Choosing a SS vs. FX?

[hawgdrvr]

Would like to open the dialog (again?, 2020 version) on choosing between a SS or a FX3. For those that have made this decision what are your decision points, what drove you to one vs. the other? Let's leave one element out of this - cost.

[aeroaddict]

Why? I thought your decision had been made. Change of mission?

Kind of a difficult comparison in my opinion.

No frills, simple to fly, easy to operate, light weight vs. all the latest equipment, more complex, heavier but more pay load.

[hawgdrvr]

My posts aren’t always about me and may be presented to help others with questions I’m asked, etc. I am set on the FX3 - yes.

[aeroaddict]

My decision point: the FX3 was available yet.

Not an SS, but the EX-2 is somewhat similar as you can go LSA (1320 lbs GW) with this kit (EX-2 GW 1865 lbs).

I like simple non complex light planes for my mission. I built it with extended range tanks, 3X3 gear, T3 tailwheel shock and Black Ops up front (I just run 8.50 tires). Dynon HDX panel (no auto pilot & ADS-B compliant In/Out).

I fly the Idaho back country hence the shocks on the gear (or maybe I'm still learning how to land) and extended range tanks. I find it nice to have the extra fuel, one thing less to worry about if weather or wind comes up.

[TigerCub]

I've had them both (2020 FX-3 and 2015 SS) and was able to fly them back-to-back for comparison.

I struggled back & forth for several months deciding which one to keep and which to sell.

The SS takes off and lands like a dream. Pull power abeam the numbers, turn base at 45º, and float over the threshold for consistent landings under 500'. With the FX-3 I generally had to carry a little power on landings until some fellow owners suggested leaving the prop at cruise pitch in the pattern. Jury is still out on that one.

For an LSA-only pilot, the decision's pretty much made for the SS. Personally, I'm glad I stuck with the FX-3 but the SS is still dear to my heart. You'd be a winner either way - but one thing to consider is long cross-country flights, which I do with some regularity.

The FX-3's constant-speed prop, Garmin autopilot, long-range tanks, and Sirius XM radio make it a very tolerable cross-country machine. I've flown my FX-3 from coast to coast, from Mt. Rainier to the Statue of Liberty, and while it's no speed demon I can't see doing those long legs in an SS (especially with the 24-gallon tanks). I always thought of my SS as more of a local flyer, while I would not hesitate to fly the FX-3 across the country at its very acceptable cruise speeds.

PM me and I'd be glad to chat about my experiences with both aircraft.

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