Moyes Malibu skyfloater now available in smaller 166 size for 2010
Australian hang glider manufacturer Moyes have updated the Malibu skyfloater for 2010, and have made it in two sizes: the original 188 and a new 166 for lighter pilots (awaiting certification).
The 2010 version has some minor sail cut modifications, and mylar running all the way round the leading edge. Moyes say this is to protect the foam on the leading edge during packing, and means a smoother leading edge that will stay clean over the lifetime of the glider.
The undersurface zipper now runs perpendicular to the leading edge, enabling the glider to be packed more neatly and avoiding crushing the mylar and leading edge foam.
There have also been modifications to the tip panel and undersurface, which take most of the flutter out of the glider (a by-product of its soft leading edge) when flown at top speed.
Designed by Gerolf Heinrichs, the smaller 166 has been totally redesigned since its first prototype in 2008. The finished product, Moyes say, will now have the same characteristics as the 188 if flown with an equivalent wing loading: the same forgiving stall characteristics, and a roll rate which Moyes claim will be “hard to match by ANY other single surface glider on the market, regardless of its size”.
The M166 comes with a small A-frame (8cm shorter uprights) but standard size speed bar.
Moyes are very proud of their small floater, and those who have flown it agree has been worth the wait. Moyes are now taking orders.
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