The PGK-1 Hirondelle discussed in other threads got me thinking about a modest E-AB two-seater optimized for smaller engines, say 100-125 hp. There seems to be a gap between the LSAs with 80-100 hp Rotax 912 power and the RVs and others usually sporting 180 hp or bigger Lycomings with a few exceptions including the RV-9, which is limited to and optimized for the O-320 at the most.
Looking at the Vans specs, even they seem to suggest that in many cases an O-235 would work just fine and be cheaper in the long run for some of their designs, yet you don't see many such installations. Then again, if I remember correctly, some designs like the Lancair started out with O-235 power but quickly moved on to larger engines.
Do folks think there would be interest in a new E-AB (not LSA) design along the lines of an RV-9 "light," in other words, optimized for good performance on an O-235 at the lowest possible cost, or does the "bigger is better" approach mean that homebuilders wouldn't go for something like that today?
Looking at the Vans specs, even they seem to suggest that in many cases an O-235 would work just fine and be cheaper in the long run for some of their designs, yet you don't see many such installations. Then again, if I remember correctly, some designs like the Lancair started out with O-235 power but quickly moved on to larger engines.
Do folks think there would be interest in a new E-AB (not LSA) design along the lines of an RV-9 "light," in other words, optimized for good performance on an O-235 at the lowest possible cost, or does the "bigger is better" approach mean that homebuilders wouldn't go for something like that today?
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