The Whisper motorglider from South Africa, designed by Russell Phillips in 2004, served admirably in its intended role as a long-winged self-launching soaring aircraft boosted aloft by an 80-hp Jabiru, Limbach or Rotax engine. But with over 30 Whispers flying, there was obviously a potential for more capability in the sleek little composite cruiser. Exchanging the extended 52.5-foot wings for a mere 122 square feet of wing area, shortening the overall length, and installing a four-cylinder Lycoming of 160 to 200 hp has created the Whisper X350 Generation II, the "350" signifying a design top speed target of 350 kph, roughly 190 knots.
I have had the privilege of meeting Delbert and seeing this airplane first hand at his dealership. Beautiful airplane, excellent craftsmanship, represented by a pleasant, friendly, and knowledgeable dealer. This airplane has some serious cross-country chops. Definitely worth looking at for an efficient, sturdy cross country machine. Enjoyed the article.
I registered just to answer your question. Pretty neat aren’t they? $5 “Side Window Shade” from AutoZone. Thanks to a pair, my goose remained uncooked on a sunny 2000 mile cross country across-the-country trip in a new-to-me canopied motoglider recently. The frames are very flexible and they twisty-foldie into a 6" x 6" bag. As you can see in the photo, the fabric is a bit delicate, so it’s rather easy to pull the suction cups through, but make a new hole and you’re good to go. The best $/value ratio I’ve ever spent on aviation!