Hello,

I have just begun to believe that I could successfully build and fly an airplane.  As such, I joined this mail list and have started reading your comments, questions, & concerns.  The help you are providing each other seems to be valuable.

In just a few weeks of reading two airplanes will easily fit my need and allow for growth, the RV-10 and Velocity XLRG.  Of the two, I favor the RV for its better STOL capabilities and low speed landings.  There are benefits to a pusher style drive system (besides a quieter ride), the Velocity is a good looking plane (that has to count for something).

So, my question to you all is, for those who fly a canard style airplane, what were the top reasons you chose this style of aircraft to build and fly?

Thank you;

J.D. Grubbs
Dreaming in Port Orchard, WA
360-434-2120 (C)

J.D.

 The biggest difference is the mission of the two planes. I have looked at both kits as well. The Velocity is a fast flier that has a much longer landing distance, with somewhat lower payload. Canards are usually better on efficiency, with good range.  (I can't last longer than about 3-4 hours anyway.) The Velocity is not well equipped for landing on anything but long paved runways. The Velocity has a narrower cockpit not suitable to larger pilots. Even what they call the "bubba" version isn't that wide inside. The RG version is considered a complex aircraft and has higher insurance premiums.

 The RV-10 is fixed gear conventional low wing aircraft. The mission is somewhat more "utility" than the Velocity. RVs have short takeoff and landing distances, it's like a trademark. The RV has a roomier cockpit which is important to me since I'm a bigger guy. Fixed gear and a good rep for low-speed landings helps insurance rates on the RV. Lastly Vans has the largest flying fleet of kits in the field and is a very stable company.

 To wrap up Velocity: faster, more complex, probably more efficient (mileage), more difficult landing and takeoff (requires longer runways), looks cool, higher insurance rates, lower payload. RV: simpler, more room, higher payload, lower speed (about 200 MPH), shorter range with standard tanks. Much lower landing and takeoff speed, and shorter distances, lower insurance, better rough field capability. Looks more "Spam" like. Stable company. While it might not be a big factor for you RV's usually have a higher resale value. 

Do you want speed or utility? The Velocity will cost more to finish being a retractable plane. The RV-10 is aluminum, with THOUSANDS of tedious rivets. The Velocity will test your resistance to epoxy. The final choice is always yours!

 

Bill Jepson (I went RV. I needed the cockpit room and desired payload over speed)