To the OP,
I originally wanted an RV-12, S-LSA. However, when I went to purchase one they had just announced the -12iS and stopped production (2017) of the -12. They missed the first couple of startup dates for the iS...I demo?d the Sling 2, a few days after visiting Van?s In Oregon. Just before the end of the year, Vans still,had no pricing or production dates ready, I ordered my Sling 2.
My Sling was ready the end of June ?18 and I flew it back East from CA. I tell you this, because six more months went by before the -12iS, was ready for production and it would have been at least another 3-6 months before I would see a plane of my own, may be longer. So, if you want to fly, whether it?s a Van?s, Kit Fox, Sling or a Searey, purchase it now if It at meets your criteria and you want to fly sooner than later. The mosaic is not a sure thing.
I?m most interested in weight. Lucky for me the Sling 2 was build to have a MAUW of 1540lbs, the 1320lbs is for the LSA, like mine. The factory has stated, they will, at such time the rules are changed, sign off on the MAUW to 1540, some thing I believe Van?s would never due and don?t blame them, the -12 was never designed for the increased weight. That?s a huge bonus for me, but for now, I?m good at 1320. I don?t need 4 seats or Need to fly faster, been there done that.
The -12 or -12iS are great as is. If you think you will need what?s been noted in the FAA Mosaic, by all means wait or find a platform that?s built to be more and hope the manufacturer will embrace the changes, if and when they arrive.
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