Originally Posted by
N981MS
Kitfox is name with an excellent reputation in the experimental world.
If John put together a 4 seater with the same quality and similar flying qualities (not a small or cheap task) it would certainly sell. It would be bigger, need different wing, different engine options, etc, etc. It would be an entirely new airplane but it would sell based on reputation alone. Sell enough???
Van resisted the idea of side by side seating, constant speed props, and 4 seaters. He gave in, came up with quality products and we can see the result. He diverted from his personal beliefs to offer what the market wanted.
Bottom line is; what can Kitfox make money with? Are there enough buyers out there to share the 4 place bush market with Bearhawk? Given the overall history of Kitfox design and its current trajectory as best I can see it, I doubt we will see a 4 place from them. That is better for me at present because building one at this point is not an option but the next cool add ons for my 6 might be. I would like Carbon cowl please. Probably about as likely as a 4 place given that I have 6 with a Continental.
As for the poll I voted no. The majority seems to be going that way as well. Most folks here already have decided that 2 places are enough for them. Otherwise they would have built something else. The votes that matter most, however, are out there, somewhere, dreaming.