Gyro_Kai
10-29-2008, 03:46 AM
Last weekend I had the opportunity to get my first ride in a Xenon. All I can say is:
Wow!
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50666&stc=1&d=1225280563
Let’s start with the only 2 downsides:
For start and climb-out a few more horses would be great.
Due to the weight-limitations in Germany the only approved model is the 100 hp 912ULS version but I know there are some serious weight saving initiatives going on at Celiers.
Secondly the rotor break could be more effective.
But then:
Fantastic comfort and heated cabin. A completely different experience.
The view is awesome, because you do not have the cockpit and in MT03 the half-fuselage blocking out everything in front below you.
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50667&stc=1&d=1225280563
The smooth and quiet ride is great. What really surprised me was, how little stick-shake there is. You could have put a drink (small) on the stick and it would stay there. When you let go of the stick it is wonderfully stable, flying in a straight line without interaction.
The rudder is very effective and must be used with caution. It will give you all you need in a x-wind-landing.
The reaction to any controls movement is prompt as you may expect.
The cockpit is well positioned, well sorted, even has lights. The pre-rotator-throttle combo works with ease. The trim, the little rope in front, first made me a bit nervous, but even without trim there is very little holding-force needed. The string gives you very good control over the trim.
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50668&stc=1&d=1225280563
This model also has an Ivoprop adjustable prop, which further increased performance and comfort. We were flying 140 kph (88 mph) easily, and could go to almost 160 kph (100mph), all GPS speeds.
I made a lousy duckwalk landing but the wide stance and good suspension of the main gear was forgiving. Have to better adjust to the sideways seating.
Congratulations to Raphael, this is really a great design. Did I mention the baggage compartment behind the seats and the arm rest glove-box?
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50669&stc=1&d=1225280563
Kai.
Wow!
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50666&stc=1&d=1225280563
Let’s start with the only 2 downsides:
For start and climb-out a few more horses would be great.
Due to the weight-limitations in Germany the only approved model is the 100 hp 912ULS version but I know there are some serious weight saving initiatives going on at Celiers.
Secondly the rotor break could be more effective.
But then:
Fantastic comfort and heated cabin. A completely different experience.
The view is awesome, because you do not have the cockpit and in MT03 the half-fuselage blocking out everything in front below you.
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50667&stc=1&d=1225280563
The smooth and quiet ride is great. What really surprised me was, how little stick-shake there is. You could have put a drink (small) on the stick and it would stay there. When you let go of the stick it is wonderfully stable, flying in a straight line without interaction.
The rudder is very effective and must be used with caution. It will give you all you need in a x-wind-landing.
The reaction to any controls movement is prompt as you may expect.
The cockpit is well positioned, well sorted, even has lights. The pre-rotator-throttle combo works with ease. The trim, the little rope in front, first made me a bit nervous, but even without trim there is very little holding-force needed. The string gives you very good control over the trim.
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50668&stc=1&d=1225280563
This model also has an Ivoprop adjustable prop, which further increased performance and comfort. We were flying 140 kph (88 mph) easily, and could go to almost 160 kph (100mph), all GPS speeds.
I made a lousy duckwalk landing but the wide stance and good suspension of the main gear was forgiving. Have to better adjust to the sideways seating.
Congratulations to Raphael, this is really a great design. Did I mention the baggage compartment behind the seats and the arm rest glove-box?
http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=50669&stc=1&d=1225280563
Kai.