You know the speed at 12k would be very interesting with this combo. For many this altitude is not useful. For me it’s normal cruise altitude out here
I bet the vast majority of the 916 buyers are just buying a cool factor.
Looking at things closely, what does the 916 really get you? A maximum of 5 minutes with 20 extra HP then it is back to normal 915 power. What is that, $15,000 to $20,000 for an occasional takeoff that needs extra power? How many times a year do you need that extra power for a takeoff that the 915 would not provide the same safety margin? Having flown behind a 915 it rarely made 5 minutes without warning lights going off that requiring the power be pulled back.
I just don’t see the point as it is just for takeoff. 20 extra HP in cruise and yes it is a big deal.
$15,000 buys a lot of fuel, or an upgraded panel.
I bet the vast majority of the 916 buyers are just buying a cool factor.
$15,000 buys a lot of fuel, or an upgraded panel.
Everything I’ve read puts the price difference around $8. Granted, that’s still significant. But in addition, it does buy you a 2000 TBO and a five year warranty. I spoke to one of the US Rotax reps today and they anticipate the extended warranty will be applied to the 915 in the very near future along with a price adjustment. So, I’m not sure the difference in price is a great as you might think. My field elevation is 6500’. I’d be happy with a little more hp, even for a few minutes.
Looking at things closely, what does the 916 really get you? A maximum of 5 minutes with 20 extra HP then it is back to normal 915 power. What is that, $15,000 to $20,000 for an occasional takeoff that needs extra power? How many times a year do you need that extra power for a takeoff that the 915 would not provide the same safety margin? Having flown behind a 915 it rarely made 5 minutes without warning lights going off that requiring the power be pulled back.
I just don’t see the point as it is just for takeoff. 20 extra HP in cruise and yes it is a big deal.
$15,000 buys a lot of fuel, or an upgraded panel.
I bet the vast majority of the 916 buyers are just buying a cool factor.
You really don't need a ton of horsepower in cruise. There's a reason most people are running their 180hp engines at 100hp in cruise. Extra power is entirely for takeoff and climb. 20 extra hp in cruise is actually not a big deal at all. It would be very minimal gain in speed, as speed is about drag, not horsepower.
…and yet people argue over the two or theee knots difference between a two blade and three blade prop…
Just saying…
At least with prop efficiency the speed is free with the better prop. Adding 20hp to cruise nets you almost nothing in speed but a lot more fuel turned to noise.