Carbon Cub SS

Michael Maya Charles

Saturday, October 02, 2010 at 01:44 AM ET

Verified

CubCrafters Carbon Cub SS

Key Takeaways:

The Carbon Cub SS is a "high-performance LSA" lauded for its impressive takeoff, rapid climb rate, and exceptional low-speed handling, even at high density altitudes, powered by a custom 180 hp CC340 engine.
Its remarkable performance is attributed to an aggressive weight-saving engineering program, utilizing modern design techniques, chromoly steel, and lightweight components (e.g., carbon fiber, unique exhaust, specialized paint) to meet LSA limits.
Many owners convert the aircraft from S-LSA to E-LSA (often to accommodate options like larger tires), which allows for aircraft modifications, night VFR flight, and owner maintenance after completing an FAA-approved course.
The Carbon Cub SS is the top-selling LSA, appealing to experienced pilots who value its fun-to-fly nature and the flexibility to operate it under LSA rules, offering a high-performance option they can fly without a medical.

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Yeee-Haa!
That was the unbridled reaction to my first solo takeoff in a Carbon Cub SS, the new LSA from CubCrafters. When I pushed the little black knob forward to unleash the 180 hp CC340 engine, the tail lightened swiftly and the airplane quickly started dancing softly on its 29-inch Alaska Bushwheel Airstreak tires before I realized I was the only one not quite ready to fly. In spite of my slow response, takeoff roll was just a few hundred feet, and the climb rate was invigorating, inviting comparison to a helicopter instead of an airplane. CubCrafters likes to call this aircraft a “high performance LSA,” and it is.

Did I mention that I was departing from a grass strip just south of Denver called Rocky Mountain Airpark at an elevation of 6,295 feet and a temperature of 70 degrees? That makes for a rather formidable density altitude of 8,400 feet. Impressive performance for a high-altitude takeoff! There’s nothing quite like a light aircraft with a big engine to put a smile on your face.