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Big News! CUBCRAFTERS DEBUTS NEW FLAGSHIP: XCub

sj

Staff member
Northwest Arkansas
DSC04851_crop.jpg

CUBCRAFTERS DEBUTS NEW FLAGSHIP:
XCub

Company Sets New Standard
for Sport Utility Aircraft


Yakima, Washington – Jun 6, 2016: CubCrafters is introducing its new top-of-the-line aircraft, XCub. The new model received FAA Type Certification on June 2, 2016 and is available immediately.

XCub is lighter, faster and stronger than any aircraft in its category. XCub also provides a larger payload and greater range. Combined, these attributes fulfill a much wider mission profile compared to any other aircraft in this class.

"Six years ago I imagined a Part 23 certified Carbon Cub,” recalls Jim Richmond, CubCrafters’ CEO. “Our development team set out to design a Cub with terrific STOL capabilities, like our Carbon Cub LSA, but one that could travel faster and farther, while easily accommodating all of the gear that a pilot and passenger might want to carry for an extended journey. Now, after receiving Type Certification from FAA, I’m proud to say that XCub is much, much more than I had even hoped it would be.”

XCub boasts a cruising speed over 145 miles per hour at 75% power, and a useful load of up to 1,084 pounds. It is powered by a 180 horsepower Lycoming 0-360 that drives a Hartzel Trailblazer constant-speed composite propeller.

“Early on, when the first new airframe was produced, we discovered that our understanding of the Cub’s aerodynamics was incomplete,” says Richmond. “They fly nicely at 100 miles per hour, but at 140, everything changes!” The company embarked on an ambitious two-year aerodynamic analysis of the airframe and all flight surfaces. That analysis motivated a fresh perspective on what can be achieved at both the lowest and highest limits of the speed envelope. Airflow over the prototype cowl, fuselage and wings was smoothed considerably. The sleek aluminum spring landing gear adds as much as 14 mph at typical cruise settings. Composite fairings were added to the attach points of the landing gear and struts. All new flight controls and empennage were developed, and the finished aircraft features a distinctive and stylish composite dorsal fin. “As we flew at higher and higher speeds, we discovered that the dorsal provides welcome directional stability,” comments Patrick Horgan, CubCrafters’ Director of Engineering and Product Development. “Cross-country pilots will appreciate the stable response to turbulence as well.”

To refine handling, CubCrafters completely re-engineered the ailerons and the way pilots interact with them. Roll response was optimized by modifying the aileron airfoil and cove, and by repositioning the hinge lines. This resulted in improved aileron response, lower lateral control loads, and natural centering. Traditional cables and pulleys were replaced with a solid push-rod system, eliminating cable stretch. The ailerons are crisp, quick, and light, complemented by equally pleasing pitch response and rudder authority. The resulting control harmony makes this the most balanced Cub ever.

CubCrafters' well-known obsession with weight extends to their new airplane. Contemporary design technologies put weight only where it is needed. Extensive use of ultra-lightweight carbon composites, titanium and aluminum is evident throughout the new model.

The same modern engineering methods that make XCub light also make the aircraft strong. A CNC machined chromoly steel frame encloses occupants. Meeting the latest FAA Part 23, Amendment 62, certification standard, XCub features robust construction and may be flown at up to 2,300 lbs gross weight.

Pilot ergonomics received particular focus in XCub. The aircraft is designed to give pilot and passenger the comfort and confidence needed for long cross-country flights. High seat positioning, low side windows, the vast skylight, and a low-profile instrument panel assure a commanding view- a rare attribute in a taildragger. The stick rests comfortably at hand, exactly where the pilot wants it. The handsome panel flows intuitively with engine controls on the left and lighting controls on the right.

XCub is not just functional, but comfortable as well. “Veteran Cub drivers will be pleasantly surprised at their first encounter with the XCub cabin”, says Richmond. The Ahtanum Interior Package offers supple Scottish leather seats for both pilot and passenger to assure comfort and circulation during long cross-country flights. These seats feature perforated leather inserts over memory foam cushions, contrast stitching and embroidered logos. 12 storage areas surround the cabin in ultra-modern carbon fiber side and header panels. Two bottle holders, four USB and two 12V power ports are easily accessed by pilot and passenger. A unique electronics console faces the rear seat and holds personal devices such as telephones or tablets, allowing the passenger to follow navigation with Garmin Pilot, or watch a movie. Thoughtfully located in the aft baggage bulkhead is a hidden locker for a headset.

“Xcub is not just a new airplane; it is a new platform upon which we can build different configurations to fulfil different missions,” says company President, Randy Lervold. An example of XCub’s configurability is presented in the landing gear options. “Owners may choose legacy gear to achieve the lightest possible weight, or spring gear that provides better aerodynamics and speed,” Lervold says.

“XCub checks every box on a bush pilot’s wish list,” Lervold continues, “STOL performance, useful load, speed and range. However, the thing I find special about XCub is the way it flies. With all new flight control surfaces, smooth push-pull aileron control rods and a host of exclusive aerodynamic enhancements, XCub exhibits precise handling and extraordinary flight harmony. This bird is a joy to fly, whether the journey is short or long.”

Along with their new Flagship model, CubCrafters is also announcing factory-authorized flight training programs in partnership with Tac Aero in Hood River, Oregon. Tac Aero will offer programs ranging from primary through transition training for specific CubCrafters models, including XCub.

CubCrafters is offering the first 20 XCubs in a limited Launch Edition. The Launch Edition has special introductory pricing and includes the Launch Edition paint scheme and branding, as well as a premium Ahtanum leather interior package at no extra charge. XCub is available from CubCrafters Certified Sales Centers.

XCub Specifications:



AIRCRAFT
Certification: FAA Part 23 Certified
Category: Normal (2,300 lbs GW) & Utility (1,980 lbs GW)
Type: Single Engine Land & Sea
Crew & Passengers: 2

DIMENSIONS
Length: 23 ft 10 in
Height: 8 ft 4 in
Wingspan: 34 ft 4 in
Wing Area: 174.8 sq ft
Cabin Width: 30 in
Cabin Height: 52 in
Cargo Area: 26 cu ft

WEIGHTS
Empty Weight: 1,216 lbs (base configuration)
Gross Weight: 2,300 lbs
Maximum Useful Load: 1,084 lbs
Cargo Weight: 230 lbs

CAPACITIES
Fuel: 49 gal
Oil: 8 quarts


POWERPLANT
Engine: Lycoming O-360-C1G
Power: 180 Horsepower
Propeller: Hartzell Trailblazer, constant speed, composite

PERFORMANCE
Maximum Speed: 153 mph in level flight
Cruise (75% power): 145 mph
Rate of Climb: 1,500 ft/min
Endurance: 6+ hrs
Range: 800 mi
Takeoff Distance: 170 ft
Landing Distance: 170 ft
 

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CC previously sold off the CC-18 type cert, didn't they?

I wish them luck. I look forward to seeing this new certified Cub. I want to see how that spring gear works.
 
CC previously sold off the CC-18 type cert, didn't they?

I wish them luck. I look forward to seeing this new certified Cub. I want to see how that spring gear works.

They did.

The spring gear is pretty slick, with everything else helping it becomes a very fast little bird when needed. Traditional gear will be available too.
 
Cubcrafters has proven themselves as a smart, well run business. I admire that. When they sold the -18 TC I figured they staked their future on the Carbon Cub. I didn't see this coming. Good for them. It looks like a very nice, very worthy airplane. I hope it's a commercial success.
 
Sounds pretty capable. RV merge with Cub (see Randy background)? Curious what airfoil it has.
 
I agree that CC is doing a great job of introducing innovative, new airplanes. I'm sure this one will sell well too for those wanting a Husky type airplane.

I'd like to see one up close or better yet demo fly it.

There are a few things I wonder about. The 'legacy gear', as CC refers to the traditional landing gear on Cubs, is one of the things that make it a great off-airport performer IMO. I'm sure spring gear is faster, 14 mph they say, but I question how it will perform on truly rough stuff. And I don't mean a nicely mowed grass strip.

And I wonder why it is 200 pounds heavier than my somewhat heavy CC EX? My EX is an even 1000 pounds with 31's and other heavier add-on's.

The new control surfaces sound interesting. Having wrung out the FX version last fall with their new flaps and ailerons I can say that the feel and performance is an improvement. I assume this plane has similar control surfaces.

Seeing a major investment in engineering, certification and manufacturing in this market is encouraging and I wish them the best.
 
I agree that CC is doing a great job of introducing innovative, new airplanes. I'm sure this one will sell well too for those wanting a Husky type airplane.

I'd like to see one up close or better yet demo fly it.

There are a few things I wonder about. The 'legacy gear', as CC refers to the traditional landing gear on Cubs, is one of the things that make it a great off-airport performer IMO. I'm sure spring gear is faster, 14 mph they say, but I question how it will perform on truly rough stuff. And I don't mean a nicely mowed grass strip.

And I wonder why it is 200 pounds heavier than my somewhat heavy CC EX? My EX is an even 1000 pounds with 31's and other heavier add-on's.

The new control surfaces sound interesting. Having wrung out the FX version last fall with their new flaps and ailerons I can say that the feel and performance is an improvement. I assume this plane has similar control surfaces.

Seeing a major investment in engineering, certification and manufacturing in this market is encouraging and I wish them the best.
Fully "fully certified" engine and CS prop are I bet a 1/3 of the weight difference you see.

I'm impressed with what I see so far, if such had been out four years ago I think I'd only be owning one airplane!
 
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Cubcrafters did the flight testing in the hangar across from me back in February of this year. It's still using the Cub airfoil and has the same wing as the FX2. I got to have a lot of interesting conversations with Len Fox and the team on the first 2 planes. I learned a lot from listening to them talk about the X vs an 18. I could be wrong but I believe CC still owns the type cert for an 18 in the US. The deal with China limited by them to the Chinese market. It provided the funds for them to finish the X much quicker.

Nelson
 
Kirby,

Can you adopt me?

Fully "fully certified" engine and CS prop are I bet a 1/3 of the weight difference you see.

I'm impressed with what I see so far, if such had been out four years ago I think I'd only be owning one airplane!
 
You know what I see here, at the moment the slideshow scrolled over to the interior shot?

Carry-over, Trickle down effect, design box pushing… This is the real-world benefit of ICON coming into the world and throwing around heaps of money without really doing anything.This is a panel design straight out of Icon inspiration.

If you've read any of my other posts you'll know I'm not a proponent of ICON and their lackluster machine, when others do it better. But I thank them for pushing the market, creating an advertising buzz, and getting some GA back into the spotlight. Maybe Cubcrafters already had this going on when ICON came into the scene, and maybe not, but it matters not.

Good time to shake up the old standards and push new ideas, new designs, new layouts, and new products.

Well done Cubcrafters.

pb

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Eaton,

Can I borrow $350,000? I will take you for a ride in my Amphib X to go fishing. Tom Ford said he would make my payments for me since he doesn't have to buy gas right now.
 
Eaton,

Can I borrow $350,000? I will take you for a ride in my Amphib X to go fishing. Tom Ford said he would make my payments for me since he doesn't have to buy gas right now.

At Fords pace, he'll never have to buy gas.....
 
Fully "fully certified" engine and CS prop are I bet a 1/3 of the weight difference you see.

I'm impressed with what I see so far, if such had been out four years ago I think I'd only be owning one airplane!


Yea, I can see that. But what would you be flying? Your daughter would have this one out on dates hunting boyfriends!

Lots of things to like on this plane. Enough change that there are things not to like also, but I bet one would get familiar with the gear and other differences and such pretty quickly and find a ton of smiles each day.
 
Yea, I can see that. But what would you be flying? Your daughter would have this one out on dates hunting boyfriends!

Lots of things to like on this plane. Enough change that there are things not to like also, but I bet one would get familiar with the gear and other differences and such pretty quickly and find a ton of smiles each day.
Yea, can't possibly bounce any higher than a 180 brought in a little hot and a little steep!
 
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