EZ pilot

Rage 83, You might try downloading the Long EZ POH. I believe a copy is available at ez.org. For reference, mine, built to plans, closely duplicates the POH quoted performance throughout. (Mr Rutan didn't fudge figures) Needing long runways is not necessarily the norm, though the heavier the aircraft the slower the acceleration / deceleration. With proper technique, mine gets away in about 600m and can if handled correctly, land shorter than that. (see POH) Likewise my Long EZ is good for at least 20 kts of crosswind (see POH) so the rudders are fine and in fact are strong enough to overpower the ailerons (see John Denver's mishap).

I believe that aircraft, more than most vehicles, are a collection of compromises. The Long Ez is not perfect in all roles, but as a long distance, efficient cruiser that is pleasant to fly, I think that it is very good compromise. Doing low and slow type missions is not one of its strong suits, and neither is being a 'bush aircraft'. I guess it all depends on what sort of mission an individual wants an aeroplane for and how much compromise they are prepared to accept.

I have a little experience of Long EZ's which may be useful in this discussion: I built one, and have about 700 hours in it. I have flown briefly in the backseat of two others and so have a basis for comparison. I have also spent considerable time in other aircraft such as Archers, Citabrias, Gazelles etc. The perception of Long EZ's as c--p seems to be a personal opinion. More factually perhaps, the most defining feature of Long EZs is that they are slippery and efficient. This means that you have to manage speed and descents somewhat more than in more usual GA aircraft. So much so that I find that I need to slow up to 75 kts well before entering the circuit, and having done that, I find the rest of the landing process follows relatively easily. Having gotten used to slipperiness, in general handling, the aircraft is positively stable in pitch and yaw and neutrally stable in roll. Stick forces are nicely balanced and a little on the firm side and produce immediate response with pressure. No rudder input is required in flight. Accommodation is snug but comfortable in the front seat and snug but uncomfortable for tall people in the back seat. Lots of luggage can be stowed but it must be packed in soft bags to fit the odd nooks and crannies. There is storage in the wing roots, main-spar, behind the seats and alongside the rear seat. If fitted, baggage pods capable of adding 20 kgs storage per side can also be used. Being a pusher with a rather firm gear, means that Long Ezs are not that happy on rough strips and that damage from things kicked up by the nose-wheel into the prop on gravel strips is something to watch for. With all of the above in mind, I really like flying mine. Of course, if any of the characteristics that i mentioned don't appeal to you, you may not.