It looks like Vans has finally stepped up to the plate with a bush kit big tire all metal high wing.

Probably not a direct competitor to the fabric products like Kitfox, but it will be a strong competitor with new all metal Rans S21 and the established Zenith.


One of the videos (since taken down) claimed the new RV15 may quickly become the #1 kit at Vans, and they also noted they are launching a nose wheel option from day one to attract the 85% of the GA market that is not tail wheel rated. There was also mention of insurance benefit of the nose wheel, and performance reference to prop clearance advantages as well as unblocked view angles. The huge full length floor pan makes a great spot to unroll a sleeping bag for sure.


Interesting focus on the nose wheel… carbon cub has a video claiming their nose wheel model out performs the tail wheel with shorter take off and landing.


Even with the RV bush kits still years away, those who sign up at EAA with unknown pricing will have a kit before many currently waiting on long wait list alternates.


Has anyone heard if the SW ELECTRIC STOL will pull back its top secret cloak at 2022 AV with a demo of its reverse spin prop / Draco like virtually instant stop maneuver - how is that going to compete at high sierra against the longer roll gassers? Evidentially there is a China prebuilt electric bushy ultra lite kit with a 40 minute hot swap battery that may be at EAA this year. Crazy design, the batteries are inside the tires.


Anyway, looks like the bush category is getting bigger with more options.