I don't know if I'm just imagining it, but i seem to have noticed that most SEP pilots fly at around 2500'. i know that in the south there are airspace limitations but elsewhere where there are no airspace or weather restrictions most SEPs fly at 2000-2500'.
Most of my traffic conflicts occur around this altitude. On my QXC i decided to fly at btw 3500 and 5500' , i noticed that i had fewer traffic advisories/alerts on LARS and i didn't have to ask for MATZ penetrations. so now i fly above the transition layer when i can.
I can not think of reason why people prefer these low levels. I only know of the advantages of flying higher:
1. most lycomings and continentals are best operated at about 6-8000' (can't remember where i read that)
2. Less chance of conflicting with HM finest as well as GA traffic
3. buys you extra time in the event of a forced landing.
So could someone please elaborated on why most people prefer to stick to the lower levels. It really does feel lonely up there
Capt. Manuvar