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CubCrafters is introducing its new top-of-the-line aircraft,\u00a0XCub<\/strong>. The new model received\u00a0FAA<\/span>\u00a0Type Certification on June 2, 2016 and is available immediately.<\/h3>\nXCub<\/strong>\u00a0is lighter, faster and stronger than any aircraft in its category.\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0also provides a larger payload and greater range. Combined, these attributes fulfill a much wider mission profile compared to any other aircraft in this class.<\/p>\n \u201cSix years ago I imagined a Part 23 certified Carbon Cub,\u201d recalls Jim Richmond, CubCrafters\u2019\u00a0CEO<\/span>. \u201cOur development team set out to design a Cub with terrific\u00a0STOL<\/span>\u00a0capabilities, like our Carbon Cub\u00a0LSA<\/span>, but one that could travel faster and farther, while easily accommodating all of the gear that a pilot and passenger might want to carry for an extended journey. Now, after receiving Type Certification from\u00a0FAA<\/span>, I\u2019m proud to say that\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0is much, much more than I had even hoped it would be.\u201d<\/p>\n XCub<\/strong>\u00a0boasts a cruising speed over 145 miles per hour at 75% power, and a useful load of up to 1,084 pounds. It is powered by a 180 horsepower Lycoming 0-360 that drives a Hartzell Trailblazer constant-speed composite propeller.<\/p>\n \u201cEarly on, when the first new airframe was produced, we discovered that our understanding of the Cub\u2019s aerodynamics was incomplete,\u201d says Richmond. \u201cThey fly nicely at 100 miles per hour, but at 140, everything changes!\u201d The company embarked on an ambitious two-year aerodynamic analysis of the airframe and all flight surfaces. That analysis motivated a fresh perspective on what can be achieved at both the lowest and highest limits of the speed envelope. Airflow over the prototype cowl, fuselage and wings was smoothed considerably. The sleek aluminum spring landing gear adds as much as 14 mph at typical cruise settings. Composite fairings were added to the attach points of the landing gear and struts. All new flight controls and empennage were developed, and the finished aircraft features a distinctive and stylish composite dorsal fin. \u201cAs we flew at higher and higher speeds, we discovered that the dorsal provides welcome directional stability,\u201d comments Patrick Horgan, CubCrafters\u2019 Director of Engineering and Product Development. \u201cCross-country pilots will appreciate the stable response to turbulence as well.\u201d<\/p>\n To refine handling, CubCrafters completely re-engineered the ailerons and the way pilots interact with them. Roll response was optimized by modifying the aileron airfoil and cove, and by re-positioning the hinge lines. This resulted in improved aileron response, lower lateral control loads, and natural centering. Traditional cables and pulleys were replaced with a solid push-rod system, eliminating cable stretch. The ailerons are crisp, quick, and light, complemented by equally pleasing pitch response and rudder authority. The resulting control harmony makes this the most balanced Cub ever.<\/p>\n CubCrafters\u2019 well-known obsession with weight extends to their new airplane. Contemporary design technologies put weight only where it is needed. Extensive use of ultra-lightweight carbon composites, titanium and aluminum is evident throughout the new model.<\/p>\n The same modern engineering methods that make\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0light also make the aircraft strong. A\u00a0CNC<\/span>machined chromoly steel frame encloses occupants. Meeting the latest\u00a0FAA<\/span>\u00a0Part 23, Amendment 62, certification standard,\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0features robust construction and may be flown at up to 2,300 lbs gross weight.<\/p>\n Pilot ergonomics received particular focus in\u00a0XCub<\/strong>. The aircraft is designed to give pilot and passenger the comfort and confidence needed for long cross-country flights. High seat positioning, low side windows, the vast skylight, and a low-profile instrument panel assure a commanding view- a rare attribute in a taildragger. The stick rests comfortably at hand, exactly where the pilot wants it. The handsome panel flows intuitively with engine controls on the left and lighting controls on the right.<\/p>\n XCub<\/strong>\u00a0is not just functional, but comfortable as well. \u201cVeteran Cub drivers will be pleasantly surprised at their first encounter with the\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0cabin\u201d, says Richmond. The Ahtanum Interior Package offers supple Scottish leather seats for both pilot and passenger to assure comfort and circulation during long cross-country flights. These seats feature perforated leather inserts over memory foam cushions, contrast stitching and embroidered logos. 12 storage areas surround the cabin in ultra-modern carbon fiber side and header panels. Two bottle holders, four\u00a0USB<\/span>\u00a0and two 12V power ports are easily accessed by pilot and passenger. A unique electronics console faces the rear seat and holds personal devices such as telephones or tablets, allowing the passenger to follow navigation with Garmin Pilot, or watch a movie. Thoughtfully located in the aft baggage bulkhead is a hidden locker for a headset.<\/p>\n \u201cXCub<\/strong>\u00a0is not just a new airplane; it is a new platform upon which we can build different configurations to fulfill different missions,\u201d says company President, Randy Lervold. An example of\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u2019s configurability is presented in the landing gear options. \u201cOwners may choose legacy gear to achieve the lightest possible weight, or spring gear that provides better aerodynamics and speed,\u201d Lervold says.<\/p>\n \u201cXCub<\/strong>\u00a0checks every box on a bush pilot\u2019s wish list,\u201d Lervold continues, \u201cSTOL performance, useful load, speed and range. However, the thing I find special about\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0is the way it flies. With all new flight control surfaces, smooth push-pull aileron control rods and a host of exclusive aerodynamic enhancements,\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0exhibits precise handling and extraordinary flight harmony. This bird is a joy to fly, whether the journey is short or long.\u201d<\/p>\n Along with their new Flagship model, CubCrafters is also announcing factory-authorized flight training programs in partnership with Tac Aero in Hood River, Oregon. Tac Aero will offer programs ranging from primary through transition training for specific CubCrafters models, including\u00a0XCub<\/strong>.<\/p>\n CubCrafters is offering the first 20\u00a0XCub<\/strong>s in a limited\u00a0Launch Edition<\/i>. The\u00a0Launch Edition<\/i>\u00a0has special introductory pricing and includes the\u00a0Launch Edition<\/i>\u00a0paint scheme and branding, as well as a premium Ahtanum leather interior package at no extra charge.\u00a0XCub<\/strong>\u00a0is available from CubCrafters Certified Sales Centers.<\/p>\n For more information, visit\u00a0xcub.com<\/a><\/p>\n For more information about flight training programs for CubCrafters aircraft, visit\u00a0tacaero.com<\/a><\/p>\n –<\/p>\n CubCrafters, founded in 1980 by current owner and CEO, Jim Richmond, is located at McAllister Field Airport (YKM) in Yakima, WA. CubCrafters\u2019 roots are in the 70-year history of classic taildragger aviation, but its products and services are innovative and completely modern.<\/p>\n CubCrafters designs and manufactures Part 23 Certified, LSA and Experimental aircraft. The company\u2019s newest introduction,\u00a0XCub<\/a>, substantially expands the mission profile of sport utility aircraft with its higher speed, longer range and larger payload. The\u00a0Top Cub<\/a>, with a useful load of over 1,000 lbs., is the most up-to-date iteration of the historic Super Cub available. The Carbon Cub has redefined expectations of \u201cbackcountry aircraft\u201d with its light weight, powerful engine, and breathtaking performance. Three variants are offered: the original,\u00a0Carbon Cub SS<\/a>\u00a0is a production LSA.\u00a0Carbon Cub EX-2<\/a>\u00a0is the most complete aircraft kit available, and\u00a0Carbon Cub FX<\/a>\u00a0is a clever E-AB \u201cbuilder assist\u201d program.<\/p>\n Cub Crafters, Inc.<\/strong>About CubCrafters<\/h4>\n
\n1918 South 16th Avenue
\nYakima, WA 98903
\n509.248.9491
\ncubcrafters.com<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"