View attachment 55993
RV-6A. 2002 model so one of the last of them before they switched to the RV-7/7A.
VFR only bird right now but we're gonna work on that. It's a darned hoot to fly for sure. Gotta love 167knots on 8.5-9.0gph.
What did you pay for it? If you don't mind saying. How about some panel pics when you get a chance. I've been leaning towards something like an LSA Sport Cruiser which doesn't have near that performance. Hoping to get find something the feds will allow part 61 instruction in, too.
The RV grin is real. Enjoy it!
Nice choice, even with a nosewheel.
In my experience, the maneuverability of it becomes a challenge when flying IFR. Unless you have a good autopilot, be prepared for a lot of scanning and rapid inputs to maintain attitude.
Don't forget to get a couple of parachutes and some aerobatic training. Maybe even fly a primary contest. It can be fun.
^this, go join IAC and head to Warrenton in the afternoons on the weekend when the box is openNice choice, even with a nosewheel.
In my experience, the maneuverability of it becomes a challenge when flying IFR. Unless you have a good autopilot, be prepared for a lot of scanning and rapid inputs to maintain attitude.
Don't forget to get a couple of parachutes and some aerobatic training. Maybe even fly a primary contest. It can be fun.
^this, go join IAC and head to Warrenton in the afternoons on the weekend when the box is open
Well, once you figure out how to do some instruction come on down. Lots of talented people there spotting/coaching each otherMaybe. Been researching this.
My RV is a little heavy....1116 EW. Aerobatic weight limit is 1375, and I weigh about 190 these days, so I'm really limited on who/what I can put in the airplane. I've read that teaching yourself aerobatics is not always the smartest thing to do. I believe I could do "gentlemen's" aerobatics in it if I was keeping the loads well under the limits, (2-3G stuff) but I'm really, really hesitant to approach that as a newbie because learning processes are fraught with mistakes and I really don't want to screw up and bend my airplane. Bit close to the margins for me to charge into that realm without careful research and planning.
To paraphrase Boromir, "One does not simply walk into IAC and the box at Warrenton."
Giving instruction away for free isn't good for business, but in this case it may save a life. The RV family produces good speeds from low horsepower because they are slick. This is a disadvantage when pointed downhill; backside of a loop, hammerhead, split S, half Cuban, etc... I would seriously encourage dual in some one else's RV with a better W&B or something similar before teaching yourself in anything that is as slick as an RV. Energy management is key when flying aerobatics, especially in RVs.
There is even an advisory circular for this.