Cozy III
Pilot’s Operating Handbook Page 54
gravity. To determine rotation speed, accelerate to 40 knots, set
power to maintain speed (close to idle), and then attempt to
rotate. If 40 knots is too slow to rotate, then go back to the start
and try 45 knots, etc. Find the speed that will just rotate the
nose (about 55 knots), reduce power to near idle and practice
holding the nose at a predetermined position. Be careful not to
over-rotate. Always keep the canard well below the horizon.
The pilot should not allow the aircraft to exceed 60 knots or
rotate to a point of becoming airborne during this exercise.
When you've done enough runs down the runway so that you
can comfortably, smoothly, and precisely control speed, pitch,
and yaw with the nose wheel off the ground, you should be ready
for the first flight.
FIRST FLIGHT
You should be proficient
in rudder operation and
positive control of pitch
to be ready for the "big
one". But be sure you
review and understand
the following:
The COZY does not fly
like a Cessna 150 or
some other sluggish trainer. The COZY is a high-performance,
responsive aircraft with differences. It has a side stick and the
pilot should keep his forearm on the arm rest and use his wrist to
control pitch. Also, the rudders can both be deployed
simultaneously and the pilot should be careful not to
inadvertently do this in flight.
There are two differences in a COZY which must be thoroughly
understood prior to flight:
1. The non-standard rudder pedals. Be sure not to inadvertently
deploy both rudders at the same time in flight. If you do this, one
rudder will usually be out more than the other, producing
unwanted yaw. The COZY rudders are quite effective. Adjust
the pedals so your feet do not press the pedals naturally.
2. Pitch over-controlling. The novice pilot will expect the COZY
to handle like a Cessna 150, or whatever he last flew. The
experienced pilot knows that J-3 Cubs and Bonanzas handle
differently and will make the transition easily. Spend enough
time on the runway just above rotation speed, but below lift-off
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