Falcon vs Saturn

I'm looking at the specs and reviews of the Falcon 225 and Saturn 167. Both of these look like a good first glider for a heavy (215lb) H2 pilot. Anyone care to share an opinion?

I am wondering about the VG option on the Saturn, what does it cost? And what does it do?

Thanks,

Forget the opinion...Here are some facts...while the Higher perfomance gliders are getting smaller because of thier efficiency, beginner and intermediate gliders are not..At least not the single and partial double surface gliders. the Falcon wold be a better choice for you because of your weight. You are not a monster but you are a bigger than average pilot. If you would choose the smaller Saturn over the bigger Falcon , you will not get the sink rate that you would be happy with. For you at a Level II. Bigger is better. The Saturn will offer you better glide because of it's size and your wieght on the glider. The VG option gives you higher speeds and better glide by changing the Geometry of the glider while in flight.

Allow me to disagree. While I agree with your facts ( the Falcon will have a slightly better sink and the Saturn will have a better glide and speed range), I think the Saturn will be a better choice for just those reasons. The 167 squares will more than carry his weight In fact it flies better with more weight. But while this is my opinion, my advice is for Rich to fly both gliders and chose for himself. That is the only way he can be assured of being happy with his choice. Thanks for listening. RMW 'Everything in this book may be wrong.'

I've flown both, and they're both great gliders. If you were lighter, I'd say go for the Saturn, it would give you more 'growing room'. i.e., wouldn't out grow it as quickly, but Altair doesn't make a big Saturn, just small and medium. The 225 Falcon will not only give you a better sink rate, but will do it at a much lower speed. Since you're a H2, a glider with a low stall speed will make takeoffs and landings much easier. Approaches are also easier at slower speeds. The Saturn may support your weight, but only at an increased airspeed which is not good for your experience level.

Angelo Mantas, Hang IV and former instructor

<< I'm looking at the specs and reviews of the Falcon 225 and Saturn 167. Both of these look like a good first glider for a heavy (215lb) H2 pilot. Anyone care to share an opinion?

I am wondering about the VG option on the Saturn, what does it cost? And what does it do? >>