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  #1  
Old 05-20-2015, 05:40 PM
rkiefer2 rkiefer2 is offline
 
Join Date: May 2015
Location: Waukesha, WI
Posts: 72
Default NEWBIE to Forum RV-14 or RV-7A

Hello Everyone,


This is my first official post in VAF. Im a Private Pilot getting ready to start my first build and the jury is still out on the RV7A vs. RV14A.

My mission: 2 seat aerobatic capable of long cross countries comfortably.

I've sat in the RV14 and rode in an RV7A a few times and going back and forth about which to build.

I've ready plenty of forums with people similar to my size 6'3'' 240 lbs fitting in the RV7s w/o any issues. Still a little uneasy about not being comfortable and people keep mentioning concerns with the nose wheel.

I can swing the $$$ for the RV14 over time, but like the affordability of the RV7. Just don't want to wish I would have spent the extra money for the 14 to gain the space if I go the RV7A path.

Additionally I like the idea of the new instructions and less fab time on the RV14 especially being a new builder.


Thoughts on my path? Anyone my size regret or would have went with a 14 if it was available when the started?



Roger
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  #2  
Old 05-20-2015, 05:54 PM
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Jesse Jesse is offline
 
Join Date: May 2005
Location: X35 - Ocala, FL
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Welcome to the good ship, as Mike will say shortly.

I don't think you will ever wish you had gone with a -7 if you build the -14" but very likely may regret going with a -7 instead of the -14. If you can afford it, then that's probably your best bet. You can fit in a -7, but the -14 will fit you much better, especially for long flights.
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Last edited by Jesse : 05-20-2015 at 05:57 PM.
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  #3  
Old 05-20-2015, 06:20 PM
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Ed_Wischmeyer Ed_Wischmeyer is offline
 
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Location: Savannah, GA
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You might want to double check the relative fab times of the -7 vs -14. I've heard stories from very reliable sources that the -14 is not nearly as easy to build as was anticipated.
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  #4  
Old 05-20-2015, 06:33 PM
Mike H Mike H is offline
 
Join Date: May 2014
Location: Savannah
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ed_Wischmeyer View Post
You might want to double check the relative fab times of the -7 vs -14. I've heard stories from very reliable sources that the -14 is not nearly as easy to build as was anticipated.
Having helped build a -7 and currently building a -14A I would say the -14 is way easier. Almost zero "fabrication" of parts so far, just pull out the parts and debur prime and assemble. Keep in mind that you still have to learn basic sheet metal skills such as riveting to be able to build either kit.
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  #5  
Old 05-20-2015, 06:37 PM
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Neal@F14 Neal@F14 is offline
 
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Wichita Falls, TX
Posts: 2,182
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Unless you're adamantly opposed to tandem seating, you might also want to consider the RV-8 too. It'll easily accommodate your size, has lots of baggage capacity for cross country trips, and when you want to do some acro, nothing beats sitting on the centerline of the airframe with the stick in your right hand and the throttle in your left.

Also, having helped friends build both 7s and 8s, my opinion is that the 8 goes together a little quicker than the 7, especially if you're building the QB kits.
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  #6  
Old 05-20-2015, 06:39 PM
rockwoodrv9 rockwoodrv9 is offline
 
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Meridian ID, Aspen CO, Okemos MI
Posts: 2,645
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I am happy with the 9A I am trying to get finished, but I would add the $$ in a heartbeat to be at the same stage with a 14. My next build will be a Kitfox or Just Aircraft so I will be happy with the 9A!
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  #7  
Old 05-20-2015, 06:54 PM
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wirejock wirejock is offline
 
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Location: Estes Park, CO
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Default Welcome

Welcome Roger.
Best of luck with whatever you decide. Vans doesn't make a bad airplane.
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  #8  
Old 05-22-2015, 08:07 AM
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jmcanty3 jmcanty3 is offline
 
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Buffalo, NY
Posts: 38
Default Personal choice, but can't go wrong either way

I too had this back and forth between the 7 and 14.

PRO's for RV7:
I think it exemplifies the "total performance" philosophy a bit better. Faster, shorter take off rolls, better climb, all on less power. Plus cheaper!! There are more flying examples to look at as well...could help for ideas with your build.

Now keep in mind I'm 5'9, so the -7 feels roomy to me.

PRO's for RV14:
More spacious for bigger folks. Perhaps a bit easier to build (although you could do a 7 QB kit for less $$ than the 14 slow build). Bigger baggage area for your camping gear etc. And if you build a -14, you have the added benefit of bragging rights because (for now) you will have the latest and greatest out of Vans, and everyone will want to check it out!

I find that as builders, we tend to waaay over-think things. Sometimes you gotta go with your gut. And if your gut is quite prominent, perhaps go with the -14!

If, however, you do decide a 7A is for you, I doubt you will regret out-climbing, out-cruising, and under-spending your 14A wingman. In fact, he could even carry your tent for you!!

Good luck, and let us know what you decide on!
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  #9  
Old 05-22-2015, 08:39 AM
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rmartingt rmartingt is offline
 
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Location: Savannah, GA
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I started building after the -14 was announced. I went with the -7 for the following reasons:

- I helped build and still occasionally fly a -6, so I know the size will work for me and I know the build challenges are manageable.

- I'm saving up and paying as I go, so the lower cost of the -7 (kit and engine) is attractive. I'll probably have the slow-build -7 in the air before I'd have a -14 flying, just due to the time required to generate more money. Or, for the same money and time, I could have a well-equipped -7 vs. a basic -14.

- I like building. In fact, had plans still been available for scratchbuilding a -6, I maybe would have started several years earlier.
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  #10  
Old 05-22-2015, 08:48 AM
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bret bret is offline
 
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Just a note on the fab parts for the 7, don't let that persuade your decision, a lot of the parts that require you to fab up are well explained and drawn to actual size on the paper plans, in most cases, I thought it was fun!
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