Not the normal RV-4 vs RV-8.. I would like to see yours!!

[pilot375]

I am considering gettting an airplane. Glasairs and RV's make the short list. I have sat in several Glasairs, but never an RV. Is there anyone in the San Fran area that would be willing to let me and my wife try out your RV-4 or RV-8? I don't need a flight, I just want to sit in it with her. Other RV's might be helpful, but I am leaning towards the 4 or 8... I like the tandem seating. I am in SF area until the weekend then will be in the SD area after that maybe PHX or maybe Las Vegas or back to SF. I don't know yet. I am an ATP/CFI and the typical mission will be a 1.5-2.5 hour flight from SF to NV with an occasional flight to San Diego, and very infrequently to Texas or Michigan. I also have a 47' sailboat in SF and a 28' fishing boat that moves around and could trade a sail for a flight! Any help would be appreciated!
Thanks in advance.

[Neal@F14]

If your typical mission is going to be cross country flights with your wife aboard, then focus your looking at the RV-8. Once you've sat in one (try both front and back seats), versus sitting in the RV-4's back seat, you'll make your choice quickly

[pilot375]

I figure I can let the wife sit in the back and determine if the extra money is worth it for the -8 But have to find one she can sit in.

[Tom Martin]

Give some consideration to the Rocket series of aircraft. Tandem seating with loads of aft load potential, tremendous speed and power, and an undeniable curb appeal. Many of the current owners are professional pilots who are looking for a bit more performance. I am sure you will be able to find one locally to give it a try.

[pilot375]

Sorry what do you mean "rocket" ?

[Mike S]

The Rocket started life as a RV 4

Wings got shorter, fuse got longer and wider, and a big ol 540 got put on the nose.

http://www.vansairforce.com/communit...splay.php?f=80

[Tom Martin]

Google F1 rocket, Team rocket, and the Harmon Rocket, HRII, John Harmon.
This should give you lots of information. Also check the Sport Aircraft Racing League, SARL for relative speeds between the different types of aircraft you are looking at.

[the_other_dougreeves]

So, time for the obvious question: What size is your wife? Answer carefully

The -4 is a pilot's airplane with some space for a person in the back - more like a 2+2 touring car, while the -8 has proper space in back - more like a sedan. In motorcycle terms, the -4 is more of a mid-weight sport bike (Yamaha FZ6), while the -8 is a sport tourer (Yamaha FJR) with more power and room, but more weight.

Personally I love the snug feel of the -4, either front or back. Your wife may not. Best to find out first!

TODR

[chrispratt]

Oshkosh is just around the corner. Plenty of RV-4s and -8s there to sit in.

Chris

[pilot375]

Can't make it to oshkosh this year sadly... Wife is 5'5 about 135lbs how much does attitude weigh?