Greetings all,
I'm a relatively new pilot, got my PPL about 5 weeks ago at 45 hours and now have a bit over 70. I've got a rather broad range of experience for a limited number of hours, ranging from the 172 I took my check ride in to a Navajo, including time in a Comanche 180, Mooney M20F, and some others. I'm starting my instrument rating next week. People tend to have positive things to say about my flying, and generally comment that I am well ahead of where most are given my number of hours.
I am looking into planes to buy and have thought about potentially trying to pick up a Long-EZ that someone else has built. I am attracted to the high speed with low fuel burn, and for most of my missions it would be plenty acceptable since all I need to carry is myself and a few small bags. I am looking for an IFR plane that I can take on long trips (like from PA to CA, for example). I'd be looking to buy one that someone else has built, as I do not have the time to build a plane myself. I have a few questions.
1) I'm 6'2" 155 lbs (very thin). Am I too big?
2) How easy or difficult is this plane to fly? I have time flying at 170 kts, but all in certified aircraft that are relatively docile. Is the Long-EZ a real handful, and difficult to fly, or something that may have a few quirks but can generally be learned to handle well?
3) Anything else in general I should know?
Thanks for your help!
-Ted
