Originally Posted by BristolScout
I want to get back to basic flying.
Originally Posted by tangovictor
if you want the ultimate 3 axis
Originally Posted by Rod1
If you want the ultimate micro;
Originally Posted by Frelon
the biz with a Mercedes Smart engine
Just thought I'd point out that not everbody seems to be answering the question that BristolScout asked!
BristolScout - you did ask about Jabiru engines. They're Australian built air-cooled 4-stroke direct drive engines. As an engine they can be excellent - a bit (~8kg) lighter and cheaper than the Rotax 912 equivalent and the more recent ones actually seem to be generating the power claimed on the brochures (the earlier ones most definitely didn't). It doesn't however like high inertia propellers, is a bit temperamental over cooling, and the product support in the UK isn't as good as for the Rotax product.
Personally I think that the Jabiru engined X'Air, Escapade, Easy Raider & Thruster (especially if fitted with a reasonably lightweight wooden prop) are fantastic aeroplanes, but even there would be a little wary over product support. Most of the market tends to prefer the heavier and more expensive Rotax product for that reason alone.
G