UP Lhotse X

2.5-LINER | CELLS: 51 | ASPECT RATIO: 5.6 | WEIGHT: 2.9 KG (SIZE S) | CERTIFICATION: EN/LTF B

As a 2.5-liner hybrid, our ultra-light LHOTSE X offers the full potential of the B-Class for long distance flights - with an extremely small pack size and only 2.7 kilos in size XS. The finely tuned handling and plenty of speed make it the ideal companion for mountain-enthusiastic pilots who are stepping up from the A-Class as well as advanced pilots who value safety reserves. Incidentally, the LHOTSE X is particularly handy for hike & fly and traveling thanks to our perfectly fitting CompressSmart packsack.

• At UP, the "X"; in the wing name stands for "cross" and therefore for hybrid 2.5 lines, which combine the best of the 2-line and 3-line designs
• Ultra-light fabric (Porcher Skytex 27 double-coated for top and bottom sail, Porcher Skytex 27 for the inner structure) with reinforcements where it makes sense and a small pack size
• Highest performance with large safety reserves at the same time
• Improved pitch stability
• Lively handling, new top speed and pleasant feedback in thermals
• Miniribs for an aerodynamically optimized trailing edge
• BTS (Brake Tension System) for the best possible thermal characteristics and handling
• Double 3D panel shaping & 3D negative panel shaping for optimum leading edge profile fidelity
• FSS (Front Section Support) & RSS (Rear Section Support) on top and bottom sail for high performance and stability in turbulence
• Lightweight HPR risers (High Performance Risers / Light) with the option of highly efficient "C" control

What is new?

The LHOTSE X is based on the KIBO X, also a 2.5-liner, which made the hybrid design accessible to pilots in the middle B-segment for the first time. The advantages of a hybrid are quickly explained: more power, higher top speed, clear line layout and - thanks to the ingenious design - no compromises in terms of safety and handling. The thermal characteristics have also been further improved, for example by increasing pitch stability. In addition to the lightweight construction and ingenious mix of materials, the lightweight HPR risers, which enable simple and efficient acceleration and C-steering, are also new.

What is C-steering?

C-steering is the control of the glider via the precise optimization of the angle of attack, as these systems work on 2-line competition gliders and our high-performance B and C gliders KIBO X, SUMMIT X, KANGRI X and TRANGO X. The term "C-steering" has now become established. With the LHOTSE X as a 2.5-line glider, we therefore continue to refer to the equivalent as a "C-steering system". Alternatively, we could also generally refer to it as a "rear riser" control.

How does it fly?

Agile, fast and almost too good only for the local mountain - this impression has been confirmed by feedback on the predecessor model. At the same time, the LHOTSE X is very easy to launch and steer. The brake pressure is moderate. This benefits long thermal flights without tired arms and helps you to focus fully on your next turnpoint. The LHOTSE X has already been tested in a wide range of wind strengths. In line with its use in Hike&Fly, it is also very well equipped for this and the speed system does justice to its use, while at the same time being easy to operate. Valley crossings and headwind passages can therefore be tackled with ease. The LHOTSE X also copes easily with turbulence thanks to its excellent pitch stability.

Who is the LHOTSE X suitable for?

Ambitious A-class pilots who want to step up to the B-class and advanced, safety-conscious frequent flyers looking for a versatile lightweight wing will feel at home with the LHOTSE X. This model definitely has the performance you need to continue honing your skills. The fact that it is a 2.5-liner does not stand in the way of this - on the contrary: as one of the very first 2.5-liners in the mid-B segment, the LHOTSE X makes this transition easier than ever before. Manageable extreme flight behavior combined with remarkable top speed is simply an appealing combination. It is not for nothing that the vast majority of pilots are permanently at home in the B segment.