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The LightSpeed III is our latest high aspect ratio, advanced competition
class discus launch glider. This airplane favors launch and
run.
Like the LightHawk, you'll find the plane kitted at
a high level of completion. The wing is bagged in one piece -- no
joining. The wing pylons are installed into the boom and pre-threaded.
Version III
Imagine a beefed-up version II, and that's pretty much
what v.III is. We wanted to make the glider capable in the hands
of the hardest throwers, so the wing and boom flex allowed for
version II has been greatly stiffened. The blended airfoil set
is thicker, but still designed to provide the
same
type of
performance.
A new
spar
system
helps
provide the stiffness. The glider is also much happier with differential
aileron (called ADIFF in some transmitters). The
glider retains more energy througout the thermal turning circle.
We offer a two piece wing option for those
International customers who cannot receive a 60" box by U.S.
mail.
Competition and Flight Reports
The latest LightSpeed launches high, and still has a little
faster cruise speed compared to LightHawk. Float is surprisingly
good,
with
the
glider demonstrating minimum sink rates lower than most other 1.5
meter gliders. Cruise is effective without ballasting in winds
up
to 15 mph / 6.7 meters per second. An optional ballast system increases
wing loading, with standard configurations at 30, 50, and 70
grams (up to 2-1/2 oz.).
Version III has a little higher weight than previous versions,
as our competition design trends now favor stiffer components.
The wing utilizes a proprietary, thicker blended airfoil set.
LightSpeed vs. LightHawk
LightHawk remains a glider we'd recommend for new pilots.
It can be the best option for some experienced pilots as well.
LightHawk has a wonderful
balance of flying attributes.
However, LightSpeed still exhibits good all-around capabilities.
It's a kick to fun fly and sky-out. For contest flying the LightSpeed
has an edge in launch and run.
LightSpeed Status
LightSpeed is now in production. We craft the LightSpeed
DLG in all Kevlar. If you would like one or more LightSpeed DLGs,
order in our store
or by telephone, specifying options and throwing side. We will make
your glider as specified. Orders ship in sequence of date received.
Assembly
We strongly recommend you prepare your LightSpeed for flight by
closely following the step-by-step
assembly guide.
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