The U2 is a very high performance glider with handling characteristics suitable for pilots with intermediate and higher levels of skills and experience. The U2 is available in two sizes - 160 and 145.
The U2 was conceived as a very light-weight glider with performance approaching that of the much heavier, more expensive, and more challenging competition class wings.
There are no reflex bridles - all stability systems are internal - so cable drag is minimized. Beginning with the 2009 model year, all lower cables are 3/32 1x19 un-coated, for additional drag reduction. Standard on the U2 is the new Litestream control bar, a Slipstream style, fully streamlined bar that uses the same streamlined aluminum basetube as the Slipstream bar, but with shorter chord, easier to grip, lighter weight Litestream downtubes. Specially machined, fully streamlined aluminum corner fittings complete the Litestream package, which offers a more than 95% reduction in drag as compared to a regular AT-style streamlined control bar with a round basetube. The U2 features a curved tip planform and sports an exceptionally clean sail with a Mylar or 205MT leading edge and 205MT trailing edge offered as standard equipment, or an available upgrade to either Hydranet of UVM sailcloth. An extended bottom surface in the root cleanly fairs in the hang loop. For the 2009 model year, the U2 features an upgraded and improved sail cut that results in improved performance and even better handling characteristics. An upgrade to an all Mylar top surface is also an available option for 2009.
In the air, at the looser VG settings, the U2 offers, light, quick response coupled with forgiving handling characteristics. With the VG on, the gliding range at speed expands dramatically, and the glider tracks straight and true. The U2 uses a weight- and cost-saving conventional VG system. The result is an exceptional performance package that is extraordinarily accessible. The landing characteristics are very straightforward; handling is damped and predictable on approach, the flare window is broad and flare authority is ample.
New Litestream Compatible Round Speedbar Basetube
We are now offering the option of a round speedbar basetube on the U2. This option is to address the requests of pilots who prefer the grip of a round basetube for comfort reasons, and pilots who want to be able to mount larger diameter wheels on a Litestream control bar. The photo shows the Litestream round speedbar mounted to a Sport 2, with Hall Wheels (not included) installed. We also have available VG compatible hubs for the larger 8 inch diameter Finsterwalder pneumatic wheels that allow them to be mounted on the Litestream round speedbar.
Pilots should expect approximately 1/2 point in degradation of L/D by going to the round basetube over the streamlined basetube. The Litestream compatible round speedbar is a no extra cost option when requested on any new glider order.
