The Cyclone is a high aspect ratio machine which utilises a tight sail and preformed battens. The glider was designed purely for experienced pilots with cross country and competition flying in mind. The Cyclone has single deflexers and unusually a tip to control frame wire and is very sensitive to turning on the various turnbuckles. Handling is a little difficult until the pilot has adapted to the machine's peculiarities. Pitch and roll on the small 165 model are fairly light which normally leads to quite a lot of pilot induced oscilation. On the large 180 model roll is much heavier, leading to possible discomfort in rough air. Performance is excellent and the sink rate of a well tuned 180 Cyclone is hard to beat. The glider was the fastest of the machines at the time; the large one being faster than the small model.

 

1979 Cyclone

 

In 1980-81 the Chargus company brought out the Mk II Cyclone which features a floating keel which improves the handling.

 

Cyclone 180

Root: 7.66 ft

Sail area: 180 sq ft

Span: 36 ft

Aspect ratio: 7.2

Price: £595.00 inc bag VAT.