Hello all,
I am new to flying this year, but have had a lifelong desire to fly and build. After reading for endless hours on the internet, I find myself stuck in the decision about which plane to build (I'm hoping to get started later this year). I had originally looked at the RV-7, and loved the look/performance profile, but felt intimidated by how much work they are, and feared that I would never finish a job that dragged on for 5+ years. The skills and tools required also seemed to be more advanced for a first time builder. So I had resigned myself to building a sonex - I like these little aircraft, and they seemed to be getting done in a reasonable 700-800 hours, especially if ordered with the upgrade options.
But the devil's advocate in me says that if I'm going to build an airplane, I might as well spend my endless hours building the one that I really want. This has led me to look at the newer RV-14. They say it will take less time than the 7 given how advanced the kit is, and it has me reconsidering.
I do like the sonex, and could probably deal with the small size (neither me nor my wife are big people). But for cross country, which is something I'd like to do a good amount of, I'm concerned at the small size and the meager fuel capacity.
I know it seems like a crazy comparison to be deciding between the "cadillac" 14 and the "yaris" sonex, but that is sort of where I am at right now. Also, I'd need to sit in the cockpit of both and/or get a ride, but was wondering if anyone else had the same dilemma.
Thoughts much appreciated!
I am new to flying this year, but have had a lifelong desire to fly and build. After reading for endless hours on the internet, I find myself stuck in the decision about which plane to build (I'm hoping to get started later this year). I had originally looked at the RV-7, and loved the look/performance profile, but felt intimidated by how much work they are, and feared that I would never finish a job that dragged on for 5+ years. The skills and tools required also seemed to be more advanced for a first time builder. So I had resigned myself to building a sonex - I like these little aircraft, and they seemed to be getting done in a reasonable 700-800 hours, especially if ordered with the upgrade options.
But the devil's advocate in me says that if I'm going to build an airplane, I might as well spend my endless hours building the one that I really want. This has led me to look at the newer RV-14. They say it will take less time than the 7 given how advanced the kit is, and it has me reconsidering.
I do like the sonex, and could probably deal with the small size (neither me nor my wife are big people). But for cross country, which is something I'd like to do a good amount of, I'm concerned at the small size and the meager fuel capacity.
I know it seems like a crazy comparison to be deciding between the "cadillac" 14 and the "yaris" sonex, but that is sort of where I am at right now. Also, I'd need to sit in the cockpit of both and/or get a ride, but was wondering if anyone else had the same dilemma.
Thoughts much appreciated!