Very interesting video on classic (like the first ones built) ultralights. I like the U2 and the Deal XTC (though it doesn't look Part 103).
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Classic Ultralights
Moderators: Badland-F5 Pilot, LA F2 Flyer
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Badland-F5 Pilot
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- Joined: Tue Dec 14, 2021 10:32 am
- Location: Stark, FL
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LA F2 Flyer
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- Location: Los Angeles
Re: Classic Ultralights
Very cool video, and interesting bit about ABC essentially single-handedly killing the UL market!
Also, I really like that XTC...very versatile for an ultralight!
Thanks for posting this!
Also, I really like that XTC...very versatile for an ultralight!
Thanks for posting this!
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Badland-F5 Pilot
- Site Admin
- Posts: 823
- Joined: Tue Dec 14, 2021 10:32 am
- Location: Stark, FL
Re: Classic Ultralights
I've always loved flying wings and canard aircraft. Did you also notice when they were talking about the Sky Pup's glide ratio of 12:1. That's nice. I really love Grok, what an AI. Asking Grok what glide ratio our Badland's may have.
The exact glide ratio for a Badland Ultralight aircraft is not explicitly stated in widely available official documentation from Badland Aircraft, such as their website or kit specifications. However, based on discussions within the ultralight community, particularly from forums like the Badland Part 103 Pilots and Builders Forum, the Badland series (e.g., F1, F2, F3, etc.) is noted for having a "reasonable" or "exceptional" glide ratio compared to other Part 103 ultralights. This is attributed to its more conventional wing design, which contrasts with the higher-drag configurations of some competitors like the Aerolite or Quicksilver.
Ultralights, in general, tend to have glide ratios ranging from about 6:1 to 12:1, depending on their design, weight, and aerodynamic efficiency. The Badland’s construction—featuring a sturdy chromoly airframe, optional carbon fiber ribs, and a relatively low weight (around 247–254 pounds depending on configuration)—suggests it is optimized for better-than-average performance in its class. Community comments imply it likely exceeds the lower end of this spectrum (e.g., 6:1) and may approach or surpass 10:1, especially given its design lineage from aircraft like the Kitfox Lite, which has a reported glide ratio around 11:1 in some configurations.
For a precise figure, the manufacturer, Badland Aircraft, would need to be contacted directly, as glide ratio can vary slightly with specific models (e.g., F1 vs. F5), engine choice, and modifications like the tricycle gear or folding wings. As an estimate based on available context, the Badland Ultralight likely achieves a glide ratio in the range of 9:1 to 11:1 under optimal conditions, though this is an educated inference rather than a confirmed specification. For definitive data, I recommend reaching out to Badland Aircraft or consulting their detailed technical documentation if available.
I'm hoping that with the modification to smooth the top of the wings and using some 3D printed parts to make more rounded corners in areas of high drag, I hope I can get 12:1.
Todd
The exact glide ratio for a Badland Ultralight aircraft is not explicitly stated in widely available official documentation from Badland Aircraft, such as their website or kit specifications. However, based on discussions within the ultralight community, particularly from forums like the Badland Part 103 Pilots and Builders Forum, the Badland series (e.g., F1, F2, F3, etc.) is noted for having a "reasonable" or "exceptional" glide ratio compared to other Part 103 ultralights. This is attributed to its more conventional wing design, which contrasts with the higher-drag configurations of some competitors like the Aerolite or Quicksilver.
Ultralights, in general, tend to have glide ratios ranging from about 6:1 to 12:1, depending on their design, weight, and aerodynamic efficiency. The Badland’s construction—featuring a sturdy chromoly airframe, optional carbon fiber ribs, and a relatively low weight (around 247–254 pounds depending on configuration)—suggests it is optimized for better-than-average performance in its class. Community comments imply it likely exceeds the lower end of this spectrum (e.g., 6:1) and may approach or surpass 10:1, especially given its design lineage from aircraft like the Kitfox Lite, which has a reported glide ratio around 11:1 in some configurations.
For a precise figure, the manufacturer, Badland Aircraft, would need to be contacted directly, as glide ratio can vary slightly with specific models (e.g., F1 vs. F5), engine choice, and modifications like the tricycle gear or folding wings. As an estimate based on available context, the Badland Ultralight likely achieves a glide ratio in the range of 9:1 to 11:1 under optimal conditions, though this is an educated inference rather than a confirmed specification. For definitive data, I recommend reaching out to Badland Aircraft or consulting their detailed technical documentation if available.
I'm hoping that with the modification to smooth the top of the wings and using some 3D printed parts to make more rounded corners in areas of high drag, I hope I can get 12:1.
Todd