I agree. I bought an Arrow IV some years ago and have flown it all over the USA. The annual is more expensive than a J3, but you do get a solid ride with decent speed. The "heavy nose" on take-off is no big deal if you use full up trim, 10 degrees of flaps and use 65 kts as Vr. After TO, I just hold the electric trim forward for a few seconds and I am in a stable climb. After my first landing, I knew what to expect from the stableator and haven't thought about it since. It does a magnificent job with cross wind landings.
IMO, the bad rep is from pilots who don't understand the characteristics of this airplane, but that's ok. I got a big discount because of the rumors and a darned nice airplane to fly.
Originally Posted by
mmgreve
I would agree that the T-tail is an absolute pig to fly.
That's a little harsh. I believe if we were to spend an hour in the pattern I could teach you the characteristics and methods of flying this airplane, your opinion would improve considerably. This is a sleeper - actually a pretty good touring airplane.