Yet again the bad experiences bubble to the surface.
Flying a 172 is absolutely nothing like any sort of Europa. Yes maybe early Europas had problems as they were quite short-coupled, and twitchy.
There are many other monowheel aircraft such as RF4, RF5, Slingsby T61. You never hear of probs with these.
All aircraft demand different techniques.
The Europa will definitely do more flying per £ than any 172, as good and safe as they are.
Since Simon wants to fly VFR I take the view he's better flying say 100 hous a year in a thrifty aircraft, than say 25 hours a year in a much heavier and thirstier machine, the handling of which is rather un-inspiring.
I know what I'd rather do.
