The Falcon 2 was the second generation of the world's most popular single-surface hang glider. Building on the original Falcon's legendary ease of flight and soaring performance, the Falcon 2 incorporated refinements to sail design, hardware, and overall build quality while maintaining the qualities that made the Falcon line famous.
Like its predecessor, the Falcon 2 offered exceptional slow-flight capability, light and responsive handling, and a remarkably forgiving flight envelope — making it the go-to recommendation for new pilots and the preferred choice for experienced pilots seeking a fun, convenient soaring glider.
Specifications
| Specification | 140 | 170 | 195 | 225 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Area (ft²) | 140 | 170 | 195 | 225 |
| Pilot Rating | USHPA Novice (II) | |||
| Va (mph) | 46 | |||
| Vne (mph) | 53 | |||
| HGMA Certified | See original Falcon (shared certification) | |||
The Falcon 2 retained similar size designations and weight ranges as the original Falcon.
See Airworthiness Certifications for complete HGMA and DHV records.
Features
- 7075-T6 drawn seamless keel tubing
- 7075-T6 drawn seamless leading edges
- 7075-T6 pre-formed battens
- Ball-type crossbar center
- Streamlined kingpost
- Rear crossbar haulback system
- Full leading edge pocket (Dacron) and Mylar insert
- Lever rear batten tips
- Exceptional slow-flight capability and forgiving landing characteristics
- Deluxe glider bag, control bar bag, batten bag, and Velcro sail ties
- Comprehensive owner/service manual and batten diagram
- Spare parts kit, team hat, and bumper sticker
Pilot Comments
"After flying the Falcon 2 225 yesterday evening at Marshall Peak, I've officially declared that I shall fly one until the Falcon 3 225 is released! I was able to climb out to 5,000' and fly for an hour. I was even able to out-climb a couple of paragliders! The Falcon 2 turned beautifully. I felt like I was cheating."
— Rod Clark, May 2003
"I just completed my Hang 2 training course. My first solo was Monday night in a Falcon 170. The Falcon aerotowed and flew effortlessly, making my first flight a wonderful experience. Thanks for helping to make a long-time dream a reality!"
— Mike Bourget, June 2001
"After a 12-year layoff from flying, I thought I'd give it a go again. I don't think I had five steps under me before the glider pulled me off the ground and I was flying! Did I mention that I weigh 240 lbs? What really blew me away is the glide on a single-surface glider."
— Roland Whitsitt, August 2003
"I'm very impressed with the Falcon glider, our courses have been much more efficient and safe since we started using the glider. The easy handling and easy landing characteristics inspire confidence in the students."
— Oyvind Ellefsen, February 2007
Service
The Falcon 2 is covered by several Technical Bulletins, including:
- Cable Maintenance (TB 19940802) — universal cable inspection procedures
- Batten Tip Replacement (TB 20020601)
- Spring to Lever Batten Tip Conversion (TB 20030909)
- Falcon Sail Mount Tip Webbing (TB 20030910)
- Lever Type Batten Tip Procedures (TB 20030922)
Spare parts for the Falcon 2 are no longer available from Wills Wing. For parts, check with Lookout Mountain Flight Park or the used glider market.
History
The Falcon 2 continued the tradition established by the original Falcon (1994–2005), refining the world's most popular entry-level hang glider for a new generation of pilots. It was succeeded by the Falcon 3 around 2012.
Falcon Lineage
- Falcon (original) — ~1994–2005
- Falcon 2 — ~2005–2012
- Falcon 3 — ~2012–2019
- Falcon 4 — 2019–present