Description
The Piper Cub is one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history. Originally produced by Piper Aircraft in 1937, the Cub became known for its simplicity, ruggedness, and versatility. It quickly became a favorite for training, backcountry flying, and even military service. Over the decades, several manufacturers have modernized the classic Cub design, resulting in today’s high-performance variants. CubCrafters and American Legend have both continued the Cub’s legacy by offering aircraft that combine modern technology with the timeless design of the original Piper Cub.
Original Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft
Years of Manufacture: 1937 – Present (modern variants continue to be produced)
Modern Variants:
- Introduction Year: 2017
- Description: The CubCrafters FX3 is a highly modernized descendant of the Piper Cub, designed for backcountry and bush flying. It features a robust airframe, carbon fiber components, and a powerful 186-hp fuel-injected engine, providing unmatched performance for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations.
- Key Features:
- 186-hp Fuel-Injected Engine
- Carbon Fiber for Lightweight Construction
- Three-Blade Constant-Speed Composite Propeller
- Enhanced STOL Capabilities for Off-Airport Flying
- Spacious Cockpit for Comfort on Long Flights
- Performance/Specifications:
- Cruise Speed: 135 mph (117 knots)
- Range: 600 nautical miles
- Takeoff Distance: 170 ft
- Landing Distance: 150 ft
- Fuel Capacity: 44 gallons
- Useful Load: 1,084 lbs
- Introduction Year: 2009
- Description: The Carbon Cub SS by CubCrafters reimagines the classic Piper Cub with ultralight materials and a powerful 180-hp engine. Designed for extreme short takeoff and landing performance, the Carbon Cub SS is a favorite for backcountry pilots who need to operate in rugged and confined environments.
- Key Features:
- 180-hp Engine
- Lightweight Carbon Fiber Airframe
- Superior STOL Performance for Remote Airstrips
- Advanced Avionics for Bush Flying
- Large Payload Capacity
- Performance/Specifications:
- Cruise Speed: 130 mph (113 knots)
- Range: 450 nautical miles
- Takeoff Distance: 60 ft
- Landing Distance: 50 ft
- Fuel Capacity: 24 gallons
- Useful Load: 900 lbs
- Introduction Year: 2005
- Description: The Legend Cub by American Legend pays homage to the original Piper J-3 Cub with modern enhancements. Its 100-hp Continental engine, traditional stick controls, and lightweight design make it ideal for recreational and training purposes. The Legend Cub offers the simplicity of the original Cub, combined with the reliability and safety of modern materials and technology.
- Key Features:
- 100-hp Continental O-200 Engine
- Tailwheel (Conventional) Gear
- Classic Stick Controls for Nostalgic Flying Experience
- Optional Floats for Water Landings
- Excellent for Training and Leisure Flying
- Performance/Specifications:
- Cruise Speed: 85 mph (74 knots)
- Range: 300 nautical miles
- Takeoff Distance: 200 ft
- Landing Distance: 250 ft
- Fuel Capacity: 24 gallons
- Useful Load: 450 lbs
Categories:
- Aircraft Class: Light Sport Aircraft, Utility Aircraft, STOL Aircraft
- Manufacturer/Brand: CubCrafters, American Legend, Piper (Original)
- Price Range:
- CubCrafters FX3: $300,000 – $350,000
- Carbon Cub SS: $200,000 – $250,000
- Legend Cub: $150,000 – $200,000
- Engine Type: Piston Engines
- Seating Capacity: 2 Seats (All Models)
- Performance/Range:
- Cruise Speed: 85 – 135 mph
- Range: 300 – 600 nautical miles
- Service Ceiling: Up to 15,000 ft
- Fuel Type & Efficiency: Avgas
- Special Features:
- STOL Capabilities
- Carbon Fiber Airframe (CubCrafters FX3, Carbon Cub SS)
- Classic Aircraft Design (Legend Cub)
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