Transitioning from a DG400 Motorglider to a Ximango

[mwestphal]

Hi,
I am looking at buying a Ximango and am wondering about transition from a glider back ground instead of power. I have owned a share of a DG400 motorglider for 10 years, which is more glider then plane.

The Ximango appears to be more plane then glider and I wanted to know if anyone has move from the glider back ground with no power plane training to the Ximango and how difficult it was?

Thanks in advance,
Mark

[Jim McCann]

Mark,
We would be happy to have you join the fun in a Ximango. I would assume you already have a motorglider endorsement. My recommendation would be to take a couple of hours instruction in the Ximango to become familiar with it's characteristics. With two main wheels instead of one central one that you are used to, a few take offs and landings would get you up to speed. The heavier weight is another factor but you will find the Ximango a very honest, fun bird.

Cheers Jim McCann

[Steve Sliwa]

Hi Mark:

I agree with Jim. I think you will find it easier than you think to get used to the Ximango. I flew my Dad's Grob 109B before I got my power ratings and didn't think it was very difficult at the time.

Now I have a Cirrus SR-22 airplane and a Ximango and I really enjoy the touring and the soaring with the Ximango.

Note that if you look under the Members menu above when signed in there is a section called Member Maps. The map has a category for CFIs that are associated with Ximangos. If you decide to do the transition you could check with one of them near you. I am also encouraging them to list their services in our classifieds section as well.

I note that Jim McCann above has helped many people get into a Ximango both as a broker and as an instructor.

Keep us posted on your decision process.

[chuck]

Mark,

One of our earliest Ximango owners did just what you are contemplating - bought a Ximango as his only aircraft after owning a DG-400 for several years and being glider-rated (i.e. not airplane-rated.) This fellow owned his Ximango for many years, soared it mucho, including in Colorado wave, and flew it under power all over the USA. He used his Ximango to get his CFI-G rating, with approval to do motorglider endorsements, and instructed some of our new Ximango owners in the basics.

Back when he got his plane, his initial transition training was pretty much as you have been advised by Jim McCann. I would add a) first off, be sure to get a flight or two with a competent Ximango flier to make sure you like the Ximango and b) take your transition training in your own newly-acquired Ximango. You can learn in your own aircraft at your own pace, with the confidence that it will be straightforward. We at Ximango USA will be happy to help any way we can.

Chuck
Ximango USA - 7FL6, Florida