Ikarus Grasshopper

The Ikarus Grasshopper is a German high-wing, single-place, hang glider, designed by Thomas Pellicci and produced by his company Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci.[1]

Grasshopper
Role Hang glider
National origin Germany
Manufacturer Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci
Designer Thomas Pellicci
Status In production

Design and development

The Grasshopper is intended to be a simple single surface glider with easy handling and modest performance for flight training and school use. It employs a very large wing area, low aspect ratio and low weight to make it easy for students to take-off and land. Unlike many hang glider models, the Grasshopper is available in just one size.[1][2]

The aircraft is made from aluminum tubing, with the wing covered in Dacron sailcloth. Its 10.2 m (33.5 ft) span wing is cable braced from a single kingpost. The nose angle is 120°, wing area is 21 m2 (230 sq ft) and the aspect ratio is 4.95:1. The take-off weight range is 68 to 110 kg (150 to 243 lb) and pilot hook-in weight range is 45 to 85 kg (99 to 187 lb). It is certified as DHV Class 1.[1][2]

Specifications (Grasshopper)

Data from Bertrand and Company[1][2]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Wingspan: 10.2 m (33 ft 6 in)
  • Wing area: 21 m2 (230 sq ft)
  • Aspect ratio: 4.95:1
  • Empty weight: 23.0 kg (51 lb)
  • Gross weight: 110 kg (243 lb)

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 54 km/h (34 mph, 29 kn)
  • Wing loading: 5.2 kg/m2 (1.1 lb/sq ft)

References
  1. Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 46. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
  2. Ikarus Drachen Thomas Pellicci (n.d.). "Ikarus Grashüpfer - der Schulungsdrachen für den Übungshang Der Grashüpfer ist als sehr gutmütiger Einsteiger für den Übungshang konzipiert (German language)". Retrieved 23 February 2012.
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