Handling Characteristics; Performance; Target Group - Nova MENTOR 3 Manual

Handling Characteristics

To improve the handling characteristics we were aiming for the precise
feedback of the Mentor 2 but we tried to reduce the brake pressure. The result
is a very agile glider, that offers slightly more damping than the MENTOR 2, to
relax the pilot during long flights, as well as in turbulent conditions.
One other reason for the easy handling characteristics is the small projected
aspect ratio. (same as on the MENTOR 2) This makes it comfortable to control
the glider in demanding conditions.
We were also taking a lot of care about the behaviour in accelerated flight. The
pressure on the speed bar is very light and the wing increases speed efficiently.
Combined with the high stability, it is very comfortable to use the whole speed
range of the MENTOR 3.

Performance

We increased the glide ratio by about 6/10 compared to the MENTOR 2, by
optimizing numerous details. The basic design stayed the same.
The performance gain is even more, than from MENTOR 1 to MENTOR 2!
We are convinced, that the MENTOR 3 will be on top of the EN-B class in
terms of glide performance.
But pure performance doesn't help a lot if the glider is not stable enough to fly
through bumpy air without collapses. The MENTOR 3 excels in such
conditions and cuts through turbulence with high pitch stability. Due to the
small operating forces of the speed system it is easy to perform pitch
corrections if necessary.

Target Group

The MENTOR 3 aims to appeal to pilots who have already gathered solid
experience with lower rated gliders as well as to pilots who usually fly higher
rated wings and who are looking for more passive safety. Due to the
outstanding performance, the MENTOR 3 is very interesting for XC pilots,
who are looking for an excellent balance between performance and safety.
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