Into the Vortex – Nova’s new two-line EN C

Nova have launched the Vortex, a two-liner EN-C designed for “performance and practical usability”, and aimed at experienced XC pilots with a passion for hike-and-fly.

It is a “lightweight champion” in this class, say Nova and “excels in everything that defines efficient XC flying – high performance combined with minimal pilot workload”. It weighs 3.5kg for the XS (90kg-100kg take off weight), which is 500g lighter than the Codex, Nova’s other two-line EN C.

The handling has been optimised for efficient climbing, while the low mass of the wing is another feature that adds advantage when it comes to encountering light lift. Nova say the rear-riser control system is the most direct they have achieved.

“Even small inputs of a few millimetres allow precise directional adjustments. Pitch control is highly effective, and the pressure on the rear risers enables you to rest your arms on long glides without slowing the glider down.”

“It’s the perfect wing to get into two-liner flying,” says Nova CEO and test pilot Ferdinand Vogel, who used the wing to fly a 169km circuit in Bassano, Italy last week. “Its low aspect ratio provides plenty of passive safety without compromising the flying experience. Even in stall manoeuvres, it behaves as forgivingly as a three-liner.

“For me, that means relaxed flying, more confidence in accelerated flight, and simply staying on bar longer. And the best part? It’s one of the lightest in its class – perfect for hike-and-fly adventures.”

Aspect ratio is 6.1, putting it at the more accessible end of the EN C spectrum. Additional features include nitinol rods at the leading edge, allowing the glider to be packed smaller and height-adjustable carbon B-handles for the optimal comfort.

The Vortex is available in four sizes from 70kg to 110kg takeoff weight.

nova.eu