The article features a 1978 Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon as "Today's Top Pick" from Aircraft For Sale, praising its versatility as a taildragger.
The Decathlon is highlighted as an excellent entry-level aircraft for aerobatics training and competition, offering more advanced capabilities than the Citabria.
Despite its aerobatic focus, it's a nimble two-seater suitable for cross-country travel, with speeds around 130 ktas and enough carrying capacity.
The specific 1978 model has 2,474 hours on the airframe, comes equipped for aerobatics (including parachutes), and is listed for $98,500.
Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4
![1978 Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon [Credit: Barnett Investment Group]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/decathlon1.webp)
