Best Aerobatic Trainer?

[gatorflyer]

Hi, all. I'm a 250-hour PP looking to buy my first plane. I thought about a high-perf. XC plane, but with reasonable rentals available at my FBO, have decided against it.

I'm looking to buy a plane around the $50,000 mark to punch holes in the sky, and have always loved the idea of aerobatics (although all I've ever done is a simple loop with my PP CFI). I've seen many ads for Decathalons & Citabrias in this range, but would like more info to help narrow my search.

I won't be using it for XC, so speed is not a big issue. Something around 120-160hp should do, assuming that's enough for basic to intermediate aerobatics. So I can be trained, it must be a 2-seater.

Any suggestions on what models would best fit these goals? Please include typical maintenance costs or your 'best gusses' at hourly rates based on 125 hrs/yr flying time.

Thanks,
Glenn

 

[mike newall]

7KCAB.

Good trainer, inverted systems, easy to operate, no big maintenance issues provided spars and rib nails have been attended to. Also will tour at reasonable speed and get into short strips if you need.

Decathlon is better but you lose the landing performance if space is tight.

I am in the UK so my ideas of maintenance aren't appropriate but I operate a 7GCBC by myself for a rate which is more than a rental but it's mine !

I have had 2 Champs and this is my second Citabria, yes I would love a Decathlon but I operate out of 1200', one way in one way out and land between 2 60' trees !