Kitfox 81WG flew for the first time today. It treated me very well. For a taildragger, it tracked pretty straight and came off quick. Climbout was awesome and kept having to raise the nose to keep the speed down. Flies hands off and feet off the pedals at cruise. 5100rpm got me 110mph cruise at 4000 feet. A real joy to fly. 2nd flight went even better after adjusting the idle setting a little higher. The view is spectacular with the bubble doors. Can see straight down and even under the plane. Handles turbulence like a dream and has much more control authority than my Aeronca Chief. Feels pretty much like the Chief when putting it on the ground. Engine runs smooth as to make me think there is a turboprop up there. Incredible feeling hit just after takeoff when I realized that "Yeah this thing is actually flying now!".
Thanks to all who took part in the project with their support, advice, and friendship. Thanks to those who put up with the 'this thing will never fly' stuff after going through the Skystar bankruptcy (read $$$). For those thinking of taking on a Kitfox project, call the McBeans and order your kit...now!
Regards, Wade
First Flight!
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