About the LARUE ROBERT S Q-200
The Q-200 is a notable model within the realm of general aviation, specifically known for its unique design and performance capabilities. The aircraft originates from the Quickie Aircraft Corporation, an innovative company founded by Burt Rutan and Gene Sheehan in the late 1970s. The Quickie series, starting with the tandem-wing Quickie designed by Rutan, set the stage for the development of more advanced models such as the Q-200, which debuted in the early 1980s.
The Q-200 was conceptualized as a kit-built aircraft, targeting the homebuilt aviation community. This model sought to improve upon the design and performance of its predecessor, the Q2. Major advancements included a more powerful engine, typically a 100-horsepower Continental O-200, which significantly enhanced its performance metrics, including a higher maximum speed and improved rate of climb.
Key Features and Capabilities
One of the primary motivations behind the production of the Q-200 was the desire to provide aviation enthusiasts with an aircraft that was not only cost-effective but also efficient and capable of high performance. The Q-200 achieves a remarkable blend of economy and speed, boasting cruise speeds in the range of 180 mph while still maintaining low operating costs. Its efficient design, characterized by its composite construction and tandem wings, contributes to its overall aerodynamic efficiency.
The niche the Q-200 serves is quite specific: it caters to pilots and builders who are enthusiastic about constructing their own aircraft and are looking for a project that results in a high-performance, sport airplane. The Q-200 offers several benefits to this niche market, including a relatively low cost of entry compared to factory-built aircraft, the satisfaction of building one's own plane, and the performance characteristics typically found in more expensive, commercially produced aircraft.
Market Position and Use Cases
While the Q-200 is no longer in production, its legacy endures among homebuilders and aviation enthusiasts who continue to fly and maintain these aircraft. The Q-200's history is a testament to the ingenuity and passion of the homebuilt aircraft community, and it remains a celebrated model in the general aviation world.