NIVIUK IP 6
The very long waited IP6 23 came finally and I was able to
fly it in variable conditions from weak to turbulent at 98 all up recommended
by NIVIUK.
Launching:
If I want to compare it with the old ‘D’s, the IP6 is a bit
difficult to launch it overall.
In flight:
Comparing this glider also to the old ‘D’s, Peak 2,M4, O8…
,the IP6 feels more dynamic and alive.
It feels like the glider has lots of energy.
The handling and ability to steer the glider in “moderate
conditions” is outstanding. Very responsive, soft and linear brake travel
enables its pilot to experience not less than perfection.
Flying all the new ‘C’s and old generation ‘D’s I could
immediately feel that I am under something very different and special. A glider
from outer space .The climb is twice better. I could float endlessly and the
flying feels ‘light’, as it opens new doors to very long xc flights.
Gliding with the IP 6 is a memorable experience. It will
illuminate the pilot to the fact that numbers on paper are pure illusion.
Encountering a light lift on long glides, the IP6 will
inhale that lift and float endlessly to the horizon ;-)
In small turbulent cores and moving conditions, the IP 6
will remind its pilot that it’s a pure breaded horse very different from the
old ‘D’ category. It has lots of energy that it will need some time to settle
and controlled for the pilot to steer it into the core. The brakes became less powerful
to adjust to the energy of the glider.
But in those nasty conditions the IP 6 never felt soft and I
didn’t have any collapses or even felt that it will collapse. The structure
felt very strong.
The accelerator is smooth and at first bar the wing speed
increases significantly with practically no loss of gliding power! At second
bar a speed over 63 could be reached easily.
Big ears are possible with the B3, but after applying half
bar and reaching the lines at the highest possible. The pressure is high, and I
wasn’t able to get less than -2m/s at ¾ of the bar. They reopen very quickly on
release.
360’s are a delight, as the handling will enable the pilot
to let the IP6 dive. Lots of power !
Conclusion:
Competition pilots will never mind all what’s written here.
Their goal is to win and the IP 6 is already here to confirm that.
My conclusion is for C or D pilots who are thinking about
getting themselves an upgrade.
I will be clear and fair. IMHO The IP 6 is the competition
glider of the moment that will clearly win PWC events in the hands of those
professional pilots who are searching for winning. That’s the main purpose behind
its creation ….
Old ‘D’s are a big step behind in performance and overall
ease of use.
I have sent the glider now and I am still thinking of that
unimaginable piece of art! Those memorable moments under it…I felt that I was
really “flying”
But since I am not into competitions with lots of responsibilities
towards myself and others, and rather prefer a more relaxing and common wing
for everyday use, I will wait to test fly that new NIVIUK peak 2 (replacement)
and I am sure that the designer will have some more tricks under his sleeves
;-) .