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First Impressions - Skywalk Tequila2 PDF Print E-mail

skywalk_t2_orange_launch.jpgPete Morris gives his first impressions of the ground-breaking low-end DHV 1-2, TEQUILA2.

 

I was keen to try out this DHV1-2 for a number of reasons, firstly, as the glider was very well received at the Stubai Cup earlier in the year, why was this the case?. Secondly, the original Tequila was much loved by its pilots, what improvements have been made from the original? and more importantly it is essential to know which market this glider is suited to, could it be suitable to a beginner? or would it be more like the Chili top end 1-2?.
 
SKYWALK describe the TEQUILA2 as a 'freerider' - well what does this mean?? 
 
The background to the design is that Manfred the chief designer at SKYWALK has concentrated heavily on using lightweight cloth in the design of the Top DHV2-3 on the market - The Poison2. - This experience has been used on the Tequila2.  By using Porcher Skytex - lighter weight material - this enables the wing to have more internal structure, thus creating greater rigidity and stability through cross bracing within the wing, together with fewer lines. This means less drag, cleaner profile etc.
 
On first inspection, the glider comes in a standard Skywalk bag - very comfortable - does the job well.
The build quality - very good german attention to detail as usual.
This glider also oozes style with excellent colour combinations - looks the business.  
 
On first inflation - this was an absolute breeze, gone are the days of struggling with the reverse launch - this has been a fundamental development over the last couple of years, the newest gliders have become very, very easy to control on launch. Having seen students take a long time to master the reverse launch skill in the past, this has now changed dramatically. Two Tequila2s were out on the hill yesterday being used by students - in a handful of attempts they were able to launch to the same standard as a competent pilot, this would have taken hours of practice with an older glider for sure.
 
In the air, the handling of this wing was an absolute joy. With a smooth direct response from the brake pressure applied, the feedback was direct and secure. The pressure feel through the brakes was firm, with a direct and precise response this not only provided security, as I could definitely feel exactly what was happening to the wing but also I could use every ounce of brake travel to put the glider in any position with confidence and accuracy. The pressure whilst firm was not stiff, but smooth, requiring little physical exertion, providing relaxing flying without being strenuous, this makes for excellent XC potential.
 
This glider sits firmly between the Mescal2 DHV1 and the top end Chili DHV1-2, being more agile than the Mescal2 but more well tempered than the Chili, having said that the potential for throwing the glider around is clearly possible, this glider does not bank and pitch as rapidly as the Chili but has exhilarating energy retention in equal measure allowing for as much excitement as required. As with all Skywalk gliders you are getting jet flap technology, this certainly makes for sweet handling and enables the pilot to crank the glider around in tight lift, without the fear of stalling the wing.
 
skywalk_t2_red_plan.jpgOnce flown, it is clear that the speed and glide performance of this wing have been very much improved in comparison to its predicessor, and could well come out on top of its rivals in this class. The speed system is light and very easy to use, as are the ears. The glider is very secure, with superb feedback and tuck resistance - making for very reassuring flyability.
 
This glider would be suited to those pilots wishing to go XC, pilots trading down and also talented beginners.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Overall I was amazed with this glider, I landed with a smile on my face, and my initial thought was 'well this is it, they have finally produced the ultimate glider, we may as well empty all of our shelves and just sell this wing to anyone, with total confidence'. It is great when one is able to sell a product that they truly believe in, I loved flying this glider and would highly recommend it.
 
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