RivetBangers.com

Hi,

I started talking flying lessons recently, and it is my life long dream to build an airplane. I filled in both the RV-8A and RV-9A empennage orderforms and I am very doubtfull wich one I should send to Van's.

Taking into account that I live in Belgium ( high petrol costs !, high cost everything !) are there any reasons not building an RV8A ( the one I prefer ).
Thanks for any comments .
Hugo

It would seem to me that fuel burn is really related to the size of the engine that you put on the aircraft for the most part (ie how much HP you are using). If you put a O-320 on either aircraft your fuel rates probably become about equal. It might even be better on the 8 as I think it probably generates a bit less drag. So the question would come down to which one would you want if the fuel costs are equal ? The other way of looking at it is that this will be a very long project, do the one you want.


-- John

If you build the 9, then want to start flying aerobatics (which you probably will whether you know it or not), you'll regret choosing the 9. On the other hand, if you choose the 7 but never end up flying aerobatics, you're not out anything.

I think you're comparing apples to oranges. If you want tandem seating then you have to get the -8. If you don't care about the seating configuration then you should compare the -7 and -9.

Having built a -6, I think someone like yourself (new pilot, concerned about costs) should without questions go for a -9. It is A LOT easier to fly and has fairly decent performance using a smaller more fuel efficient engine (e.g., 125HP). The big wings on the -9 provide it that advantage. I think for flying around Europe and given the fuel costs and 125HP engine in a -9 would be great.

I flew a Pulsar one time with 80PH and was blow away by the performance. You really don't need a lot of HP if you have a lot of wing and a light plane.

Hope that helps.

grant-

I have been in the same fix/which one?
I would choose the"A" model. the reason is resale. Many potential buyers are gun-shy when it come to taildraggers. But I really like the looks of the 8A, "fighter" style. My preference too!

But the 9A is what I would purchase, because it is side by side and bigger wing. If I were to obtain a IFR rating the instructor would be abel to see the instrumrnts and give instruction.
I rode in an 8A model.
No back seat instruments, no rudder pedals and brakes. It did have a stick and I really enjoyed flying the plane.
Just my thoughts on the subject for what it is worth--very little.
Have a great time flying.
Dave

Build a tricycle: insurance.
Build a side by side: you wife or friend will like it better.
Build a RV9A: lowest stall and sink rate.
Build a RV9A: good cross country handling.
Build a RV9A: good speed and easy handling.

period. no discussion.

If you want slow stall speed, and low sink rate, and factory (Cessna/Piper) type handling airplane, then the 9 is for you. But, build what you like, as if you don't, you won't be happy. If you want centerline seating, then your choice is 4 or 8. Side by side, then 6/7/9. If you want aerobatics, then the 6/7 is your choice. If you can fly a tailwheel, then build what you prefer. If all your time is in tricycle gear, then build the "A" version of your choice. It's not that tough of a choice if you build what you REALLY want. You will make the sacrifices for it. That's why I chose the F-1 Rocket, as it was the only choice for me.

Build what you want or you won't be putting the proper effort into it.

Of course---------Rocket guys have more money than some of us