More on the "Lizard Plane"
A Brief History of the Lizard Plane:
This remarkable little airplane was built from a kit in Northern California, in the foothills of Mount Shasta. Assembled over a period of a few years by a retired machinist, its uncommon perfection has been recognized by many at numerous regional fly-ins and airshows; yes, over the years the Lizard Plane has brought home its fair share of trophies, including "Best of Show"!
At the hands of Christopher Desmond, the Lizard Plane explored untold remote locations. It has found its way all across the west coast, from Oregon to Southern California, from the high altitudes of snow-capped mountains to the beaches of the Pacific. While not a stranger to bonefide airports, more often than not, with Christopher at the controls, the Lizard Plane has operated more from grass strips, gravel bars, driveways and remote mountain trails...
STOL-Adventure videos highlight just some of these exciting back country adventure...
At the hands of Christopher Desmond, the Lizard Plane explored untold remote locations. It has found its way all across the west coast, from Oregon to Southern California, from the high altitudes of snow-capped mountains to the beaches of the Pacific. While not a stranger to bonefide airports, more often than not, with Christopher at the controls, the Lizard Plane has operated more from grass strips, gravel bars, driveways and remote mountain trails...
STOL-Adventure videos highlight just some of these exciting back country adventure...
Standard STOL CH 701 Features:
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More on the STOL CH 701 Aircraft:
Developed for the first-time builder
and demanding recreational pilot, the STOL CH 701 was designed to be easy to build and to
maximize flight performance and efficiency. The aircraft makes use of advanced technologies
while using proven design concepts and simple systems for easy assembly and maintenance. Designed by Chris Heintz, the STOL CH 701's structure has undergone complete and rigorous
design stress analysis as well as flight testing.
For more information, including specifications and performances, visit the kit-maker's website. |
Special Lizard Plane Features:
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Special Tail Wheel
Although a tail wheel should not be needed on a tricycle gear aircraft, it's nice to know it is there "just in case", especially when engaged in extreme attitude manoeuvres in less-than-ideal areas or conditions. This custom installation includes the wheel from a popular scooter brand and is a favorite attraction for many children who recognize it (and give it a spin) at fly-ins and shows...
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Special Handling Bar
This custom handle located just under the stabilizer (on the pilot side) makes it easy to manoeuvre the aircraft on the ground. Pushing down on it easily raises the nose wheel; it allows the plane to be turned "on a dime" quickly and with precision. This avoids having to push on the fuselage top or stabilizer which could easily overstress or damage the airframe. It make the plane a breeze to move inside a hangar - and to turn it around at the end of short, one-way strips...
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Angle of Attack Indicator (Lift Reserve Indicator)
This instrument provides valuable information to the pilot, especially when attempting to fly the aircraft at its limits. When the airspeed indicator looses some of its accuracy at low speeds, this instrument (LRI) lets the pilot know how much lift the wings are still generating...
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Custom Panel & Aluminum Grips on Control Stick
Attention to details and quality workmanship makes the Lizard Plane a pleasure to behold.
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Special 5-position Mechanical Flap Handle (a.k.a. Kube Kontrol)
This flap handle gives the pilot 5 choices of flap position (the standard set-up only provides two). In addition, the lever provides a mechanical advantage which makes it easier for the pilot to operate. This features allows for more precision flying - a definite plus when flying at the limits.
Note: The Kube Kontrol is a retrofittable option now available through Quality Sport Planes. It can be added to any STOL CH 701. |
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Grove Gear and Streamlined Struts
The Grove landing gear spring is made from 7075-T6 rather than from 6061-T6 aluminum. This alloy is a little more rigid than the original but a bit more corrosion-prone. More details are available from the Grove Aircraft Co.
The stream-line struts add a nice touch to the aircraft but also reduce drag & increase airspeed by up to 5 mph. Even though top-end speed is not a priority during STOL operations, it helps us get to the fun spots a little sooner... ;o) |
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Large 29" Tubeless Tires
Everybody just loves the look of these large tires! We do too!
We have tried the Goodyear brand as well as the Alaska Bushwheels; while the latter are more expensive, they are also a bit lighter. For the best possible STOL performances, keep the aircraft as light as possible! |
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Unique Aboriginal Artwork of an Australian Gecko
Accomplished in the traditional style that inspired this hand-painted artwork, this gecko has been the single most identifiable mark on this aircraft. Very beautiful, but not recommended if you prefer to remain anonymous or un-noticed...
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Remote-controlled, pan-tilt video camera
Custom-built from commonly available specialized products, this setup has proven to be sturdy and reliable - we have also been very happy with the quality of the images.
For over-the-shoulder shots seen in our videos (looking forward, inside the cabin) the camera was secured in the baggage compartment on a large bean-bag... |
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More to come...
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