I have flown both versions and was part of the crew that blew up a wing during static load testing. There are at least two fixes for the structural issue which Bob correctly.identified.

Handling qualities and performance are average and somewhat reminiscent of the Ventus that was used to create the design. There were large variations in the wing profile and smoothness on the ship I worked on. I was unable to get a decent contour on the wings despite many hours of filling and sanding. There was a depression on the upper skin that was too large to fill. Having wing skins lying around unsupported and bonding them outside of a mold is a poor strategy.

This is NOT a project I would undertake. Overhaul a Std Cirrus or similar or get one of Bob's kits, if available. i like building and working on aircraft. I did not enjoy working on the Spirit and the end product was highly unremarkable. All 1st/2nd gen. Factory glass ships are far better and easier to rig, fly, and maintain. And you do not have to fit a trailer from first principles- a challenging exercise unto itself.

Buying a glass ship from a random builder? Pass. I would require a static load test on all lifting surfaces prior to sale. And I would want to see it first-person.

Tom Riley in Tehachapi has an exceptional Spirit and trailer but is replacing it with an AS-W27. Perhaps a clue?