YeahBuddy wrote:
I am under the impression that the Pitts is a much more capable acro
machine, but it seems the setup of the Zlin (tricycle gear) would be
more conducive to using it for upset training and private/commercial
training while also enabling me to do/instruct acro for a lot less
insurance cost (since all my time would be tricycle-type gear time by
the time I'm ready to purchase). But I may be way off on what it cost
to get a decent 142 these days. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

I've never had the chance to fly a Zlin 142/242, but I'd say that the
statement
that the Pitts is much more capable is accurate. Also the 142 has the
Walter
inline engine, which could be a pain to maintain. The 242 with the
200hp Lyc.
is more attractive-more expensive. (Anyone around here that has tried
to
provide training/rental with a Zlin hasn't lasted long, although one
college uses
the 242 as a trainer.)

If you want a tricycle gear trainer that can do basic aeros, why not
just get an
Aerobat? It will be a lot less expensive to purchase/operate than the
Zlin and
almost as capable. (As I understand it, the 142 can do basic sportman
maneuvers, but not snap rolls. The Aerobat can't fly inverted, but can
snap.)

As for the Pitts, it's a wonderful airplane, but will require a serious
checkout
even if you have tailwheel time and you would probably have to operate
dual only.

If you want to teach students how to get back upright after an upset,
the
aerobat might suffice. (The Pitts rolls so easily, I'm not sure it
gives a
student a realistic feel for what rolling a typical airplane is like.
Also, since
most airplanes have yokes, maybe the students should experience a
yoke for emergency upset training.) Training students for competition
aeros or similar is another kettle of fish entirely. The
Decathlon/Pitts/Extra
is the typical way to go for that.

Just my $0.00 worth, rick