LAK-17A versus LAK-17B

[Ronald de Vries]

I am looking into the LAK -17A and 17B gliders and saw there are quit a few owners in the US.
I like to hear some feedback (experience) on the difference between the LAK-17A and the LAK-17B version. I understand the wingprofile is different.
What is the difference in terms of handling, performance, maintenance/rigging.

Appreciate all of your views. Thanks.

Ron

[Semantics Michael]

Ron,
I don't know if the wing profile was changed between the two models, but for sure SA and Vitek at Blanik America should provide that info. I thought I saw two different polars: A vs B published somewhere. The wing ballast system was changed to increase the max load perhaps and the outboard diehedral modified, I believe. Other sources of info: The Canadian SA dealer has been more helpful than most when responding to similar questions and the LAK17 Google user group: LAK17Sa...@groups.io Please let us know what you find out.

Phyllis

[Mike Carris]

Yes, I was told by Vitek that the b could carry more water than the a, in response to the higher wing loading capabilities of more modern sailplanes, the ASG29 was mentioned. I think the handicaps of the a and b are the same. If you are thinking of buying a LAK, the LAK 17a is a wonderful sailplane, with a nice performance to cost ratio. I found no bad habits with mine, and had performance that took me some time to grow into after being conditioned flying a Mini Nimbus for seven years. Love the LAK.