New Cub on its way

You can never have too many models of the venerable Cub first built by Piper. American Legend is adding a more powerful model to its two-place light sport lineup, one called the Super Legend with a 115-horsepower Lycoming 233 engine, beefy flaps, and 32 gallons of fuel.

The company promises that the 115-hp engine will perform the same as a 150-hp Piper Super Cub, thanks to the light weight of the Super Legend. Part of the design process is to remove weight from the proposed aircraft. A flying prototype will be shown at EAA AirVenture this summer. Lycoming must still certify the 233 engine. First deliveries of the tandem-seat aircraft are expected early in 2012, with a delivery planned at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Fla., in January. The introductory price is $139,900.

Dave Graham, a sales and marketing official with American Legend Cub, said the aircraft is targeted at present Piper Super Cub owners who are concerned about losing their medical certificate. A light sport airplane can be flown with a driver’s license as long as the certificated pilot has never been rejected for an FAA medical certificate. The idea for the aircraft grew from Lycoming’s announcement that it was developing the 233 engine, he said.

The base weight will be around 845 lbs. The Super Legend comes equipped with Super Cub-style flaps, a 32-gallon fuel system with a Left/Right/Both selector switch, and balanced tail feathers. Instrument panel choices include basic Low and Slow (LS), Cross Country with Night VFR (XC), and the Legend Smart Cub panel (SC).

The engine will have a 2,400-hour TBO, and is multi-fuel capable, operating on both 100LL and unleaded automotive fuel. A Sensenich ground-adjustable propeller with spinner will be standard equipment on the Super Legend.

Further enhancements on the Super Legend include lightweight carbon fiber components such as cowling, doors, interior panels, spinner, and wingtip bows. A parking brake system, fuel access steps on the landing gear, and a body-conforming adjustable seat are also standard equipment. Toe brakes are available as an option. Other features, introduced by American Legend and standard on the Super Legend, include a three-inch wider cabin, standard double doors, and the ability to solo from the front or rear seat. Landing options include tundra tires, floats, and skis.