XIX Smile

The XIX Smile is a Swiss single-place paraglider that was designed by Michi Kobler and produced by XIX GmbH of Kronbühl, introduced in 2003. It is now out of production.[1]

Smile
Role Paraglider
National origin Switzerland
Manufacturer XIX GmbH
Designer Michi Kobler
Introduction 2003
Status Production completed
Unit cost
€2,043 (Smile M, 2004)

Design and development

The Smile was designed as a beginner glider for the flight training role. The models are each named for their relative size.[1]

Operational history

Reviewer Noel Bertrand described the Smile in a 2003 review as having, "all the quality of construction and performance of the more sophisticated XIX products".[1]

Variants
Smile S
Small-sized model for lighter pilots. Its 11.4 m (37.4 ft) span wing has a wing area of 25.5 m2 (274 sq ft), 42 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.05:1. The pilot weight range is 65 to 85 kg (143 to 187 lb). The glider model is Deutscher Hängegleiterverband e.V. (DHV) 1 certified.[1]
Smile M
Mid-sized model for medium-weight pilots. Its 12 m (39.4 ft) span wing has a wing area of 27.3 m2 (294 sq ft), 42 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.05:1. The pilot weight range is 80 to 100 kg (176 to 220 lb){. The glider model is DHV 1 certified.[1]
Smile L
Large-sized model for heavier pilots. Its 12.7 m (41.7 ft) span wing has a wing area of 29.1 m2 (313 sq ft), 42 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.05:1. The pilot weight range is 95 to 120 kg (209 to 265 lb). The glider model is DHV 1 certified.[1]

Specifications (Smile M)

Data from Bertrand[1]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Wingspan: 12 m (39 ft 4 in)
  • Wing area: 27.3 m2 (294 sq ft)
  • Aspect ratio: 5.05:1

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 46 km/h (29 mph, 25 kn)
  • Rate of sink: 1.2 m/s (240 ft/min)
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References
  1. Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 38. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
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