Ultralight vs Experimental

A Part-103 Ultralight like our Max-103 or 1100R doesn't need to be registered with the FAA and you don't need a license to fly (but of course you should get proper flight training). However if you have a Sport Pilot or Private Pilot's license, or are seriously considering obtaining one, you might want to consider one of our E-AB designs (Sport, Eros, Hi-Max, V-Max & AeroMax). They offer more performance and less restrictions on where you are allowed to fly. One great feature of the 1100R is it can be built as a legal Ultralight, then upgraded to a 1500R or 1600R Sport at any time.

How Big are you?

The Max-103 has a 22" wide fuselage. Some "XL" size guys might find this a bit snug. Most of our other designs are 24" wide, allowing for a bit more elbow room. Of course the AeroMax cockpit has no sides so you have unlimited elbow room!

What type of engine do you want to run?

The Max-103 ultralight and the 1100R are powered by a single cylinder 2-cycle 28-30 HP engine if you build it to Part-103 specs.

If you want a little more power, the 1100R can also handle up-to a 40 HP engine, but the extra speed and weight puts it out of the ultralight category.

Both the 1500R and 1600R Sport are also designed for a 40 HP 2-cylinder 2-cycle engines, and some builders have installed 2-cylinder "Half VW" engines.

If you want even more power we recommend the Eros, AeroMax, or V-Max. The Eros and AeroMax are designed for 2 cylinder, 2 stroke engines in the 50 HP range.

The V-Max fuselage and engine mount have been designed specifically for VW aircraft engine conversions, for those who want affordable 4-stroke power.

High-Wing VS Low-Wing

The high-wing AeroMax and Hi-Max have outstanding visibility below; great for sightseeing & photography. The wing provides shade in flight and for your lawn chair after flying. They're a little more stable and can be flown hands-off for a short period. If you have a very rough airstrip you can install a spring gear on the Hi-Max. A spring gear comes standard on the AeroMax.

Our mid-wing aircraft (1100R, Max-103, Sport models, Eros & V-Max) are a little more nimble, with the pilot sitting right in the CG (center of gravity). They have outstanding visibility when maneuvering, and some pilots just like look of a mid-wing aircraft.

Open Cockpit vs Enclosed Cockpit

An enclosed cockpit (1600 Sport, Hi-Max) provides more protection from the elements, but some pilots like the look, unrestricted visibility and overall "fun factor" of an open cockpit (103-Max, 1100R, 1500R Sport, V-Max & AeroMax).

The Eros has an optional "convertible" canopy that can be converted from fully enclosed to open cockpit very quickly - the best of both worlds!

Time vs. Money

The 1100R is our simplest and least expensive kit. As you add more features (Sport models, V-Max, Eros, etc.) the construction time increases.

The new AeroMax CNC laser-cut "quick-build" kit costs a little more, but with the plywood and metal parts pre-fabricated, you'll be up and flying much sooner.