mark treidel;n1118792 said:
Loftus,
You mentioned above the difference in the welds between the AR-1 & the MTO. Exactly which one (in your opinion) has the better welds?
Please note, this is what I said: 'Autogyro critics should take a gander in the difference in the quality of the welds etc between the Autogyro and the AR-1, pretty striking difference,
at least aesthetically,' I know nothing about welding, I have no idea which weld is stronger etc. I am simply stating that the overall finish on the Autogyro is superb, as it is on the ELA. The appearances of the welds on the Autogyro vs the AR-1 is very different, the AR-1 that I saw looking a little untidy to my untrained eye. I am sure the welds are extremely strong on the AR-1,I also know from the reports by people I respect that the AR-1 flies great, and the new MTO has yet to show it is as good or a better flying machine; my only point being that some of these 'details' of finish can really make a difference when selling anything, whether it's an automobile or a gyro.Autogyro actually did have problems with the welds of their early MTO-3's and apparently have resolved these problems. So I am simply making the point that the new MTO, as is the case with the Cavalon and Calidus exhibits a very high quality finish, at least to the eye. I know many consider this simply lipstick on a pig, but no different to making a judgement like this when buying any type of product. It's a tough market out there...............
My overall impression of the new MTO at this point is that Autogyro have made significant upgrades in the MTO as a more comfortable and capable touring machine. The seat and pedal adjustability etc, roll trim addition, 25 gallon tank, larger more wraparound windscreens front and back, more storage options etc - these are the changes that are immediately evident to me without getting off the ground. How it flies, nobody, including US Autogyro people, yet know, as the one on display is not even fully assembled, but their are differences that are immediately obvious like the tail and the head, that may support Autogyro's claims of improved flying characteristics. How actual build quality holds up, will only be known over time, as with any brand. And I hope to get a ride in the new MTO as soon as possible.