Four years after the Zeno’s release, it remains at the top of the EN D class, and we knew it would not be easy to replace, but after two years of intense R&D we finally have a worthy successor.
The Character
Our primary goal was preserving the Zeno’s legendary comfort and ease of use. The Zeno 2 retains the same cell count and AR in order to achieve this, in addition to more passive safety — improved response to front and side collapse.
Performance
The Zeno 2 profile’s new tech includes increased CM+ (reflex) and more rearward cell openings. This new aerofoil delivers significantly higher top speed, better glide, and higher efficiency throughout the speed range. With a slightly faster trim speed and significantly faster top speed compared to the Zeno, it now matches the Enzo 3 in top speed and glide. The top speed is fast, significantly faster than the Zeno (we have measured +7 km) and only necessary in a competitive final glide.
The Feel
Overall, the Zeno 2 offers a little more feedback compared to the Zeno, but always in an intelligible way. It remains comfortable and confidence-inspiring for pilots of the category. The heightened sensation makes it easier to sniff out cores, follow good energy lines, and feel the air. An optimised internal structure gives an impressive feeling of cohesion when climbing in thermic turbulence. A benefit of the covid delay is that it gave us time to fine tune the handling exactly to our liking — the turn response is precise and dynamic, with higher levels of agility than the Zeno.
Launch
The improved behaviour and cohesion of the sail is noticeable on the ground, with impeccable launching characteristics. The Zeno 2 inflates easily from any position on the ground even in nil wind conditions. Perhaps with the exception of the Zeolite, the Zeno 2 is the easiest 2-liner to launch.
The Pilot
The Zeno 2 is designed specifically for highly experienced XC pilots who fly at least 100 hrs a year and have a solid SIV background, and who need XC record hunting / competition-level performance.