American Legend Aircraft Company Archives

American Legend Aircraft Company

Phone: (903) 885-7000

Sulphur Springs, TX 75483 - USA

Sun ‘n Fun Day 5 …Wrap Up — Cub and Mother; Sopwith Camel Replica, Father of Ultralight Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || April 9, 2019 1 Comment

Sun 'n Fun is over. While staff, tent vendors and more have plenty of work to do, customers and vendors have all vacated the area, scattering off across the USA as they return to base. Some have a new airplane. Numerous vendors reported solid sales during the show. Pilots liked what they saw and a good economy is powering activity. I will follow up with a show summary soon. Following I have three more short stories. However, watch for dozens of new videos from Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer on YouTube and I will have further reporting from material gathered at Sun 'n Fun 2019. MOAC — "Tweety" got mine and lots of well-deserved attention (photo), being the very first airplane American Legend produced, back in 2005. The original aircraft was on display at Sun 'n Fun. Since the company has since registered 226 aircraft, Tweety launched quite a good run.

However, it was the Mother Of All Cubs that commandeered the focus of many show attendees visiting the American Legend exhibit. This variation on their theme has several wow factors. A handsome young fellow sat in the airplane as I approached. He turned out to be Luke, son of American Legend boss, Darin Hart. I looked again to see he was seated in the third seat. A strut maintains structure in front of the third seat but it removes easily with quick pins. Luke scrambled out of the third seat easily. "It's actually easier than entering the front seat of MOAC," said Luke. Those seats do more. They can fold forward and with some securing anchors, can haul a different payload. The seating ties in with a whole new "turtle deck" as Darin called it. Not your usual turtle deck, this six-foot-long opening runs from the trailing edge of the wing halfway to the tail. The turtle deck opens wide enough to allow an injured passenger to be loaded head first into MOAC. For three persons or an air ambulance, MOAC has plenty of power to carry about 1,000 pounds of useful load thanks to the largest Titan X370 producing 195 horsepower. Darin said climb performance is so strong, he plans to enter three AOPA regional event STOL competitions and believes MOAC can do well. "It's pretty easy to manage the takeoff to win," Darin noted. "It's landing really short that demands high pilot skills," Sopwith Camel — Robert Baslee is one impressive creator of old-time replica WWI aircraft. Every year for 30 consecutive years Robert has brought a new design to Sun 'n Fun. For a movie studio shoot one of his replicas was designed, built, and delivered to the movie set just 30 days after the studio's request. Think about that!

The movie people saw the precision of his replicas. These are vintage aircraft built as closely as possible to their original but using modern materials and techniques. Under the authentic looking exterior is a welded steel frame. Aerodrome supplies these elements for kit builders. Movie studios may stimulate a design, by Baslee's creations have also enabled a following that loves the vintage look. Of course, the guns in front of the pilot were not real …but they looked it. British military engineers invented a mechanical system to stop the guns from firing when a propeller blade was passing in front of the barrel. See their whole flock in this brochure (pdf); some are Part 103 ultralight compliant. Keep up with Aerodromes constant innovation on their Facebook page. Father of Ultralights — John Moody is a figurehead in the ultralight aircraft world. Going back into the early 1970s, he was one of the very first to popularize what would later become known as ultralights. Because of his vision and his success at showcasing what such aircraft could do, he acquired the label "The Father of Ultralights."

At Sun 'n Fun, as he has so often done, John flew an Easy Riser much like his original from 45 years ago. A mere 15 horsepower, shifting weight fore and aft to change pitch, no landing gear, no instrumentation needed. John developed an airshow routine where, for example, an angry bill collector so badly wants to bring down John that he comes to the airfield with his shotgun. Bang! A shot is fired. Off drops one of John's wheels! Bang, bang! Two more are gone and John's plane no longer has any landing gear. How will he land, the crowd wonders? No problem, as he'd swoop down and smoothly touch down using only his legs. These days John uses his full-castoring undercarriage so he no longer needs to land on his feet. Landing gear or legs, it is always inspiring to see John fly. He typically joins in when the powered paragliders fly at the end of the evening when winds calm. Ah, Sun 'n Fun …where else can you see things like MOAC, a Sopwith Camel and end the day watching the world's light aircraft fly?

Sun ‘n Fun is over. While staff, tent vendors and more have plenty of work to do, customers and vendors have all vacated the area, scattering off across the USA as they return to base. Some have a new airplane. Numerous vendors reported solid sales during the show. Pilots liked what they saw and a good economy is powering activity. I will follow up with a show summary soon. Following I have three more short stories. However, watch for dozens of new videos from Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer on YouTube and I will have further reporting from material gathered at Sun ‘n Fun 2019. MOAC — “Tweety” got mine and lots of well-deserved attention (photo), being the very first airplane American Legend produced, back in 2005. The original aircraft was on display at Sun ‘n Fun. Since the company has since registered 226 aircraft, Tweety launched quite a good run.

Summertime is Float Flying Time; Legend Cub Has the Gear

By Dan Johnson || July 13, 2017 2 Comments

When summer rolls around and the sweat rolls off, it's a perfect time to think about float flying. In the Light-Sport Aircraft or light kit-built airplane space, you are lucky to have a broad number of choices. This includes seaplanes (with boat hulls), floatplanes (land planes equipped with floats) or either of those on aircraft such as weight-shift trikes. Legend Cub is a modernized version of the old Piper Cub. Sulphur Springs, Texas-based Legend was an early entrant to the LSA world. They've done well enough under the leadership of Darin Hart to occupy the #5 spot on our all-time-fleet ranking of Special LSA; they are one of only five LSA producers with more than 200 aircraft registered with FAA. American Legend flew a float-equipped Legend Cub way back on March 11, 2005 even before the first Special LSA were accepted by FAA.

Legend's floatplane offering boasts advantages. "It weighs less than comparable aircraft, cost less, and came with the added advantage of doors and windows on both sides of the cockpit," observed the company. This design feature — not present on the original Piper models — is especially appropriate for float-equipped aircraft, offering egress from either side while docking. Legend FloatCub comes standard with dual entry doors and windows, dual wing tanks, a larger cabin, and electric start (also not on Piper's iconic original). "You have a choice of engines, including the 100-horsepower Continental O-200-D — the lightened one made expressly for LSA — or a 115-horsepower Lycoming YO-233. "Each provides plentiful power for serious seaplane pilots," reported Legend. Although popular with customers, many of the Cubalikes face weight challenges. Legend has worked to trim weight in numerous ways. "We're obsessed with shedding weight," said Legend, "but it's not easily done." On light aircraft weight is generally reduced by ounces not pounds.

Who wouldn't love the idea of taxiing down the ramp right out of your hangar and into the water like this owner can.

"With useful load maximized on Legend Cub designs, Carbon Fiber Floats are available for all current models," noted Legend, "including our open cowled AL3 and the Lycoming or Titan-equipped Super Legend AL18." Net weight gain on a Legend Cub with amphibious LF1500A floats is minimal due to a 75-pound reduction from removing the wheeled landing gear, the company added. This adds to the 110 extra pounds allowed for a LSA seaplane. Nonetheless, "Making an amphibious LSA was a challenge. The target weight for the floats was 240 pounds or less. The weight of our floats came in at 235 pounds." By June 2015, American Legend announced its own Carbon Fiber Floats. "Our floats offer superb strength, and are optimized for performance with our factory-built Legend Cubs as well as kit-built aircraft," said Legend. "Floats have to support at least 90% of the aircraft's weight to be approved by the FAA. We went beyond that. The aircraft weighs 1,430 pounds. We stress tested the floats to a 1,600 pound load."

Add a trolling motor to Legend's floatplane like another owner did and you can make a fishing platform out of Legend AmphibCub.

According to various reports including my own experience, a Legend Cub equipped with Legend Floats still feels much like the wheel-equipped model in flight. "The floats are aerodynamically smooth, providing some lift and negating any drag or weight concerns," boasted Legend. Jim Lawrence, who used to write for this website among other publications did a pilot report published in Plane & Pilot magazine's September 2011 issue. Here's what he had to offer: "Flying the AmphibCub is pretty much like flying a Cub. The control inputs require firmness, and response in pitch and roll are smooth and steady. "Water operations are deceptively easy, though training in all aspects of water operations is not only legally required but important. Flare is smooth and easy, and it's back with the stick, back more, and settles like a seabird. [Once settled into the water], haul the stick all the way back to avoid nosing over. We decelerate, come off the step, and we're water-taxiing. "Boating along at higher, on-the-step speeds over roughish chop feels completely secure, though we're only steering with the main rudder. Customers who fly the heavy iron rediscover the simple joys of flying in a Cub. It's more fun than anybody should be allowed to have." Legend Amphib Cub is priced from $168,400 in summer of 2017. Catch a couple video on Legend Floats here, first a pilot report and then an interview with Darin Hart regarding the development of their own amphibious system. Enjoy! https://youtu.be/kCjIRjnF_Pc https://youtu.be/eJtnoPhhDQA

When summer rolls around and the sweat rolls off, it’s a perfect time to think about float flying. In the Light-Sport Aircraft or light kit-built airplane space, you are lucky to have a broad number of choices. This includes seaplanes (with boat hulls), floatplanes (land planes equipped with floats) or either of those on aircraft such as weight-shift trikes. Legend Cub is a modernized version of the old Piper Cub. Sulphur Springs, Texas-based Legend was an early entrant to the LSA world. They’ve done well enough under the leadership of Darin Hart to occupy the #5 spot on our all-time-fleet ranking of Special LSA; they are one of only five LSA producers with more than 200 aircraft registered with FAA. American Legend flew a float-equipped Legend Cub way back on March 11, 2005 even before the first Special LSA were accepted by FAA. Legend’s floatplane offering boasts advantages. “It weighs less than comparable aircraft, cost less, and came with the added advantage of doors and windows on both sides of the cockpit,” observed the company.

American Legend — on Legend Floats (Video Pilot Report)

By Dan Johnson || January 30, 2017 Leave a Comment

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_WNs0ER_Qc American Legend is one of the first entries in the Special Light-Sport Aircraft space and it remains and industry leader with a full line of models and variations including multiple power plants. One of the additions the Sulphur Springs, Texas company made over the years is adding amphibious floats, now of their own construction. At the first-ever DeLand Showcase, we flew the Legend Amphib for this Video Pilot Report with in-flight footage including a water landing. Total Run Time: 19 minutes

American Legend is one of the first entries in the Special Light-Sport Aircraft space and it remains and industry leader with a full line of models and variations including multiple power plants. One of the additions the Sulphur Springs, Texas company made over the years is adding amphibious floats, now of their own construction. At the first-ever DeLand Showcase, we flew the Legend Amphib for this Video Pilot Report with in-flight footage including a water landing. Total Run Time: 19 minutes

Legend Cub Continues to (Slowly) Tear Up the Skies

By Dan Johnson || January 25, 2017 Leave a Comment

At last fall's inaugural DeLand Showcase event, I got a chance to fly Legend Cub on their own Legend Floats. I've interviewed Legend folks about this model, but flying one was still on my to-do list. American Legend Aircraft Company was one of the very first in the Light-Sport Aircraft business and they've now fleshed out their product line of pretty yellow taildraggers... though, of course, they don't have to be painted yellow even if almost everyone orders them this way. I guess it's a vintage look thing, but I'm here to tell you these Cubalikes are nothing like your granddad's Piper Cub (thank goodness, as Legend has made many desirable improvements). One of the biggest changes is the wide variety of engines this company has offered. They started with the Continental Motors' venerable 100-horsepower O-200, added the 120-horsepower Jabiru 3300 six cylinder model, then tapped the 115-horsepower Lycoming O-233, and now Legend offers the mighty 180-horsepower Titan, offered these days by Continental following their acquisition of ECi of Texas. Along the way, Legend also did a preliminary mount of the Superior diesel entry although that particular engine has yet to come to market.

If you are patient enough to go through all the material you can see something about most of these powerplant variations in articles or videos found on this site. We've gathered it all in one place for you if you click this link to American Legend. Get a snack and a cold one and enjoy all things Legend Cub. The company recently promoted some of their hard work. "Legend Cub from American Legend Aircraft Company continues to improve," the company wrote. "Since its introduction, the now-standard inclusions of a wider cabin, electrical system and double doors are amended with gentle strokes of progress." Some of those strokes come via the multiple engine choices the Sulphur Springs, Texas company offers. ALAC's Super Legend boasts the big Titan engine coupled with a Catto propeller. "With so much power up front, a Legend Cub personifies short takeoffs. As a leader in STOL performance, the Legend Cub is light footed and makes short work of getting airborne." What a fun way to turn modest amounts of fuel into major amounts of fun.

Your grandfather's Piper probably had few instruments on board, perhaps an airspeed indicator, altimeter, and a few engine instruments... every one of them round dials. These are simple flying machines that need little else. Yet in the modern tech-world with far more helpful information available at, literally, the touch of a finger for reasonable cost, why not have the good stuff? Legend Cub readily admits, "Cub has never really needed instruments for flying. So a glass-paneled Cub may seem the archetype of counterintuitive. Yet at the press of a button today's advanced Legend Cub instrument panel options broadly expand a pilot's navigation and communications capabilities." Legend offers Garmin's wonderful G3X and Dynon's trendsetting SkyView. You may also equip your Legend Cub with an autopilot and ADS-B for traffic, weather and flight information services. To some Cub purists, this may seem sacrilege, but those folks may be privately envious at such a well-equipped Cub.

"Far from being a comprehensive list, power and panel are complemented by a host of other options," said the Texas airplane manufacturer. Other gear Legend uses on their aircraft includes: Catto composite propellers -- lightweight and able to deliver high performance; bright LED lighting in the leading edges and wingtips help a pilot see while consuming less power; supersized tires allow Legend Cubs to master a greater variety of surfaces; and bungee-supported seats upholstered in ultraleather keep the occupants cooler on a pleasant summer day. My flight in November benefitted from wonderful 80-degree weather in DeLand, Florida (about 20 miles inland from Daytona Beach on the Atlantic Ocean). It was a great time to check out Legend Cub on floats. Learn more in the video below, including in-flight views and observing water operations. (See the same video on our page and skip the opening ad.)

At last fall’s inaugural DeLand Showcase event, I got a chance to fly Legend Cub on their own Legend Floats. I’ve interviewed Legend folks about this model, but flying one was still on my to-do list. American Legend Aircraft Company was one of the very first in the Light-Sport Aircraft business and they’ve now fleshed out their product line of pretty yellow taildraggers… though, of course, they don’t have to be painted yellow even if almost everyone orders them this way. I guess it’s a vintage look thing, but I’m here to tell you these Cubalikes are nothing like your granddad’s Piper Cub (thank goodness, as Legend has made many desirable improvements). One of the biggest changes is the wide variety of engines this company has offered. They started with the Continental Motors‘ venerable 100-horsepower O-200, added the 120-horsepower Jabiru 3300 six cylinder model, then tapped the 115-horsepower Lycoming O-233, and now Legend offers the mighty 180-horsepower Titan, offered these days by Continental following their acquisition of ECi of Texas.

GA Deliveries Decline Yet Tecnam Performs Well

By Dan Johnson || November 11, 2016 2 Comments

The world best seller is Cirrus SR22, especially the 22T for turbo.

Every quarter, like clockwork, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), issues its delivery report. I've used their data in the past (see HERE) and I appreciate the work they do for the GA producer community. For the past few years, these reports have not exactly been a bright spot, with fairly small numbers of aircraft reported delivered and trends sloping downward. Thanks to my LAMA associate in Europe, Jan Fridrich, ByDanJohnson.com also reports airplane activity, although Jan and I use FAA registration data modified only by our intimate knowledge of the light aircraft industry. Both GAMA and LAMA must interpret some info as these data sources are more slippery than you might think. For each organization the best info is that which you can distill over years of reporting. If the detail may have potential errors (usually small) the long term trends are more reliable. I want to give you a small glimpse at GAMA's numbers for the first nine months of 2016. I am well aware such info is not why you come to this website. However, as GAMA has coaxed a few of the larger LSA producers into its membership, I found some facts of interest.

Tecnam's lovely Astore resembles the Cirrus but costs a fraction as much.

The best news was Tecnam's numbers. This Italian company has been a major force in light aircraft production for years. That isn't changing; in fact, it appears certain to accelerate. From GAMA's numbers I ignore all the business jet, turbine, helicopter, and ag-plane data. That stuff interests me and most readers only peripherally. So, I look solely at their Single Engine Piston (SEP) data as the closest comparison to LSA and light kit aircraft. GAMA reported 601 SEPs for the first nine months, or 800 annualized. Of that, Tecnam logged 122 units for better than 20% of all GAMA SEPs. This does count all their aircraft with one engine including their Type Certified P2010 four seater as well as their LSA models, the latter accounting for 53 units or 71 annualized. GAMA decided from info supplied by Tecnam which ones were LSA, referring to their ASTM standards compliance. The GA organization leaves LSA out of their summary tables but includes those stats in their detail info. To compare, Cessna reported 127 units in the same nine-month period. So, short by only a hair, Tecnam produced as many SEPs as did giant Cessna. Both significantly trailed Cirrus, which logged 226 units delivered (38% of all SEPs), by far the best in the list. Other GA producers, in order, were Diamond (46) and Piper (41), trailed distantly by Bonanza (16), Champion (15), Mooney (5), and Maule (3).

Tecnam's P2008 is a handsome and popular Light-Sport entry. Tecnam photos courtesy the company

The only other LSA producers included on GAMA's review were Flight Design (19) and CubCrafters (27... of which 22 were LSA). Flight Design is going through reorganization and how GAMA will handle that change remains to be seen. CubCrafters, with 22 LSA (all Carbon Cubs, zero Sport Cubs) annualizes to 29 LSA and that is far off their hot pace the last few years. In 2015, the West coast Cub-like builder slipped from their one-a-week rate in the preceding few years and 2016's info appears to slow further. Could the number of potential buyers of $200,000 Cubs be dropping or is this just a temporary slowdown? CubCrafters has competition from American Legend and various European suppliers of very similar aircraft (SportairUSA's Shock), American variations (Just Aircraft) that perform even better, and still others with more affordable prices (Rans). All that said, Tecnam clearly looks like the strong company in light aviation with numbers way ahead of whomever comes second. The company has a wide line of several LSA (P92, P2008, Astore, etc.) plus the dual-Rotax Twin, the newer P2010 GA model and an 11-seater in progress. Good for Tecnam!

Every quarter, like clockwork, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), issues its delivery report. I’ve used their data in the past (see HERE) and I appreciate the work they do for the GA producer community. For the past few years, these reports have not exactly been a bright spot, with fairly small numbers of aircraft reported delivered and trends sloping downward. Thanks to my LAMA associate in Europe, Jan Fridrich, ByDanJohnson.com also reports airplane activity, although Jan and I use FAA registration data modified only by our intimate knowledge of the light aircraft industry. Both GAMA and LAMA must interpret some info as these data sources are more slippery than you might think. For each organization the best info is that which you can distill over years of reporting. If the detail may have potential errors (usually small) the long term trends are more reliable. I want to give you a small glimpse at GAMA’s numbers for the first nine months of 2016.

Superior Air Parts — Gemini Diesel on Legend (0715)

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 2 Comments

Only a few months earlier, at Sun 'n Fun 2015, we got our first glimpse of the Superior Gemini Diesel engines aimed at the Light-Sport Aircraft space. At AirVenture Oshkosh 2105, we saw an installation of the engine on an American Legend airframe. This rapid pace is helped by the close proximity of Superior Air Parts and American Legend, just 80 miles apart in the state of Texas. In this video Legend boss Darin Hart and Superior VP Scott Hays tells us when we can expect to see it flying plus other details of the development.

Only a few months earlier, at Sun ‘n Fun 2015, we got our first glimpse of the Superior Gemini Diesel engines aimed at the Light-Sport Aircraft space. At AirVenture Oshkosh 2105, we saw an installation of the engine on an American Legend airframe. This rapid pace is helped by the close proximity of Superior Air Parts and American Legend, just 80 miles apart in the state of Texas. In this video Legend boss Darin Hart and Superior VP Scott Hays tells us when we can expect to see it flying plus other details of the development.

DJI Quadcopter — Our first look at drones

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Lately the loud buzz in aviation is drones. Called UAVs, UASs, RPVs or other names, we'll just use "drone." Not our usual fare of reports on man-flown aircraft, we are just as intrigued as tens of thousands of others with this camera-carrying airplanes. They are radio-controlled (RC) but with autonomous flying capability should you lose radio contact or if some other interference happens. Come with us as we fly and witness the surprisingly smooth flight of the DJI drone.

Lately the loud buzz in aviation is drones. Called UAVs, UASs, RPVs or other names, we’ll just use “drone.” Not our usual fare of reports on man-flown aircraft, we are just as intrigued as tens of thousands of others with this camera-carrying airplanes. They are radio-controlled (RC) but with autonomous flying capability should you lose radio contact or if some other interference happens. Come with us as we fly and witness the surprisingly smooth flight of the DJI drone.

American Legend — Super Legend

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

American Legend is, well... already a legend in the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. With this Super Legend, the Texas company has installed the new Lycoming O-233. At 115 horsepower, the Legend Cub will be much livlier, great if you also want to add floats. The new Lycoming is a multi-fuel engine so you don't have to use only 100LL avgas. To accommodate the greater weight of the engine, American Legend took numerous steps to lighten the aircraft. See what items in this video.

American Legend is, well… already a legend in the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. With this Super Legend, the Texas company has installed the new Lycoming O-233. At 115 horsepower, the Legend Cub will be much livlier, great if you also want to add floats. The new Lycoming is a multi-fuel engine so you don’t have to use only 100LL avgas. To accommodate the greater weight of the engine, American Legend took numerous steps to lighten the aircraft. See what items in this video.

5 LSA Taildraggers

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Video viewers like collections of LSA where we look at several different models and review their differences. In this edition shot at the 2011 Midwest LSA Expo, we bring in representatives from each company to help with the details as we tour five models in a circle: Zlin Savage iCub; FK12 Comet; Rans S-7 Courier; CubCrafters CarbonCub SS; and American Legend Cub. Note that this video runs 25 minutes.

American Legend — Amphib Cub

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

The Legend Cub series -- the best-selling SLSA since day one -- is available in a variety of formats: regular land version, straight float version, amphib float version, and in kit-built form. Here we look at the Baumann float-equipped Legend Cub and we like what we see with these mechanically-actuated floats (no hydraulic weight).

The Legend Cub series — the best-selling SLSA since day one — is available in a variety of formats: regular land version, straight float version, amphib float version, and in kit-built form. Here we look at the Baumann float-equipped Legend Cub and we like what we see with these mechanically-actuated floats (no hydraulic weight).

American Legend — Cub

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

The American Legend Cub is... well, a legend in Special Light-Sport Aircraft. The iconic Cub look is well captured by this Texas company that has owned the #2 sales spot (#1 among American companies) since the first LSA flew in 2005. Legend has developed engine choices, offers floats, and even has a kit program.

The American Legend Cub is… well, a legend in Special Light-Sport Aircraft. The iconic Cub look is well captured by this Texas company that has owned the #2 sales spot (#1 among American companies) since the first LSA flew in 2005. Legend has developed engine choices, offers floats, and even has a kit program.

Greg Koontz’s Crazy Flying Act in Titan Legend

By Dan Johnson || June 7, 2016 Leave a Comment

No, he's not going to fly into the hangar... you hope, but Greg Koontz's airshow act keeps you wondering.

Probably you've seen an act like this before. A crazy-acting farmer or a supposed drunk hops into a Piper Cub or similar aircraft after the regular pilot leaves it unattended for a few minutes. The crazy guy has no flying experience but somehow proceeds to start up the airplane and to take off in the most out-of-control manner imaginable. As he erratically careens around the sky, handling the aircraft wickedly out of control, he nearly impacts the ground over and over. The entire act takes place within a couple hundred feet of a hard-as-concrete surface.

Even though it's only an act and even if the pilot is actually a gifted aviator, it's easy to get caught up in the moment and fear that nutjob is going to whack the airplane into the ground right in front of the airshow crowd watching in fascination.

So, you may look at the act Greg Koontz performs and you might undervalue the skill involved. Yet, Don Wade worked with Greg to develop this project and reported, "Greg is one the most precise airshow pilots in world. You have no idea how difficult landing on the truck is. You have just six inches either side of the wheels!"

Most of us are pleased to make a "squeaker" landing where the landing gear kisses the tarmac oh-so gently. We beam with pride should someone witness our skill. We're pleased to do a precision landing that gets within a couple hundred feet of a preplanned target. Our flight instructor might nod approvingly. Even experienced pilots competing on spot landing contests are pleased to landing within a ten or twenty feet of their target... and their runway isn't moving! An error tolerance of six inches on a surface that is itself moving, well now... that is really something.

Approaching for landing on the "world's shortest runway.

Koontz has his American Legend, awesomely powered by the 180-horsepower Titan, painted up to say "Bob's Discount Flight School." Hmmm, is that like a discount doctor? The Dodge pickup truck on which he lands is lettered with messages to resemble a plumber's work vehicle complete with a big rack on top. We're supposed to believe this might be used for hauling pipe and it merely happens that some crazy pilot might try to land a plane on top. In truth, as our video shows, the rack is quite carefully built to allow Greg to artfully land while in motion. After he touches down he tweaks the throttle to move the main gear into curved wells sized to the Legend Cub's wheel stance.

He makes it look easy enough but you can bet this is something you should not try at home without lots of experience. Yet the result is great fun.

After Greg touches down with the mains and cautiously rolls them forward into the wheel wells, he holds the tailwheel up as the truck driver slowly decelerates, allowing the tailwheel to settle where planned. Then, as the announcer goes on with the story, the truck driver again accelerates smoothly and Greg is able to lift off and continue flying. It looks so deceptively easy but it surely is pure deception. As I watched the video footage we captured, I knew I'd never try anything so crazy.

The crowd eats it up. Even jaded airshow pilots who have seen it all have to admire the skill Greg applies (along with his capable truck driver) in making the entire act work. The 2016 version of the act — the "smallest airport" — will include 16 venues that started with Sun 'n Fun 2016 and includes that summer celebration of flight known as Oshkosh. For the show schedule and additional details visit Greg's GK Airshows website.

Landing the Titan-powered Legend Super Cub... as viewed from the truck.

American Legend entered the SLSA space early; they were the 10th LSA to achieve their special airworthiness out of a list now 140 strong. They first used the 100-horsepower Continental O-200, later mounting the 115-horse Lycoming O-233, the 120-horse Jabiru 3300 six cylinder, and later still, the still-to-come Superior diesel engine entry. However, from the view of Greg Koontz and many other pilots, the big Titan does a terrific job and, following Continental Motors' acquisition of ECi in 2015, it might be said that American Legend returned to their roots.

Titan's X-340 engine, now offered by Continental Motors, is a four cylinder, 340 cubic inch displacement engine that produces 180 horsepower. Sulphur Springs, Texas-based American Legend said their Super Legend HP with the Titan X-340, offers "fast cruise speeds and the best ever takeoff and climb performance in a Light-Sport Cub." Company boss Darin Hart explained that to qualify as Light-Sport Aircraft, maximum takeoff power must be limited to five minutes with continuous output limited to 80 horsepower.

Others have used this engine and fought mightily to keep the weight within LSA's challenging standard of 1,320 pounds. Darin explained, "Special lightweight custom paint and carefully selected panel equipment are helpful to maintain Super Legend HP empty weight at less than 904 pounds," as required by FAA to qualify as a Special LSA.

Good job, American Legend. Great act, Greg Koontz. Pilots, while you might not want to follow Greg's aerial antics, I'll be you enjoy the big Titan power that makes the act that much more entertaining.

Catch the whole act and hear from Greg in this video...

Probably you’ve seen an act like this before. A crazy-acting farmer or a supposed drunk hops into a Piper Cub or similar aircraft after the regular pilot leaves it unattended for a few minutes. The crazy guy has no flying experience but somehow proceeds to start up the airplane and to take off in the most out-of-control manner imaginable. As he erratically careens around the sky, handling the aircraft wickedly out of control, he nearly impacts the ground over and over. The entire act takes place within a couple hundred feet of a hard-as-concrete surface. Even though it’s only an act and even if the pilot is actually a gifted aviator, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and fear that nutjob is going to whack the airplane into the ground right in front of the airshow crowd watching in fascination. So, you may look at the act Greg Koontz performs and you might undervalue the skill involved.

American Legend’s Greg Koontz Truck Landing Show

By Dan Johnson || March 2, 2016 Leave a Comment

In my years as a hang glider pilot — and for many friends who enjoy unpowered paragliders — the idea of what's called a "top landing" is something of the holy grail. Such a feat can now be rather commonly achieved, especially by a slower flying paraglider, but is nonetheless quite thrilling to launch from a mountain and then land back on top of that mountain. This avoids the need to breakdown, drive back up, and set up for another launch but mainly it is just a terribly cool thing to do. Still, landing a hang glider or paraglider back on top of the mountain is reasonably straightforward compared to landing an airplane atop a moving truck. Sure, you may have seen it done at airshows and perhaps you marveled at the skill involved. Yet I'm guessing that virtually no one reading this article has ever attempted the feat much less done so repeatedly ... and, by the way, at an airshow with lots of people watching and cameras recording everything. American Legend announced the successful completion and testing of a new Super Legend HP aircraft to be used in Greg Koontz Airshows' World's Smallest Airport flying routine. "Pilot and performer Greg Koontz concluded the tests of the Super Legend by successfully landing the aircraft on top of a moving pickup truck," reported the Sulphur Springs, Texas manufacturer. Koontz's new Super Legend HP is a stock aircraft that incorporates options specific to his airshow, American Legend said. "These include a Smoking Airplanes 3.5 gallon smoke system; a larger step allows easier access to the cabin ... and a 180 horsepower Titan engine," now marketed by Continental. Don Wade of C&D Aviation worked with Koontz and American Legend on this project. He summarized Koontz' initial reactions saying, "Greg [said] the airplane flies similar to the original Piper J-3." In his previous version of this act, Koontz used the vintage model Cub. "Greg is one the most precise airshow pilots in world. You have no idea how difficult landing on the truck is. You have just six inches either side of the wheels." Greg Koontz has been performing in airshows since 1974 when he was a member of Colonel Moser's Flying Circus. Koontz credits having learned his maneuvers from retired Air Force Colonel Ernie Moser, who he said was "the best in the business." To know where he will perform the "smallest airport" bit with his powerful Legend Cub, visit his website for a complete 2016 show schedule that includes 16 stops including Sun 'n Fun and Oshkosh. Super Legend HP uses the increasingly popular Titan O-340 engine, a stroked derivative of the Lycoming O-320. The powerplant is a four cylinder, 340 cubic inch displacement engine producing 180 horsepower, similar to the larger and heavier O-360. The company said, "Super Legend HP, with the Titan O-340, offers fast cruise speeds and the best ever takeoff and climb performance in a Light-Sport Cub." The company explained that to qualify as Light-Sport Aircraft, maximum takeoff power must be limited to five minutes with continuous power derated to 80 horsepower. "Special lightweight custom paint and avionics packages are available to maintain Super Legend HP empty weight at less than 904 pounds," to gain acceptance by FAA as a fully-built LSA. Super Legend was first offered with the 115-horsepower Lycoming O-233 so the Titan-powered one perhaps ought to be called Super-Duper Legend. I look forward to see it perform at 2016 airshows.

In my years as a hang glider pilot — and for many friends who enjoy unpowered paragliders — the idea of what’s called a “top landing” is something of the holy grail. Such a feat can now be rather commonly achieved, especially by a slower flying paraglider, but is nonetheless quite thrilling to launch from a mountain and then land back on top of that mountain. This avoids the need to breakdown, drive back up, and set up for another launch but mainly it is just a terribly cool thing to do. Still, landing a hang glider or paraglider back on top of the mountain is reasonably straightforward compared to landing an airplane atop a moving truck. Sure, you may have seen it done at airshows and perhaps you marveled at the skill involved. Yet I’m guessing that virtually no one reading this article has ever attempted the feat much less done so repeatedly … and, by the way, at an airshow with lots of people watching and cameras recording everything.

American Legend Running On All (3?) Cylinders

By Dan Johnson || September 24, 2015 Leave a Comment

Under wraps at the start of AirVenture Oshkosh 2015, Superior and Legend surprised many with their rapid installation of the new offering.

Darin Hart (L), of American Legend speaks with Scott Hays of Superior in our video interview.

Gemini Diesel was installed on an American Legend airframe barely three months after its debut.

The Sulphur Springs, Texas company has built an impressive line of Cub-like aircraft, available as Special LSA or kits.

We see and hear a continuing focus on electric airplanes including here at one of your (I hope) favorite websites. We'll continue to hear more about electric but the whirring motors are not the only innovation in powerplants. In true, another project with a completely different sound may be more meaningful in the short term and that statement is even more true outside the United States. As our Sun 'n Fun 2015 video shows, we have been following Superior Air Parts new Gemini Diesel 100 engine. The latest news in this development is a launch installation on an American Legend Aircraft Company airframe shown at AirVenture Oshkosh 2015 just three months after its debut. The two companies, both from Texas, parlayed their close proximity to one another to get the install done in a short time. Recently Legend announced they would start making the diesel available to customers. My expectations are that such an engine will especially help Legend's out-of-USA sales because in many part of the world avgas is hard to find at any price but diesels are good at burning many fuels, some of which will much more available. As Legend has ASTM approval, they can sell in a number of countries. Superior has announced they are pursuing ASTM approval for Gemini. The Sulphur Springs, Texas company announced, "We began offering a 100-horsepower Gemini Diesel engine as a factory option on the Legend Cub. The new Gemini Diesel 100 from Superior Air Parts is a high-torque, highly efficient powerplant. Mounted on the Legend Cub, the Gemini Diesel offers numerous benefits never before available to Cub operators." American Legend observed that Gemini Diesel can run on a variety of available fuels including Jet A, diesel, and bio-diesel. "While many see diesel as the future of aviation," Legend said, "it is indeed a nearly universal and increasingly available fuel today. The Diesel-Cub combination bodes to be an extremely popular option for Legend Cub buyers and in a growing number of locations worldwide." Superior Air Parts is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Superior Aviation Group, a leading manufacturer of FAA approved aftermarket replacement parts for Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines. The company sells a line of traditional engines often used on homebuilt aircraft. The diesel, derived from a British design, is a new foray for the experienced company. Superior's Gemini 100 uniflow diesel is a distinctive design employing six pistons in a horizontally-opposed arrangement of three cylinders functioning with a two-stroke operation. "Compared to same-class avgas engines, the Gemini is lighter in weight, yet higher in torque at lower RPM," said Legend. They also believe maintenance and reliability are eased because Gemini 100 boasts fewer moving parts, like most diesels. "At an installed weight of just under 200 pounds," Legend continued, "the Gemini Diesel is expected to deliver aircraft performance numbers comparable to the Continental O-200-powered Legend Cub." However, they note, "Gemini Diesel will produce greener operations with greater fuel efficiency." Reportedly, Gemini outputs much lower emissions, and delivers up to 20-percent lower fuel burn than avgas piston engines of comparable power." The Gemini Diesel option on the Legend Cub will be particularly appealing to owners who operate in remote locations and in parts of the world where 100LL avgas is expensive or difficult to find. "The Gemini Diesel option will really expand the reach of Legend Cub pilots," stated Darin Hart, president of American Legend Aircraft Company. In summary, the Gemini Diesel 100 engine advantages include: High power-to-weight ratio Higher engine torque at lower RPM Highly efficient, two-stroke diesel power Up to 20% lower fuel burn than conventional engines Runs on Jet A, a global fuel solution with better availability, quality, consistency and pricing Greener operations with lower emissions Extended range on less fuel Mechanically simpler design, with fewer moving parts Available as a Legend Cub factory engine option Hear an interview with American Legend boss Darin Hart and Superior Air Parts VP Scott Hays in one of our newest videos:

We see and hear a continuing focus on electric airplanes including here at one of your (I hope) favorite websites. We’ll continue to hear more about electric but the whirring motors are not the only innovation in powerplants. In true, another project with a completely different sound may be more meaningful in the short term and that statement is even more true outside the United States. As our Sun ‘n Fun 2015 video shows, we have been following Superior Air Parts new Gemini Diesel 100 engine. The latest news in this development is a launch installation on an American Legend Aircraft Company airframe shown at AirVenture Oshkosh 2015 just three months after its debut. The two companies, both from Texas, parlayed their close proximity to one another to get the install done in a short time. Recently Legend announced they would start making the diesel available to customers.

Opening Day Firsts: Icon, American Legend, Dynon

By Dan Johnson || July 21, 2015 Leave a Comment

I promised to tell you what was under the blue wrap disguising the powerplant on the unnamed taildragger in my earlier article. Here it comes with other opening day news from AirVenture 2015. Icon Aircraft made their first delivery of an A5 after a tremendous media build-up, as this California company has clearly demonstrated it can do brilliantly. Not only was a huge crowd in attendance but a large flock of young people in matching tee-shirts accompanied the airplane as it was towed down the main drag — called Celebration Way — to Boeing Plaza and the runway. The reason for the young folks was because airplane number one went to EAA's Young Eagles, but this is especially fitting as Icon has aimed their aircraft in a different direction than any other airplane maker with which I am familiar. One pilot who flew the A5 said, "It has an automotive-like interior. As a pilot I didn't understand right away" — he referenced a simpler altimeter lacking the usual three needles. Indeed, Icon has worked hard to make the aircraft more user friendly than the usual aircraft that presents an array of bewildering instruments that cause aviation newcomers to quickly assume they have a steep learning curve ahead of them. Icon again moved smoothly taking EAA president Jack Pelton aloft over AirVenture. Pelton obviously enjoyed the experience, using the words "incredible" and "remarkable" multiple times in a short article appearing in AirVenture Today." His complimentary comments echoed those of others who've flown the aircraft. I am hoping for my turn later today. Superior & Legend paired up for an announcement few expected. Superior Air Parts only announced their Gemini Diesel engine at Sun 'n Fun barely three months ago, but they teamed up with American Legend to show the new powerplant already bolted on a Legend Cub airframe. The two Texas companies are located only 80 miles apart noted Darin Hart, principal at Legend, so the link-up is logical and convenient, an unbeatable combination. Yet having an engine on an popular Light-Sport Aircraft was also a coup for Superior to show the speed at which they are moving with this newest project. Superior's Scott Hays said they expect to run the engine by fall and to move forward briskly with ASTM approval. Gemini has been originally developed in England so this is not a new CAD-designed powerplant; it has history. It extends the range of Superior into diesel, and that is surely more significant outside the U.S. As Darin observed, his company is having a strong year and fielding an increasing number of inquiries from other countries. In many places outside American, avgas is definitely expensive but often not available at any price. However, diesels are able to burn lesser-refined fuels that owners can find in more locations, giving American Legend an advantage for international sales. Dynon is well known to Light-Sport Aircraft enthusiasts. Even going up against giant Garmin — which repeatedly proves to be a very able competitor — Dynon maintains a leadership market share in LSA around the globe. They took over Advanced Flight Systems in the past and now has an offer many homebuilders may find compelling. Dynon suggested, "For those who would rather leave their whole panel to the experts, [our] Advanced Flight Systems division offers the Quick Panel System. Each Quick Panel is a fully-engineered and integrated panel of aviations that is professionally wired, configured, tested and ready to install." Advanced's Quick Panel includes all switches and harnesses, which all connect through the exclusive Advanced Control Module. More here. Your favorite LSA or ultralight may not have a wide panel like the nearby photo. Dynon still has you covered with their nifty little D2 Pocket Panel Portable EFIS. Even better, D2 will be available at AirVenture 2015 at the lowest price ever. "With a list price of $1,095, pilots can expect even better pricing from dealers at the show," the company said. Stay tuned ... more Oshkosh light aircraft news to follow!

Super Duper Legend Cub with 180 Horses!

By Dan Johnson || June 26, 2015 Leave a Comment

Get all the details at the company's website page for Super Legend HP.

Legend customer Jason is seen taking off at Narromine. all images courtesy of American Legend

Whoa, big boy! When you have huge power available, you need to ... well, go have fun! I've covered the Super Legend before (article & video), which had the multi-fuel, electronic ignition 115-horsepower Lycoming O-235 installed. Certainly that was and remains a solid powerplant but now the company has added a Titan engine that pulls like a team of stallions. Call it the Super Duper Legend Cub. As sales of Legend Cubs and similar aircraft have shown, pilot interest in Cubalikes is strong. American Legend recently logged their 10th anniversary; they've been around since the LSA sector first arrived on the scene. However, they haven't simply made the same old airplane in the same old way. Now welcome Super Legend HP. Before Sun 'n Fun 2015, the Sulphur Springs, Texas company announced they had added, "a host of new features for our Super Legend, adding functionality, comfort and safety to the lineage of Legend Cub aircraft. Standard and optionally available, these features range from advanced carbon fiber components, including the company's new carbon fiber amphibious floats, to the latest in NextGen and touchscreen electronic flight displays." Super Legend HP, the new top-of-the-line model for American Legend's stable of Cub aircraft, was introduced at the Lakeland, Florida event featuring a 180-horsepower Titan O-340 engine. Get this: Super Legend HP can leave the ground in a mere 35 feet and climb at 2,000 feet per minute, according to American Legend. The HP model can clear a 50-foot obstacle in 200 feet, said the company adding, "The Titan O-340 offers fast cruise speeds of up to 104 mph TAS at 2150 rpm." "The four-cylinder, 340-cc Titan engine is a stroked derivative of the Lycoming O-320. It weighs 245 pounds, which is 20 pounds less than the similar O-360," reported American Legend. The HP derivation is an upgrade of the Super Legend that was introduced in 2011 (when the video above was shot). With more carbon-fiber components and expanded avionics options Super Legend HP is available as an LSA, with certain restrictions to comply with the rules, or as an experimental kit airplane. To qualify as a Special LSA, Super Legend HP has a maximum takeoff power limitation of five minutes with continuous cruise operations limited to 80 horsepower. This procedure is used by other LSA that employ high-powered engines. For the SLSA model, American Legend uses a special lightweight custom paint and avionics packages to assure Super Legend HP weight stays under SLSA certification rules of 904 pounds. However, the company noted, "Super Legend's strength-tested airframe, up to 1,750 pounds." When sold as an Experimental, the same airframe may use the higher gross weight." To benefit from a higher useful load that comes with the increased gross weight, buyers will need a Medical and will build their own airplane. A very familiar supplier to the LSA community, American Legend is a leader in a crowded Cub market. Over a decade, the Texas outfit has built well-regarded product support for its line of Legend Cub aircraft. Launched as the SP/LSA rule was introduced by FAA, American Legend has firmly established itself as one of the most successful manufacturers in the space. "We have built a reputation among our Legend Cub owners and operators, guest pilots, passengers, and within the industry for designing aircraft that are true to the Cub form yet are modern, competitively priced, and built to last," stated the company. In addition to being a solid player in the light aircraft industry, American Legend has developed a full line of aircraft and components. Beside the open-cowl original and offering several engine choices, you can buy Legend Cubs in ready-to-fly or kit form plus you can choose AmphibCub. While floats have been available for some time, AmphibCub has recently received the full American Legend treatment and now sports in-house-designed Legend Floats. American Legend recently completed certification of its own Kevlar and carbon fiber LF1500A amphibious float design. Purpose-built for the Super Legend, the company's amphib floats use a manual gear mechanism that also offer watertight storage compartments. Focused first on strength and performance Super Legend AmphibCub is available with a wish list of features such as the much-revered touch screen Garmin G3X display. These options are available on most Legend Cubs. Garmin's G3X brings the latest in advanced avionics to Legend Cub aircraft. Available in 7-inch or 10.6-inch displays, G3X has been called "more advanced than modern airliners," reported American Legend. Synthetic vision, a two-axis autopilot, and fuel flow metering are just a few of the features. Keeping their vintage-appearing aircraft fully up with the times, American Legend recently installed and received approval of an ADS-B system. The company observed, "A far cry from early Cubs that flew without radio and transponder, the installation meets the FAA's 2020 mandatory compliance requirements for NextGen ADS-B equipage. The option includes a FreeFlight Systems Model 1201 WAAS GPS sensor and a Trig Mode S and 1090ES ADS-B Out capable transponder."

Whoa, big boy! When you have huge power available, you need to … well, go have fun! I’ve covered the Super Legend before (article & video), which had the multi-fuel, electronic ignition 115-horsepower Lycoming O-235 installed. Certainly that was and remains a solid powerplant but now the company has added a Titan engine that pulls like a team of stallions. Call it the Super Duper Legend Cub. As sales of Legend Cubs and similar aircraft have shown, pilot interest in Cubalikes is strong. American Legend recently logged their 10th anniversary; they’ve been around since the LSA sector first arrived on the scene. However, they haven’t simply made the same old airplane in the same old way. Now welcome Super Legend HP. Before Sun ‘n Fun 2015, the Sulphur Springs, Texas company announced they had added, “a host of new features for our Super Legend, adding functionality, comfort and safety to the lineage of Legend Cub aircraft.

Super Legend Gets SLSA Certificate #133

By Dan Johnson || November 15, 2013 Leave a Comment

American Legend earned SLSA approval for its Super Legend model. all photos courtesy of American Legend.

Darin hart (left) accepts a fresh SLSA airworthiness certificate from FAA Air Safety Inspector Chukudi Crawford.

Available previously as a kit (more on that below), American Legend recently provided photos proving that the Sulfur Springs, Texas company has now won a Special LSA certificate for the Super Legend, topping our SLSA List at number 133. The model has other differences but a key reason for the name is the Lycoming O-233 engine supplying 115 horsepower that gives a nice boost to its performance on wheels or floats. Super Legend will go up against the CubCrafters Carbon Cub SS (with 180 horsepower) and the Zlin Cub-S (also 180-hp). While it may not provide the same excess of power it is more affordably priced than Carbon Cub SS, although the latter is a highly developed offering that is generous in its use of carbon fiber, as its name implies, and in an overall sense of stylized design. American Legend noted, "The closed cowl Super Legend has the same power-to-weight ratio as a 150-hp Piper Super Cub. The Lycoming O-233 delivers 115 horsepower and delivers unlimited performance in a classic Cub platform." The company reported standard equipment includes: ground adjustable composite prop, traditional white paint with red striping, adjustable seats, basic panel (altimeter, airspeed, inclinometer, tachometer, oil pressure, oil temperature, voltmeter), 406 MHz ELT, 6.00 x 6 tires. As the order form for either kit or fully built suggests you can add a wide range of options including Dynon or Garmin glass panel packages (including radios and more) for $24-26,000, TruTrak autopilot for $8,000, AmSafe airbag seat belts for $4,000, lighting packages for $4,000, or floats at $28,000 for straight floats or $38,000 for amphibious versions. Other than the floats, all these deluxe packages take the lovable Piper Cub concept into the new millennia. Options also take the price toward $200,000 yet the appeal of the design is strong with both American Legend and CubCrafters reporting good or strong sales in a otherwise sluggish LSA environment. A fully built AL18 Super Legend Cub in the look of a Super Cub lists for $146,800 and as referenced you can bid that base price up a great deal if you wish. Those who want a new Cubalike but can't swing two hundred grand could opt for the kit. The airframe components start just above $50,000 and you add the Lycoming O-233 for $25,000 plus could choose a builder assist program for $18,000. The latter can help you build in as little as 21 days American Legend specified though they indicate "Extra building days may be required depending on options." Individual aptitude and degree of motivation would also be a factor. Pre-wired instrument panel packages will add $23-25,000 but speed the kit assembly process. However you may choose to select from the taildragger offerings from American Legend, you now have more choices and it seems likely that more of this iconic shape are destined to populate the skies. Legend president Darin Hart is pleased with the company's efforts of late, passing an FAA audit this fall amid the government shutdown and now winning SLSA approval for the Super Legend. Hart noted that the new model came in with "an empty weight of 862 pounds equipped with common accessories and lighting, giving a useful load of 458 pounds." He added, "The big differences, compared to other Legend models are flaps and aerodynamic tail surfaces plus the more powerful and multi-fuel O-233 engine supplied with 30 gallons of fuel instead of the 20 gallon capacity of the other Legend models. Super Legend first flew in January of 2012. For more details, please check our video interview.

Cubs at the Creek Plus a Peek into the Future

By Dan Johnson || November 26, 2012 Leave a Comment

Ron Bishop of Ventus LLC poses with his AmphibCub.

An immaculately restored 1955 Piper Pacer seen at the Spruce Creek event.

Piper's original Pacer and Tri-Pacer sold well in the 1950s.

On a lovely day recently at my home airflield — Spruce Creek Fly-in — local Cub afficianado Ron Bishop assembled quite a few of American Legend's handsome yellow Cub lookalikes. The affair, complete with the requisite hot dog lunch attracted about 200 visitors said Ron. They saw more than Cubs as a SeaRey, a CTsw and a Jabiru also joined the party. All were available for a closer look. Ron Bishop is representing the American Legend Cub line and displayed an example of almost every one, from the Super Legend out front (more on that in a minute), several Cubs on wheels, and the one Ron has been flying regularly around Spruce Creek, the AmphibCub. The outing was an occasion for potential buyers to select a Cub of their choice and Ron reported two did just that. They'll be smiling and so was Ron. Calling his new LSA company Ventus LLC (Greek for "wind"), Bishop will quarter his enterprise with longtime Spruce Creek FBO Yelvington Jet Aviation. Ron reported that the Super Legend is now about to enter production and should be available as the new year arrives. Super Legend is powered by the potent Lycoming O-233 engine (video) and that should make it a lively performer, especially when fitted with floats. The O-233 has 115 horsepower on the standard LSA version, features electronic ignition, and is a multi-fuel engine meaning it can use mogas (even with 10% ethanol), avgas, or a mixture... much like the Rotax is able to do. All this means when you float up to the marina, you can likely fuel up and not have to seek out an airport. The O-233 is now only a few pounds heavier than the more commonly used Continental O-200, which is why American Legend has been able to adapt the American-made powerplant. To assure Super Legend stays within the LSA weight parameters, carbon fiber has been used in many areas of the airplane. Get more details on our video. All that effort to accommodate Lycoming and to lighten the airplane will come into good use when American Legend sets out on a new project that Ron Bishop revealed at his event. The fresh news I uncovered is a plan to make a replica edition of Piper Aircraft's popular Pacer. The Florida company made their four-place PA-20 Pacer and PA-22 Tri-Pacer models in the post-World War II period. After the nose dragger model came out it outsold the taildragging Pacer six to one; more than 8,000 Tri-Pacers were produced between 1953 and 1960. Ron indicated that Legend boss Darin Hart is already at work on the Pacer variation, albeit with only two seats to qualify as a Light-Sport. That change and the addition of carbon fiber cowling and wheel pants plus other weight savings should help the Texas producer keep their version of the Pacer lean and lively. They plan to use the 115-horsepower, 2,400-hour TBO Lycoming O-233 just as on the Super Legend. Ron said he hoped they could complete the project by end of summer 2013.

On a lovely day recently at my home airflield — Spruce Creek Fly-in — local Cub afficianado Ron Bishop assembled quite a few of American Legend’s handsome yellow Cub lookalikes. The affair, complete with the requisite hot dog lunch attracted about 200 visitors said Ron. They saw more than Cubs as a SeaRey, a CTsw and a Jabiru also joined the party. All were available for a closer look. Ron Bishop is representing the American Legend Cub line and displayed an example of almost every one, from the Super Legend out front (more on that in a minute), several Cubs on wheels, and the one Ron has been flying regularly around Spruce Creek, the AmphibCub. The outing was an occasion for potential buyers to select a Cub of their choice and Ron reported two did just that. They’ll be smiling and so was Ron. Calling his new LSA company Ventus LLC (Greek for “wind”), Bishop will quarter his enterprise with longtime Spruce Creek FBO Yelvington Jet Aviation.

Super Legend — Lycoming Gains Among LSA

By Dan Johnson || June 21, 2011 Leave a Comment

Enhancements on Super Legend include lightweight carbon fiber components for cowling, doors, interior panels, spinner, and wingtip bows plus parking brake system and fuel access steps on the landing gear. photo courtesy American Legend

Check out the trolling motor on this AmphibCub... photo courtesy American Legend

...and this fishing rod holder secured to the wing struts. photo courtesy American Legend

Since the beginning four brands of engines have powered Light-Sport. Rotax holds approximately a 75% share, Continental has about 15%, and Jabiru has about 10% with a couple entries using the HKS. Oh, and one more... Lycoming. *** The truth is Lycoming has literally one or two entries, the best known of which is the Falcon LS, now rebadged as the Renegade. In fact the latter just installed what they say is the first O-233 true LSA engine from Lycoming. *** But the situation seems to be changing rapidly. Rotax still dominates and will for the foreseeable future; their 912 series is a well proven and well accepted powerplant. But here comes Lycoming. Besides the Renegade, Tecnam is now offering the O-233 on their Eaglet. And I've heard rumors of more such installations, potentially some backlash on Continental's transfer to Chinese ownership. *** Announced recently is the new American Legend Super Legend. "Super Legend boasts the same power-to-weight ratio as a 150-hp Super Cub yet qualifies as an LSA," claims the Sulphur Springs, Texas company, the number three seller among LSA. "A Lycoming O-233 Series lightweight engine supplies Super Legend with 115 horsepower at 2800 rpm and is multi-fuel capable, operating on both 100LL and unleaded automotive fuel," added American Legend. The O-233 uses dual CDI Ignition, has a 2,400-hour TBO and Legend installs a Sensenich ground adjustable propeller with spinner as standard equipment. Though "lightweight" is still substantially heavier than a Rotax, a very familiar American-made engine may have great appeal among Cub enthusiasts. In other ways, the Super Legend is the same airplane you already know, "equipped with Super Cub-style flaps, 32-gallon fuel system, and balanced tail feathers." Super Legend also features carbon fiber components to decrease weight, a body-conforming adjustable seat, and optional toe brakes. Standard features adopted from the Legend Cub are its three-inch wider cabin, double doors, and the ability to solo from the front or rear seat. *** What can you do with a Super Legend? My Spruce Creek Fly-in neighbor Ron Bishop loves to fly his AmphibCub on the water and at times to do a bit of fishing. Photos show a portable power unit with battery and depth finder with digital readout to serve this purpose. You can also accessorize with a fishing rod holder. Sound good?

LSA Before and After Sun ‘n Fun 2011

By Dan Johnson || March 15, 2011 Leave a Comment

It's a great thing when a plan comes together. Consider an extension of the LSA Tour that debuted after Sebring 2011. Then, five or six brands flew around to a half dozen Florida airports and showed their LSA to groups of varying sizes. It was a first attempt, planned rather late without sufficient time to promote. *** The next tour is also working to pull itself together but the group has plans including summer tours, a website and more. The concept definitely works and here's a fact: Most pilots don't attend all the airshows. So why not bring the show where the people are? *** The Florida LSA Tour that took place the week after Sebring was principally organized by Bill Canino and Dave Graham. Bill's early logic was, "We're in Florida already and we have to fly home through the state after Sebring ends. Since everyone can't come to Sebring, we thought we'd take the show to them." *** The idea, involving several competitors working cooperatively, proved to be a success in the way that matters most to sellers and buyers: airplanes sold. Several orders were taken according to comments from various reps. It makes sense to me and to many others. We saw an early example of this "small show" concept with the EAA Sport Pilot Tour of 2005 and 2006. That 13-show series also sold airplanes. *** The post-Sun 'n Fun Tour is still being finalized but plans stops in Savannah GA, Greenville SC, and two airports around Atlanta GA. I'll have more here when the details are released. • • • Before Sun 'n Fun Remos is hosting an owners fly-in at Florida's Sebastian Municipal Airport (X26). On Monday, March 28 between 10 AM and 3 PM, Remos will host an open house at its new national sales and marketing office. They'll offer tours of the facilities, discussions about aircraft maintenance, a chance to fly the Remos Flight Training Simulator, free lunch, and, for those who arrive in a Remos, a free top off of their fuel tank. *** "The idea is to have a social event where we can treat our customers royally," said Earle Boyter, Vice President of Marketing and Sales. He also listed discussions about a Remos owners' group being organized by fellow owner, Don Thomsen. *** Like many top aircraft, Sun 'n Fun attendees can find a Remos on display in the LSA Mall with easy directions to their main exhibit. The LSA Mall is just inside the main Sun 'n Fun 2011 entrance.

It’s a great thing when a plan comes together. Consider an extension of the LSA Tour that debuted after Sebring 2011. Then, five or six brands flew around to a half dozen Florida airports and showed their LSA to groups of varying sizes. It was a first attempt, planned rather late without sufficient time to promote. *** The next tour is also working to pull itself together but the group has plans including summer tours, a website and more. The concept definitely works and here’s a fact: Most pilots don’t attend all the airshows. So why not bring the show where the people are? *** The Florida LSA Tour that took place the week after Sebring was principally organized by Bill Canino and Dave Graham. Bill’s early logic was, “We’re in Florida already and we have to fly home through the state after Sebring ends. Since everyone can’t come to Sebring, we thought we’d take the show to them.” *** The idea, involving several competitors working cooperatively, proved to be a success in the way that matters most to sellers and buyers: airplanes sold.