The “Sunbird” SSDR Microlight

The Sunbird is an all composite low wing semi sporty SSDR designed with safety as a priority. The main design criteria for this aircraft was good all-round attributes, excellent low speed characteristics for short runways yet with great touring capability. Even though it was not our intention to design a hot-ship, the performance should not disappoint. We think we have struck the right balance.

The wide cockpit is exceptional and provides space and comfort. The wings can either be rotated and folded back (optional extra), or completely removed for stowage. The stabilizer is also removable. Completed aircraft will be fitted with the rotary 4 stroke Aixro XF40, and analogue instruments as standard. It comes with a 2d curved canopy, and there are several kit options that allow other engines.

Please contact us for further details....

Design Specifications

The design MAUW is 250kg, but could be increased slightly for future production aircraft. The Sunbird has a great payload due to its lightweight composite construction (see below). Engines weighing 25kg to 45kg and 28hp up to 50hp, can be fitted.

There are various fuel tank options including a nosetank (max 25 litres) and optional wing tanks (2x14 litres). There is under-seat stowage amounting to 20 litres volume /10kg in weight. Some rear-seat stowage may be possible subject to weight CG limits.

The controls are all pushrod with the exception of the rudder and the castoring nosewheel is also steerable.

Wing Span: 6.4m. Wing Area: 7.75sqm Length: 4.75m. Cockpit Width: 0.62m. Empty weight (excluding engine): under 90kg! Weight with Aixro XF40 engine, 116kg (payload 134 kg). Weight with Hirth F23, around 122kg (payload 128kg).

Design Stress:- +4g/-2g Limit loads (+6g/-3g Ultimate)

Performance

Stall Speed (flaps):- under 35 knots. Climb rate (35hp): 600 to 1000 fpm @ MAUW, depending on propellor. Great slow speed handling with its benign wing, and excellent short runway handling characteristics.

Recommended approach speed: 42 to 50 knots with full flaps. Flap limiting speed 68 knots

Minimum takeoff speed: 44 knots, with 15 degree flaps.

Cruise Speed (35hp):- 100 mph. Max Speed (35hp): 115 mph. (Depends on chosen prop)

Speed in Gusts: 91mph. Design Vne: 129mph (To be confirmed later)

Potential Endurance /Range (4 Stroke): Up to 7 hours / 700 miles.

Potential engines and props (25kg to 45kg approx): -

Note: Prop sizes up to 60 inch. Props for Aixro: E-mail us.

4 Strokes:- Aixro XF40 rotary (our preferred standard engine). This engine, which is installed in the prototype, is water cooled. We have fitted two radiators either side of the engine (optional small cockpit radiator as extra). The engine comes with a 2.5 to 1 belt reduction unit as standard and develops 35hp at 6500prm (limited to max 7000rpm). There is an option for a 3.0 to 1 belt drive. Lubrication is by 2 stoke oil mix in unleaded fuel at 50 to 1. Fuel burn is expected at 6 to 8 litres/ hour.

Other Possible Engines:- Hirth F23 (50hp), Briggs and Stratton variants.

Electric Engines

The narrow nose would suit future electric powered versions. We continue to wait on product development.

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