> vehicles (cars) at over 100 mph, but I have zero time in a
> differential-braking vehicle, hence the 30 mph limit.  Leave the ground?
I
> don't think so.

Hi Gary,
     I agree with all written on the advantages of a test pilot, but I 'll
put in my 2 cents from experience.  I've made 5 first flights in planes from
a Hummelbird to a Glassair, a KIS two place was my first at 52 hrs. total
logged pilot hours and my experience was the same in all of them;  two
seconds after lift-off I knew I had it, it was an airplane, piece of cake.
If the plane is reasonably well built,  with CG in the recommended range, on
a calm day, with adequate runway, it's more a matter of nerve than skill.
If you don't have the nerve...don't, but I'll bet that ES is a big 'ol
pussycat to fly.  At 30 mph you'll be pretty much off the brakes and
steering with rudder.  Another consideration;  if my plane had a major
"flaw" that endangered or killed the test pilot,  I'd have trouble living
with that.  OK guys, I've got my asbestos jammies on 8^).
        Rich Kindig