|
J.P. Krucker of Sudbury Ontario Canada was at Sun N Fun introducing two new
craft to the U.S market. He has just finished redesigning the popular
Cygnet trike, (now called the Cygnet II) which has reduced it's weight
by 45 lbs. while adding a front pod with a windshield. The retractable
amphib float gear has also been moved up on top of the float for a more
cleaner appearance. The new set up also reduces drag on take off from
water. The floats are also shorter and 4 inches wider and providing more
floatation, allowing the floats to get up and plane faster.
JP has retained his two step float system, which he pioneered. This
system unlike a conventional float has a step at the front and another
step starting from where the first step ends which moves to the back.
This prevents the porposing action that Trike pilot's experience when
using a conventional style single step float. The new float design also
cuts down on the float splash, which has allow JP to reduce the prop
splash guard located at the rear of the trike.
A large water rudder is located between the floats and is operated by
the pilot via the nosewheel rudder pedals. The water rudder is fixed and
does not need to be retracted.
The beefy retract system still uses large Tundra style tires, which
makes for getting in and out of soft or rocky beaches, and rough field
landings.
While the craft on display was powered by a Rotax 65 HP 582, JP
indicates that of the last 10 Cygnets sold 7 have been equipped with
Rotax 912's. With this power "two
|
|
Explorer L 103, a true
part 103 amphibious single place trike. |
people, on a hot muggy day, with full
fuel, will be getting of the water in 4 to 5 seconds, with a climb rate
of 1,000 feet per minute".
JP indicates that he hopes to have the Cygnet II available as a
factory built
light sport aircraft by August of 2008. Currently delivery of craft is
90 days from order.
JP also introduced the Explorer L 103, a true part 103 amphibious single place
trike.
The craft with amphib floats a 42 HP MZ 201 two stroke engine, 15
meter Maverick strutted NorthWing ,2 blade Warp Drive prop, tachometer,
dual cht's and egt's weighs in at 311 lbs., 3 lbs below the allowed
weight for a float equipped ultralight in the U.S.
JP had to build 4 complete aircraft before he could get the weight
down under the legal limit of 254 lbs plus 60 lbs for floatation. JP
reports the plane flies more like a "little sports car than a big
trike." The Explorer L 103 comes with a 15 meter strutted NorthWing which can be
folded up in about 10 minutes for transport.
The retract system on the Explorer L103 uses the same style of system as the
Cygnet, the pilot pulls on a cable which releases a latch, and then
pulls one lever back retracting all three wheels forward, where they
lock into position.
Dropping the gear in the air is via gravity, release the system and
the three wheels drop and lock into place. The craft is equipped with
"fat tires" and hydraulic brakes.
JP also had to build his own 5 gallon aluminum gas tank to help get
the weight down.
For more information contact: |
