Ikarus Grasshopper
| Grasshopper | |
|---|---|
| Role | Hang glider |
| National origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci |
| Designer | Thomas Pellicci |
| Status | In production |
The Ikarus Grasshopper is a German high-wing, single-place, hang glider, designed by Thomas Pellicci and produced by his company Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci.[1]
Design and development[edit]
The Grasshopper is intended to be a simple single surface glider with easy handling and modest performance for flight training and school use. It employs a very large wing area, low aspect ratio and low weight to make it easy for students to take-off and land. Unlike many hang glider models, the Grasshopper is available in just one size.[1][2]
The aircraft is made from aluminum tubing, with the wing covered in Dacron sailcloth. Its 10.2 m (33.5 ft) span wing is cable braced from a single kingpost. The nose angle is 120°, wing area is 21 m2 (230 sq ft) and the aspect ratio is 4.95:1. The take-off weight range is 68 to 110 kg (150 to 243 lb) and pilot hook-in weight range is 45 to 85 kg (99 to 187 lb). It is certified as DHV Class 1.[1][2]
Specifications (Grasshopper)[edit]
Data from Bertrand and Company[1][2]
General characteristics
- Crew: one
- Wingspan: 10.2 m (33 ft 6 in)
- Wing area: 21 m2 (230 sq ft)
- Aspect ratio: 4.95:1
- Empty weight: 23.0 kg (51 lb)
- Gross weight: 110 kg (243 lb)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 54 km/h (34 mph, 29 kn)
- Wing loading: 5.2 kg/m2 (1.1 lb/sq ft)
References[edit]
- ^ a b c d Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 46. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
- ^ a b c Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci (n.d.). "Ikarus Grashüpfer - der Schulungsdrachen für den Übungshang Der Grashüpfer ist als sehr gutmütiger Einsteiger für den Übungshang konzipiert (German language)". Retrieved 23 February 2012.