Thanks for the (few..
) constructive replies. Backpacker I always do my lap straps up as low as poss, they're almost over the tops of my legs. I'm used to four and five pointers in gliders although I must say even with tight straps I've never had a problem reaching anything in a glider, but then the seating position is different.
I've already figured out that two quick tugs (leave it out WS, I've already thought of that one...)in an emergency will tighten them up so I fly with them as loose as I need to reach the tank selector. It just seemed a poor layout to me but if as you say it's fairly common then so be it.
Wombat we have a 28 at the club but I'm not that bothered about flying it for the reasons you mention. One door seems a bit lunatic to me but then I suppose I'll get checked out on it one day.