Hi Keith,
Your discussion and experience with sailplanes rings a bell so
will add 2 cents worth, OK?
Of course I have gone the sailplane route and our experiences
paralell.
Would like to note a similiar finding>
Electric powered Enduros, powered sailplanes. difference being
they make the launch and desired altitude so simplistic..
A while back I wished to investigate some Aerodynamic items
that were "those gotta do that someday" dreams.
I was into EP and found the Enduros ideal for comparison of
different styles. Spent quite a bit of time and learned much.
With a rather easy way!
Good luck,

Hal [email protected]