Aerotow Circuit Practice in the SZD-51 Junior

Practicing circuits on a paved runway is beneficial for us glider guys as we spend most of our time on soft-field/grass strips as it allows for better directional control and reduced wear on the wing skids. The difference in rudder control sensitivity is noticeable takeoff roll. The increase in grip of the tyres means less rudder input is required. As gliders are sensitive machines, any input is magnified by the grippy surface of a paved runway. As the main wheel and tail wheel are on a single axis in line with the fuselage, it increases the sensitivity to direction changes.