Hello to all Members,
I am new to the board and to flying. I will be retiring soon and have always wanted to learn to fly. The Sports Pilot License is the way to go for me. My mission will be local trips with some cross country trip thrown into the mix. I am currently looking at a used low hour 2015 Sports Cruiser located out east($135,000) and a brand new one at Sebastian, FL.($157,900). https://www.trade-a-plane.com/search?category_level1=Single+Engine+Piston&make=CZECH+SPORT+AIRCRAFT&model=SPORTCRUISER&listing_id=2340411&s-type=aircraft and https://www.trade-a-plane.com/search?category_level1=Single+Engine+Piston&make=CZECH+SPORT+AIRCRAFT&model=SPORTCRUISER&listing_id=2320820&s-type=aircraft I am interested in finding out how much baggage my wife and I can bring on a cross country trip. I weigh 210# and she is at 110#. The spec indicate gross weight of 1323# and 855# empty. Does the math work this way: 855#+Fuel 30/gallons at 189#+ wife at 110#+me at 210#=1364#. This puts me over the weight restriction even without bringing a toothbrush. I must be doing something wrong. Please let me know. Also are there other LSA's I should be considering? Everything I read speaks highly of the Sports Cruiser. I do not intend to create a dispute but I figure a few people have had the good fortune to have tried many of these different brands and have an opinion. I understand that the Bristell allows you to carry an extra 100#. Should I be considering this one also? One thing I have learned since joining the board is the service record for Sports Cruiser past and present. Would the current record prevent you from buying a new or used aircraft? Also I am excited to be a member and looking forward to my lessons and the purchase of my own plane. Thanks for you time and I am happy to hear all your advice on LSA's.
Coffeejoe