I currently have a Safire 2 209 (1.37), and have done 300+/- jumps with it.
Demo the 189 (1.51) for 25-30 jumps
Took the canopy straight from the demo team at Skyfest. This interaction was certainly a positive experience -- took my CC on the spot and sent me on my way.
Openings -- seemed to be a little more consistently on heading than my 209 has been which is surprising. Had one bad opening with twists, but happy to blame that as much on operator error. A good snivel and never really got smacked; typical opening about 800-900ft. As soft at terminal as H&P...
Flying -- lighter fronts than my 209, and the rears had a very late stall point. Responsive to any inputs, and I was extremely happy with the harness turns which I have been unable to really use on the 209 (size or wing loading I suspect). Can make it float a little for cross counties with rears or brakes which is nice, and I was surprised that I had to lengthen my traditional final, as I was over shooting my early approaches.
Flare -- every bit as strong as my 209, and the late stage is actually stronger. Without swooping, I typically use a 2-stage flare, and was pleasantly surprised that the 189 flew longer, requiring a step or 2 less.
Have been told that manufacture time is fairly short (which it wasn't when I ordered my 209 a couple of years ago), but going to try another Icarus canopy before I buy.
I am very happy with my Demo experience and with the flight and performance of both my 209 and this 189. Great canopies.
Safire 2
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in Main Canopies
Demo the 189 (1.51) for 25-30 jumps
Took the canopy straight from the demo team at Skyfest. This interaction was certainly a positive experience -- took my CC on the spot and sent me on my way.
Openings -- seemed to be a little more consistently on heading than my 209 has been which is surprising. Had one bad opening with twists, but happy to blame that as much on operator error. A good snivel and never really got smacked; typical opening about 800-900ft. As soft at terminal as H&P...
Flying -- lighter fronts than my 209, and the rears had a very late stall point. Responsive to any inputs, and I was extremely happy with the harness turns which I have been unable to really use on the 209 (size or wing loading I suspect). Can make it float a little for cross counties with rears or brakes which is nice, and I was surprised that I had to lengthen my traditional final, as I was over shooting my early approaches.
Flare -- every bit as strong as my 209, and the late stage is actually stronger. Without swooping, I typically use a 2-stage flare, and was pleasantly surprised that the 189 flew longer, requiring a step or 2 less.
Have been told that manufacture time is fairly short (which it wasn't when I ordered my 209 a couple of years ago), but going to try another Icarus canopy before I buy.
I am very happy with my Demo experience and with the flight and performance of both my 209 and this 189. Great canopies.