Nova-1 UL

Ok, here is the aircraft for me. Especially since I can purchase one from their special offer on Ebay. They are pricing an airframe kit at $5995 on Ebay right now. They are planning to sell 24 at that price, which is below there production cost. This is intended to get the Nova-1 introduced in several markets.

This is what Ultralightnews.com had to say about it.

"Last year a craft built by Starlite Engineering called the Nova 1 was on static display.

The pilot sits on a seat out in front of the wing with the engine on a "pylon" above and behind him. While the company did not have a commercial display this year, a Nova 1 was at the show.

The pilot demonstrated all week long the handling capabilities of this beautiful little craft. Last year Nova 1 was shown with only a little single cylinder engine. The craft flying this year was powered by what looked to be a 503 dual carb Rotax putting out about 50 hp.

Cruise looked to come in about 55 mph, take off distance in windy conditions was about 50 feet with about 150 needed on calmer evening flights. The demonstrated climb rate was very impressive, but then again anything that light with that kind of power had better do more than just look pretty."

Now the engine recommend on the Ebay listing is a MZ-201 which is rated at 45hp. Here is what the discription on Hart Aeros e-store says.

"MZ201 Complete includes belt reduction drive or gearbox with clutch. The MZ201 was created to meet a specific need. The engine was derived from its big brother MZ202 and derated to 45 Hp.

This configuration is best for motorglider applications and single place ULM where the single cylinder engine is too small and our MZ202 is too powerful. With this performance we can use a belt reduction system, and the lower power does not need the forced air cooling.

The engine weight complete with reduction, carburetor and muffler is only 31 kg (69 lbs). The torque curve, being very flat, is optimal for a propeller.

The fuel consumption is very low due to the double CDI ignition system with variable ignition points. A single Tillotson diaphragm carburetor is standard.

The MZ201 is supplied with electric starter, recoil starter, exhaust system, wiring harness, air filter and belt reduction. Optionally available: RZ2 gear box with clutch, fan cooled.

Bore: 76 mm Stroke: 69 mm Displacement: 626 cc Rotation: Anti-clockwise from PTO Cooling: By propeller Ignition: Double CDI Fuel Metering: Single Tillotson carb Starter: Electric and Recoil starter starter Generator: 180 Watt 13.8V Max brake output: 45 HP @ 4700 RPM Max permissable RPM: 4700 RPM Lubrication: Oil (Castrol TTS) in unleaded gas 50:1 Reduction: Belt reduction (gearbox optional) Complete engine weight: 31 kg (69 lbs) incl. reduction, electric starter, exhaust."

All I can say is what a combination.