

(1 being best) . 

The one i personally feel that will gave me the most efficient XC for overall use. (ratio of comfort efficiency) 

1-a -Alpina 3 MS  *Best ratio of (comfort and high performance) *

1-b -UP Trango X-race SM 

2- Cayenne 5 XS = Spice = Delta 3 ML & MS = Advance Sigma 10 25 = Aspen 6-24 = Queen 2 MS 

3-BGD Lynx M = Alpina 3 S = Sector S

4-Alpina 2 SM = Cure M    

5-Triton 2 S = Sol Lotus One = Trango XC 3 = Carrera plus 

6-Aspen 5 26 ( very efficient at second bar ! ) 

7- Ozone Delta 2 = Up Trango XC2 = U-turn Passion = Carrera M & S = Elan = Artik 4 25 = Volt 2 SM = Nexus . 

8- BGD Tala M = Niviuk Artic 3, A3 Race, Skywalk Cayenne 4, Mac Para Marvel, Colt 2 S, Ozone Alpina M, AD Volt SM, Triple seven Queen M , Argos, Sigma 9 (Easy and solid) 

Faster at second bar ( if equally loaded ) : 

1- Queen M = Advance Sigma 10, 25 = Mac Para Elan 2, 26 and 24 =Queen 2 MS = Sector S

2- Ozone Delta 3 ML = Artic 3 Race

3- Passion = Cayenne 4 = Aspen 4 = Argos = BGD Lynx M - 

4- Cure M = Delta 2 = Sigma 8 = Alpina 2 = Sigma 9 = Aspen 5 = Cayenne 5 XS = Trango XC 3 SM= Triton 2 S = Sol Lotus One = Artik 4 25 = UP Trango X-race SM = Skywalk Spice XS = Alpina 3 S 

5- Volt 2 SM = Trango XC2 = BGD Tala = Carrera = Elan = Supair Taska S 

Big ears efficiency: 

- Ozone Alpina 3 MS and S : ( stable, efficient, reopen on input)

- 777 Queen 2 MS : moderate stability, they usually flap, shake a bit sometimes, but reopen quickly

- Nova Sector S (stable, efficient ,reopen without intervention )

- Up Trango XC 3 ( stable and ok for a 7:0 aspect ratio glider! ) 

- Cayenne 5 XS ( small -2m/s and stable, little big and un-stable on this size ) 

-Advance Sigma 10 ,25 (with outer A’s little stable, flap a bit, efficient with bar, reopen with a slight brake pull ) With outer B’s (stable efficient with bar, reopen quickly) 

- Cure M (stable ears, efficient)

- Lynx M ( Stable, efficient) 

- Mac Para Elan 2 26 and 24 ( efficient ,stable, needs pilot input to re-open) 

- Ozone Delta 3 ML (easy, moderate efficiency, stable, doesn’t reopen by themselves) 

- Volt 2 SM (stable ears, efficient) 

- UP Trango X-race SM ( doable with A’s and outer B’s. Stable, moderate efficiency, reopen by themselves) 

- Aspen 4 26 (very efficient in big ears) = Nova Factor 2 =Cayenne 4 S = 

- Ozone Delta 2 = BGD Tala = Queen = Alpina 2 = Carrera (stable and efficient)= Sigma 9 =Elan =Argos = Sol Lotus One= Artik 4 25 

Artic 3 = Artic 3 Race = U-Turn Passion SM =Triton 2 S (stable moderate ears ) =UP Trango XC 2 S/M= AD Volt SM = Aspen 5 26 . 

- Marvel 25 (moderate use of big ears-moves a bit)

- BGD Lynx M ( Stable ears ) reopen by themselves.

The Triton 2 S requires much more energy from the pilot to control it in heavy conditions. 

The Lotus one has also some impressive performance, but to place it wherever you want in turbulent conditions requires also some finer inputs. 

The Aspen 5 is really some great glider at second bar! It resembles the Triton 2 S in full speed glide! …To extract the full performance it needs an active piloting for sure and the way to turn it quickly in turbulent cores needs a little time. 

The Cayenne 5 has the edge in surges into thermals, and the superb sharp and direct brake travel! 

In weak conditions, it requires a bit more to handle than the Alpina 2 but it’s a very efficient C glider. If only the ears were a bit more efficient and stable … 

The Trango XC 3 is demanding to fly regarding the surrounding C’s. Of course it’s very efficient in cutting and climbing. The glide is good also but it needs the most energy to handle in this specific category! 

The BGD Cure surprises by the ratio comfort/aspect ratio. The overall package of performance, accessibility and pleasurable feel is very nice. 

The AD Volt 2 SM is a very comfortable glider to fly with a very nice brake authority. The Climb rate is ‘great ! 

The Elan 2 26 is an easy C glider, fast trim, nice glide.

The Elan 2 24 is more demanding to fly than the size 26. 

UPDATE for usability: 

Please remember that sizes differ a lot and surely the loading's! Other sizes may have other characteristics … 

The first 4 places are very close. Indeed superb machines! Different taste for everyone … 

The most important: Only the pilot will make a difference. 

C & D gliders: UPDATED. 

This grade is to say how busy a glider is, in strong conditions, or the one that’s more difficult to manage, comparing to the B category. 

Since this is a very delicate comparison, i must point out that the glider that has quicker authority on the brakes like the Triton 2 will enable a good pilot to keep it swiftly overhead. Some doesn’t have that quick response and in strong conditions they won’t keep the pilot as busy, but he will be the ‘passenger’ for a short lapse of time … 

The grade doesn’t indicate the one that recovers easier or harder!!Only that keeps you busier! Most will have easier recovery than the higher graded! 

Mac Elan M (@98all up) *7 

AD Volt 2 SM @ 90 all up *7 

Swing Nexus (@94 all up) *7.0 

Up Summit XC 3 S (@94 all up) *7.5 

Mac Elan light 24 (@90 all up) *7.5

Mac Para Elan 2, 26 ( @ 101 all up) *7.5 

Advance Sigma 9 25 (@91 all up) *7.5
Ozone Alpina 3 MS (@92 allup) *7.5 

Advance Sigma 10, 25 (@96 all up) *8.3
BGD Lynx M (@ 92 all up)  *8.4
Niviuk Artik 4 25 (@91 all up) *8.5 

Ozone Delta 3 ML ( @ 102 all up) *8.5 

Ozone Alpina 2 SM (@92 all up) * 8.5 

Ozone Delta 3 MS (@92 all up) *8.7
Delta 2 SM size (@ 92 all up) *8.7
Nova Sector S (@96 all up) *8.8  

777 Queen M (@ 101 all up) *9 

Dude Colt 2 S @ 90 all up *9.0 

BGD Cure (@ 93 all up) *9.1 

Aspen 5 26 (@98all up) *10

Mac Para Elan 2, 24 (@ 90 all up) *10

Supair Taska S (@94 all up) *10 

777 Queen 2 MS (@98 allup) *10
Skyman CrossAlps S (@90 all up) *10.5 

Skywalk Spice XS (@90 all up) *10.8 

Skywalk Cayenne 5 XS (90 all up) *11 

Sol Lotus one (@ 98 all up) *11
Gradient Aspen 6-24 (a2 90 all up) *11 

UP Trango Race SM (07 all up) *11.5 

Ozone Mantra 6 SM (@94 all up) *12 

Ozone LM6 SM (@95 all up) *12.2 

Gin Gto 2 S size (@94 all up) *12.5 

Advance OXA 2 @ 96 all up  *12.5
Skywalk Poison X-Alps *12.5 

Up Trango XC3 SM *12.5

Triton 2 in S size (@ 96 all up) *12.5 (M size could be different) ! 

Niviuk Peak 4 23 (98all up) *12.5 

Niviuk Peak 4 21 (@86all up) *13 

Niviuk IP6 26 (@98 all up) *13.5 

Ozone Zeno MS (@98 all up) *13.5 

Ozone R-10 S (@ 98 all up) *15.0 

Cheers, 

Ziad

UP Summit XC 4

UP Summit XC 4 SM 

After my beloved Trango X-Race :-), here’s UP new B glider the Summit XC 4 in SM size.

I took a bit of time to write this test, but finally here it is.

The XC4 has a aspect ratio of 6.3 with an EN-B rating !

Honestly i wasn’t a fan of the XC3 SM when i test flew it…The overall performance and usability didn’t convince me at the time.

Today with the Summit XC 4 i took my time to explore it a little bit and finally managed to get a Carrera plus SM to complete my comparison.

Launching the Summit XC 4 is like any mild 6.3 aspect ratio glider. It’s easy to launch…Not like the 5.4 aspect ratio gliders…But it has a homogenous and straight launch.

Once airborne, the Summit XC 4 gave me the same brake feel as its bigger sister the X-race ! with a slight more forgiving and filtered feel. But the Summit XC4 strangely has the ‘same’ DNA ! 

With a medium brake pressure, the XC 4 has a moderate to good agility, A very nice coordinated feel, performance oriented turning radius. The movements of the air is transmitted through the brakes. Much like the X-race but slightly less feedback coming from the brake lines, and also more comfortable in turbulence than the higher aspect ratio Trango X-race.

I must say though that it does move around a bit in turbulent conditions for a high B glider.

The climb rate next to my reference glider showed me a very competitive climb rate in moderate conditions! 

In entering thermals the Summit XC4 SM at 95, have a neutral pitch behavior. 

In very weak stuff below 0.5 m/s i think my reference glider is still floatier, but with the Summit XC4 faster trim speed, it still has a moderate float ability in very weak stuff. 

The last day, i flew in some weird air, with turbulence, and really unpleasant. In those tricky conditions, the Summit XC4 showed a character and behavior of any moderate aspect ratio C glider (up to 6.5 AR). For sure it is not intended for those low B pilots coming to the higher B category. I could say rather that High B pilots with two seasons on their gliders would be welcomed on the XC4.

The Summit XC4 needs active piloting like the some higher aspect ratio B’s or some C’s. 

To be even more precise, the Summit XC4 needs slightly more active piloting than the Summit XC3. I already updated my B-comparison (see blog) to give you an idea of the overall XC4 placement inside the B category.  

Now i have tried to make some glide comparison with a Carrera plus SM (80-95) loaded at the max(95) , and i was 95 on the Summit XC4 SM ( 75-100). I was really curious to see how it will perform.

To both our surprises the XC4 came out really nice ! It is not that i wasn’t expecting it to be that good…but i wasn’t prepared to see and feel that improvement !

At first with the mentioned loads, the Summit XC4 has around 1.5 km/h more trim speed. And the glide was slightly better for the XC4…The glides were made in some difficult headwind conditions, and the Summit XC 4 surfed the air quite impressively. That does conclude that the XC4 with its B rating has now reached the top performers for the best glide/ efficiency ratio. 

The speed bar has a moderate pressure. The controls on the C risers have a moderate pressure, a bit less than the X-Race ones, and they are more usable in limiting the pitch of the glider in gliding through turbulent stuff when applying the bar. 

Ears are stable, and reopen easily.   

Conclusion:

B rating gliders goes to this delicate box…The Summit XC4 has been rated a B certification. Ok. That doesn’t mean that any “new comer” to this category will find that the 6.3 AR, Summit XC4 will suit him. 

The new comers to this category won’t be able to assimilate the benefits and the bags of performance plus the feedback the Summit XC4 has to deliver. Its like driving a two wheel bicycle for the first time. IMHO, i think this B rating should be understood as a psychological ‘peace of mind’ idea for those who already fly C gliders.  Or high B pilots having a full season in different conditions on their moderate aspect ratio glider, wants to upgrade to a higher aspect ratio glider, and don’t want to leave the B class, then the Summit XC4 is a very interesting tool to move forward on long XC’s with all the benefits a C class glider has to offer. 

Chosen gliders in their respective categories (UPDATE) 5/ 5 / 2018

Those gliders below will be kept for future comparison as i believe that in overall conditions they gave me the best balance between performance, efficiency, handling, climbing having the edge in their respective categories. 
It doesn't mean that they could suit every pilot need ! Every glider has it's own characteristics and every pilot has their own feel and requirement. You can find their characteristics in the B,C, comparison charts.
May everyone have safe and smiling flights  :-)  

EN-B Low aspect ratio gliders = Ozone Buzz Z5 
EN-B with lower aspect ratio than 6 = Skywalk Cumeo / Nova Mentor 5 / Ozone Rush 5 
EN-B with higher aspect ratio than 6 = UP Summit XC 4 
EN-C Moderate aspect ratio = Ozone Alpina 3  
EN-C High aspect ratio = UP Trango X-Race 
EN-D = Ozone Zeno 

Cheers,
Ziad

EN-B comparison UPDATE (Ozone Rush 5 and U-Turn Cross rock)

Info’s: In this race for performance, the recent 2015/2016 gliders are having very thin line set up. Whether on a B, C, or D glider, I have found that those gliders from different manufacturer does in fact change slightly (Still with a large safety margin, within the permitted stretch tolerance with no required adjustment) …They just settle to a certain configuration...Some after 20 hours, and some after 100 hours…But they do change slightly…That’s why flying them again and again will in fact change their characteristic slightly, and this will show on marginal conditions, especially in weak conditions, or in strong head wind conditions.

(THIS COMPARISON HAS BEEN UPDATED ALSO FOR SOME OLDER GLIDERS AFTER MORE AND MORE FLIGHTS UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS)

The best I can do....

Most easy to fly in difficult conditions (most comfortable) :

1-Swing Nyos -RS= Supair Leaf M @ 90 (very comfortable) = Icaro Gravis M @100= AD Rise 2 M = Atlas X-Alps S = Ion 4 S @ 96 = Buzz Z5 SM @95 = Hook 3 25 = UP Kibo SM @ 92 = Epsilon 8 25 @ 95 = Nova Phantom S @ 95 = U-Turn Cross rock S @ 88  

2-Sprint EVO= Eden 5 = Advance E7 26 = Kantega XC2= Ion 3 S = Atlas S= Infinity4 S = Swift 4 SM = AD Rise 2 S Superlight = Skyman Cross country S =U-Cruise M @ 97 = 777 Knight MS @ 93 = Ozone Rush 5  MS at 92.

3- Mentor 5 = Rush 3 = Mentor 3 S = Summit XC 3 S = Iota 26 = Iota 2 25 = Rise 3 S = Triple Seven Rook 2 SM = Carrera Plus S = Base M = Swing Nyos M @ 98 = Eden 6 26 @ 96 = Mentor 4 S @ 96 = Ikuma 25 = GIN Sprint 3 M @ 101 = Nevada 2 S @ 88 = Chili 4 XS @ 92 = Explorer S @ 95  

4-Tequila 4 = Rush 4 = Windtech Bali = Skywalk Aruba 3 S = Sky Apollo M = Mentor 4 XS light = Chili 4 XS @ 92

5-Blacklight SM = Nevada = Sky Atis 4 = Comet 2 S= Swing Mistral 7 S 

6-Mentor 2 = Lightning S 

7-Chili 3 = UP Summit XC 4 

8-Carrera S, M

Climb rate in very weak conditions (float-ability)

1-Carrera Plus S @ 91 = Chili 3 S @ 98 = Infinity 4 S@ 90 = UP Kantega XC2 S @ 90 = U-Turn Blacklight SM @ 98 = Atlas X-Alps S @ 92 & M @ 102 = Swift SM @ 90 = Skyman Cross country S @ 88 = Chili 4 XS @ 92 = Explorer S @ 95 = Mentor 5 S @ 95 = Iota 2 -25 @ 96 = Ozone Rush 5 MS at 92 

2-Nevada = Rush 4 SM @ 90 = Mentor 2 S (Still Efficient) = Tequila 4 SM = Ion 4 S @ 95 = Eden 6 26 @ 96 = Buzz Z5 SM @88 = Eden 5 = Carrera S, M =Triple Seven Rook 2 SM = Lightning S @90 = Arriba 3 S @ 92 = Mentor 4 S @ 94 = Mentor 4 XS light = Supair Leaf M @ 90 = Icaro Gravis M @100 = UP Summit XC 4 @ 96= 777 Knight MS @ 93= AD Rise 3 S @ 90 = U-Turn Cross rock S at 88.

3-Mentor 3 S @ 95 = AD Rise 2 M = Gin Sprint 3 M @ 101 = U-Cruise @ 97= Swing Nyos -RS

= Atlas S @ 90 = Hook 3 = Base M @ 90 = Rise 2 S Superlight @ 90 = Iota 26 @ 95 = Windtech Bali @ 95 = Sky Apollo M @ 92 = Nevada 2 S @ 88 = Epsilon 8 25 = Nova Phantom S @ 95

4-Summit XC 3 S @ 93 = Comet 2 S @ 88 = Ion 3 S @ 95 = Ikuma 25 = UP Kibo SM @ 92

5- Sky Atis 4 = Advance E 7 26 = Swing M7 S @ 92 = Swing Nyos M @ 98

Climb rate in OVERALL conditions for XC flying (difficult ,weak, or strong) .

“Relatively moving conditions”

1-Carrera Plus S @ 94 = Chili 3 S @ 98 = Carrera S, M = Swift SM @ 92 = Mentor 4 S @ 97 = Mentor 4 XS light = Supair Leaf M = Chili 4 XS @ 92 = Explorer S @ 95 = Mentor 5 S @ 96 =Iota 2 -25 @ 96 = AD Rise 3 S @ 90 = Ozone Rush 5 MS @ 92 

2- Swing Nyos -RS= Nevada 1= Triple Seven Rook 2 SM @ 93 = U-Turn Blacklight SM= Rush 4 SM = Mentor 2 S (Still Efficient) = Mentor 3 S ( it is very dampened) = Tequila 4 SM = AD Rise 2 M = Atlas S = Base M = Rise 2 S Superlight = Atlas X-Alps S & M = Ion 4 S @ 95 = Eden 6 26 @ 96 = Buzz Z5 SM @ 92 = Skyman Cross Country S = Gin Sprint 3 M @ 101 = Sky Apollo M = Arriba 3 S @ 92 =U-Cruise M @ 97=UP Summit XC 4 @ 96 = U-Turn Cross rock S at 88.

3-Iota 26 = Windtech Bali = NK Ikuma 25 = Swing Nyos M @ 98 = Up Kibo SM = Icaro Gravis M @100 = 777 Knight MS @ 93

4-Summit XC 3 S @ 93 = Comet 2 S = Ion 3 S =Epsilon 8 25 @ 95 = Nevada 2 S @ 88 =  

5-Hook 3 = Eden 5 = Sky Atis 4= Advance E 7 26 = UP Kantega XC2 S = Infinity 4 S = Swing M7 S = Lightning S @90 (These gliders have a superb climb in calm conditions away from the valley breeze. Differences are very small .Its up to the pilot !)

Glide in “OVERALL” conditions (upwind, downwind, racing in difficult conditions) Or “efficiency” ! Done in active air.

1- Explorer S @ 95 = Mentor 5 S @96 = UP Summit XC 4 @ 96 = Carrera S, M  = Ozone Rush 5 MS 

2- Chili 4 XS @ 92 = Mentor 4 S = Iota 26 = Carrera Plus = Rook 2 SM = Mentor 4 XS light = Iota 2 -25 = AD Rise 3 S = Swing Nyos -RS  

3- Eden 6 26 @ 96 = Nyos M @ 98 = Nova Phantom S @ 98 = U-Turn Crossrock S @ 88 

4- Sprint 3 M @ 101= U-Cruise M @ 97

5-Mentor 3 S = Chili 3 S = Ion 4 S @ 95 = Sky Apollo M @ 93 = Nevada 2 S @ 88 

6-Rush 4 = AD Rise 2 = Swift 4 SM = Ikuma 25 = Skyman Cross country S = UP Kibo SM @ 92 = Icaro Gravis M @100 = 777 Knight MS @ 93 

7-Nevada 1 26 (must be loaded at 100 ) = Windtech Bali = Hook 3 = Tequila 4 SM = Mentor 2 S = Arriba 3 S = Buzz Z5 SM @ 92 = Epsilon 8 25 @ 95

8-Blacklight SM (loaded) = Ion 3 S = Sky Atis 4 M = Swing Mistral 7 S = Atlas X-Alps =AD Rise 2 S Superlight = UP Summit XC3 S size (M&L could be different) = Atlas X-Alps S =UP Summit XC3 S

9-BGD Base M = Supair Leaf M @ 90 = kantega XC2 S = Rush 3 M = AD Rise 1 = Infinity 4 S = Eden 5 = Comet 2 S = Atlas S = Advance E7 26 ( The differences are small with ± half a point in L/D max, in “relatively moderate conditions” . (Racing in stronger conditions will show bigger differences)

Fun feel : “pleasure to fly, “agile” and higher overall fun feeling” IMHO

1-Tequila 4 S @ + 91 kg = Arriba 3 @ 90 all up

2- Buzz Z5 SM @ 90 = Base M @ + 91 kg / Infinity 4 S @ + 89 Kg = Swift 4 @ + 91 Kg / Atlas S / Sky Atis 4 M @ + 95 Kg / Swing Mistral 7 @ +92 Kg / Mentor 2 S @ +95 Kg / Comet 2 S @ + 93 Kg / =UP Kibo SM @ 93 = Sky Apollo M @ 92 = Mentor 4 XS light = Supair Leaf M @ 90 = Chili 4 XS @ 92 = Explorer S @ 95 = Ion 4 S @ 96 = Mentor 5 S @96=UP Summit XC4 @ 96 = 777 Knight MS @ 93 

3-Rush 4 @ + 91 Kg / Carrera S @ + 92 kg / Blacklight S @ +91 Kg / Blacklight SM @ + 100 Kg / UP Kantega XC2 @ + 95 Kg / Mentor 3 & 4 S @ +95 Kg / Advance Iota @ + 96 Kg / Wintech Bali M @ + 97 Kg / Chili 3 @ + 100 Kg / AD Rise 2 S superlight @ + 89 Kg =Triple Seven Rook 2 SM @ 97 = Nyos 26 @ 99 = Ikuma 25 = Eden 6 26 @ 96 = Skyman Cross country S @ 88 = Gin Sprint 3 M @ 101 = Epsilon 8 = Nevada 2 S = U-Cruise 25 =Nova Phantom S @96 = Icaro Gravis M @100 =Iota 2 -25 = AD Rise 3 S = Swing Nyos -RS @ 92 . 

4-Ozone Rush 5 MS at 92 = U-Turn Crossrock S at 88

5- Rise 2 M @ + 103 Kg / Nevada 26 @ + 100 Kg / Ion 3 S @ + 97 Kg / Hook 3 M @ + 97 Kg /UP Summit XC3 @ + 93 kg / AD Rise 1 @ + 95 Kg = Atlas X-Alps S & M

Most demanding glider in "strong conditions" (1-10) '10' being most demanding for a high end B ‘: ( Please bear in mind the 'size' and the 'wing loading' ! )

* Some C’s and D’s were included to inform pilots about their demanding behavior (Forum request) .

Supair Leaf M (@90 all up) * 3.9

Advance E7 26 (@93 all up) * 3.9

GIN Atlas X-Alps ( S @ 94 all up) *3.9

AD Rise 2 M (@98all up) *4

 Swing Nyos -RS (@ 92 all up) *4

UP Kibo SM @ 92 *4

Skyman cross country S @ 88 *4

Eden 5 (@ 95 all up) *4

Hook 3 (@97 all up) *4

Epsilon 8 25 (@95 all up) *4

Buzz Z5 SM @ 92 *4

Nova Ion 4 S @ 95 *4

BGD Base M (@90all up) *4.5

Rush 3 M (@102 all up) *4.5

Sprint Evo ( @ 98 all up ) *4.5

Nova Ion 3 S (@ 95 all up) *5.0

Nova Phantom S (@95 allup) *5.0

777 Knight MS @ 93 * 5.0 

U-Turn Infinity 4 S (@ 90all up) *5.0

Gin Atlas S (@ 92 all up ) * 5.0

UP Kantega Xc2 S (@ 90 all up)*5.0

Air Cross U-Cruise M (@97 all up)*5.3

Rush 5 MS (@92 all up) *5.3

Cross rock S (@88 all up) * 5.3

AD Rise 1 (@ 102 all up) *5.5

Windtech Bali (@95 all up) *5.5

Swift 4 SM (@ 92 all up) *5.5

Triple Seven Rook 2 SM ( at 97) *5.5

Eden 6 26 @ 96 *5.5

Nyos M @ 98 *5.5

Iota 26 ( @ 95 all up) *5.5

Iota 2 25 (@97all up) *5.5

Gin Sprint 3 M @ 101 *5.5

Blacklight SM (@100 all up)*5.5

Sky Atis 4 M (@93 all up) *5.5

Nevada 26 (@ 100 all up ) *5.5

Mentor 3 S ( @97 all up) *5.5

Mentor 5 S (@96all up) *5.5

Tequila 4 SM (@92 all up) *5.5

Ikuma 25 @ 94 * 5.6

Nevada 2 S (@88 all up) *5.6

AD Rise 3 S (@92) *5.6

Mentor 4 S ( @ 95 all up) *5.6

Chili 4 XS @92 *5.6 

Arriba 3 S at 92 all up *5.6

Mentor 4 XS light * 5.7

Sky Apollo M @ 92 *5.7

Axis Comet 2 S (@90 all up 5.8

UP Summit XC3 @ 93 all up. 6.0

GIN Carrera plus S @ 94 all up *6.0

Explorer S @ 95 *6.0 

Swing M7 S (@90all up) *6.0

Rush 4 SM (@93 all up) *6.0

Blacklight S ( @ 90 all up) *6.5

Lightning S @ (90 all up) 6.5

Mentor 2 S (@ 95 all up) *6.5

Up Summit XC 3 S (@94 all up) *7.0

Up Summit XC4 SM (@96 allup) *7.0

Chili 3 S (@ 98all up) *7.0

Carrera S, M 8.0

C & D gliders:

This grade is to say how busy a glider is, in strong conditions, or the one that’s more difficult to manage, comparing to the B category.

Since this is a very delicate comparison, i must point out that the glider that has quicker authority on the brakes like the Triton 2 will enable a good pilot to keep it swiftly overhead. Some doesn’t have that quick response and in strong conditions they won’t keep the pilot as busy, but he will be the ‘passenger’ for a short lapse of time …

The grade doesn’t indicate the one that recovers easier or harder!!Only that keep you busier! Most will have easier recovery than the higher graded!

Mac Elan M (@98all up) *7

Swing Nexus (@94 all up) *7.0

Mac Elan light 24 (@90 all up) *7.5

Advance Sigma 9 25 (@91 all up) *7.5

Niviuk Artik 4 25 (@91 all up) *8.5

Ozone Alpina 2 MS (@92 all up) * 8.5

Ozone Alpina 3 MS (@ 93 all up) *8.5 

Delta 2 SM size (@ 92 all up) *9

777 Queen M (@ 101 all up) *9.1

Supair Taska S ( @94 all up) *9.1

BGD Cure (@ 93 all up) *9.3

Aspen 5 26 (@98all up) *10

Skyman CrossAlps S (@90 all up) *10.5

Skywalk Spice XS (@90 all up) *10.8

Skywalk Cayenne 5 XS (90 all up) *11

Sol Lotus one (@ 98 all up) *11

UP Trango Race SM (@ 97 all up) *11.5 

Ozone Mantra 6 SM (@94 all up) *12
Gradient XC 5 26 (@96allup) *12

Ozone LM6 SM (@95 all up) *12.2

Gin Gto 2 S size (@94 all up) *12.5
Skywalk Poison X-Alps *12.5

Triton 2 in S size (@ 96 all up) *12.5 (M size could be different) !

Niviuk Peak 4 23 (98all up) *12.5

Niviuk Peak 4 21 (@86all up) *13

Niviuk IP6 26 (@98 all up) *13.5
Ozone Zeno MS (@98 all up) *13.5 

Ozone R-10 S (@ 98 all up) *15.0

The Leaf is impressively comfortable and agile. I was hoping for better glide but it's super cool !

The Epsilon 8 has good performance for a low B. It's comfortable with nice handling.

The U-Cruise has a high degree of comfort. The performance is really good, and a high trim speed.Agile, feels like a solid tough structure!

The Nevada 2 has less brake travel than the 1, the performance is nice and the climb is moderate to fair.

The Eden 5 has less top speed of 3-4 km than the others.

The Hook 3 is very comfortable to fly with a very interesting glide angle. The climb in smooth conditions is fair.

The Mentor 3 is much easier than the Mentor 2, and its efficiency is in those turbulent glides where it will have less pitch movements and little better glide.

The Mentor 4 has better glide than the Mentor 3 but with lesser climb “only” in weak conditions.

The Ikuma is a comfortable glider with nice handling. The overall performance is is in the mid of the High B category.

The Iota has a very good glide similar to the Mentor 4, It has a nice climb similar to the Mentor “3”.

The Chili 3 S “still” has the best climb rate and a very nice handling in homogenous conditions. But with a very long brake travel.

The Advance E7 26 is the most confidence inspiring rock solid glider of the cat. It reminded me of the low B cat in comfort.

The BGD Base is a confidence inspiring, solid glider. The climb and handling are very good.

The Atis 4 has a bit roll movement and need some active piloting in the high end B’s.

It has a fast trim speed, much like the M3 and Chili 3. Long brake travel are needed to let the glider respond in turbulent conditions.

The UP Kantega XC2 S is a very nice wing to fly .It has nice handling and also superb climb overall being also very accessible.

The Swing M7 S is a delight to fly. It dives a bit into turns. It is fast enough for a B, and has enough performance. Not really a floater but a nice glider overall.

The Rush 4 has a very good glide . It is an overall good, very solid B glider, but its trim speed is around 38 km/h and especially the top speed which is low for the cat around 51 km/h .

The fastest are Mentor 3, XC3, Mistral 7…But it is around 55-km/h max.

The AD rise 2 M has the BEST ratio Performance/Comfort in flight!

The Tequila 4 SM is like a precious gem! Combining agility/performance/accessibility!

The Infinity 4 has a very light and nice turning behavior! It has a low trim speed , and the climb rate even loaded is outstanding!

The Comet 2 S give a nice feeling under it. It has a very nice handling.

The Windtech Bali has a respected glide angle. It needs slightly active piloting in big air.

The Atlas S has everything to make its pilot very happy, with a good feeling of passive safety. The X-Alps version of the Atlas has more performance overall, especially in climb.

The Arriba is slightly more dynamic than the Tequila 4 and a pleasurable glider to fly.

The Rook 2 is a well-balanced high performance B glider, with nice handling and efficiency.

The Nyos is very comfortable, made for strong conditions. The gliding performance is very good !

The Eden 6 26 is a very balanced all round B glider toward performance flying, and respecting a pleasant pleasurable feel!

The Buzz Z5 has an upgrade over the Z4 in performance while retaining the comfort. The brake pressure and feel in thermals is really nice!

The Cross country is a light glider with pleasurable handling, and comfortable behavior.

The UP Kibo is an accessible B glider with a comfortable ride.

The Sky Apollo is a pleasure to fly.

The Gin Sprint 3 M performance /comfort ratio is very good.

The Chili 4 has lots of performance. It’s an excellent B glider with moderate aspect ratio.

The Mentor 5 S has the top overall performance in the B segment. Close top the Chili 4. Its relatively an easy B glider..Easier than the M4, and could be similar to the M3 in pilot level.

The Phantom has a very high performance for a very low aspect ratio. If the price would be +1.50 % from the others then it’s highly justified…

 The Explorer with it’s 6.1 AR, is a light, soft, easy to use, and great companion for XC use 

The UP Summit XC4 with its B rating, is IMHO a mild (C) glider, like the Carrera series. The overall performance and handling is really on top ! 

The Iota 2 has a very accessible and easy to use speed system. A very nice XC machine !

The Rise 3 S flown at top is a serious contender for the new 2017 high B's.

The Nyos -RS has the best ratio of : comfort / performance in the high B segment ! A very good XC machine for strong air.

The Ozone Rush 5 has the best ratio of comfort/performance for a high B ! 

The Cross rock is a very interesting light B glider, with very accessible use and very good performance.

Conclusion: The Carrera plus has now two direct competitors, the M5 and the Chili 4 in pure gliding power and climb!

The M5 and the Chili 4 have a low aspect ratio, but totally competitive with the best high aspect ratio B gliders.

The Carrera plus climb is even better than the original version only in weak and moderate conditions. The more the headwind, the original version cut forward more efficiently.

The Phantom is a cool glider for long XC’s in the Alps! Its overall performance will get you anywhere in a cool manner. Just fly it at +75% of its weight range for efficiency.

The AD Rise 2 is very comfortable to fly with a superb glide for the high B category.

The AD Rise 3 has the top performance in 2017, with a good efficiency for a B.

The Iota 2 -25 flown at top, is a super efficient and easy gliding machine that can get great results for the years to come.

The Rush 4 like the Swift 4 has nearly the glide of the Mentor 3 but with lesser speed. It's an overall efficient glider in difficult conditions where it could cut through turbulence and have a very solid and compact feel coupled with a direct handling.

The Mentor 4 has now the best glide in difficult conditions among the similar aspect ratio B’s very close to the Iota and the Rook 2. The climb in very weak conditions still favors the Mentor 3 S similarly loaded.

The Atlas X-Alps is an easy “all rounder” with very good performance especially in weak climbs and low saves.

I’m certain that a good pilot can break an XC record with ANY of those superb B gliders from above!

Please pick the one that will make you feel happy under it ….The rest is up to you!

Cheers,

Ziad