I have always liked the ALCO Sportplane (Allison Airplane Co., Lawrence, Kansas) from the 1930 Flying and Glider Manual, still available from EAA. It was advertised at the time as a single-seater with an optional second seat, presumably really a 1+1 for taking the occasional passenger for a short hop.
So, what about an updated version, really a new design but emulating the style and layout of the original? I'd keep the original, narrow 24" inch fuselage and motorcycle wheels as well as the 1+1 seating--no dual controls, just a second seat close behind and straddling the pilot's seat like a motorcycle. VW power for low cost, light weight and big wing area for decent take-off and climb performance with that engine, though certainly not fast.
Here's a pic of an original, and nice shot of a model that captures some of the flavor of the design.
What do you think?
Cheers,
Matthew
So, what about an updated version, really a new design but emulating the style and layout of the original? I'd keep the original, narrow 24" inch fuselage and motorcycle wheels as well as the 1+1 seating--no dual controls, just a second seat close behind and straddling the pilot's seat like a motorcycle. VW power for low cost, light weight and big wing area for decent take-off and climb performance with that engine, though certainly not fast.
Here's a pic of an original, and nice shot of a model that captures some of the flavor of the design.
What do you think?
Cheers,
Matthew
