Pilot experienced an asymmetric collapse while testing full speedbar on a Gin Carve 2 at 2,000 ft altitude in smooth conditions. Motor died during the collapse. Pilot had stowed brakes to avoid accidental input. Successfully recovered with adequate altitude.
High — very likely identified
During a speedbar test at approximately 2,000 ft (610m), the pilot experienced an asymmetric collapse while applying full speedbar in smooth laminar conditions. The pilot had intentionally stowed his brakes to avoid accidentally pulling them during the test, as he believed brake use was not allowed on speedbar or when fully trimmed out. The wing was trimmed fully fast. The collapse caused the brake toggles to come off the magnets. The motor died during the incident. Despite fumbling briefly for the brake toggles, the pilot recovered successfully with adequate altitude remaining. The conditions were exceptionally smooth with 10 mph wind at altitude, near sunset.
The collapse occurred on full speedbar in smooth conditions. The Gin Carve 2 is trimmed fast enough that collapses on speedbar are a known possibility according to manufacturer feedback. The wing is designed for advanced slalom and competition pilots who regularly experience and recover from such collapses. No pilot error - brakes were properly stowed, speedbar applied evenly, conditions were smooth.
Not deployed
Mostly correct inputs while reacting
February 1, 2024
Footlaunch
Gin
Carve 2
18
Just Out Here Tinkering
610 m
Experienced pilot conducting wing review, familiar with acro and dynamic maneuvers
Fully open
Fully engaged
4.5 m/s
10 mph, smooth laminar conditions at altitude
Smooth laminar conditions at altitude near sunset, 10 mph wind
No thermal activity, smooth conditions
Video transcript and analysis from 'Just Out Here Tinkering' YouTube channel. Pilot was conducting a review of the Gin Carve 2 (18m wing) and climbed to 2,000 ft for speedbar testing. Conditions were exceptionally smooth with 10 mph wind at altitude near sunset. Pilot stowed brakes intentionally to avoid accidental input during speedbar test. While on full speedbar with trimmers fully open, wing took an asymmetric collapse. Motor died during the incident. Brake toggles came off magnets. Pilot yanked in trim to ensure he could use brakes safely, fumbled briefly for toggles, then recovered successfully. Pilot noted he was at top of weight range for the 18m wing. After discussing with others, learned that Gin is aware the Carve 2 is trimmed fast enough to potentially collapse on speedbar and expects pilots to be advanced enough to handle it. Slalom and competition pilots reportedly experience these collapses regularly.