Theresa “Tess” Schmidt is a UP team pilot and an experienced tandem pilot. During the team pilots’ meeting, she had the opportunity to test the new K2 5 in size 41 under challenging conditions.
Takeoff
“The K2 5, which is EN/LTF B, handles launch very smoothly, giving you plenty of time to control the glider. Even here, since the launch site in Bassano del Grappa is rather short and steep, and conditions were challenging with strong winds and intense thermal turbulence. No problem for me and my passenger - better more wind than having to run a lot during takeoff. As soon as the glider was overhead, we were airborne with just a few steps.”
Thermals
“We hit some pretty rough turbulence while climbing. This weekend, we were going up at speeds of up to 8 meters per second. But the K2 5 was easy to control, precise to steer, and overall quite smooth. We didn’t experience any collapses. Even in challenging spring conditions, the tandem is a joy to fly and inspires confidence with its calm flight behavior. Accordingly, we followed the thermals all the way up above the summit of Monte Grappa, where there was still snow. Aside from the fact that it got pretty cold up there, it was a comfortable flight even for the passenger.”
Flight
“We then tried a spiral and some wing-overs, which was a lot of fun - not least thanks to the steering pressure not being too high. An important aspect - especially as a woman - is being able to control it easily without much effort. The brake pressure is, I’d say, just right: not too stiff to hold, but also not too soft, so you have the glider well under control. I find the K2 5 quite agile; older models can’t quite keep up.”
Conclusion
“Launching is easy. Thermal circling, rolling, and spiraling are a ton of fun thanks to the K2 5’s precise control! It has relaxed, smooth flight characteristics and offers pleasantly light handling without feeling like a ‘tank.’ When it’s time to descend, the big-ear holders are pretty handy.”