We're just completing an MCR4S four seater and are expecting 140 kt
cruise
and just 2/1 gross empty ratio on a 100/115 hp Rotax 914.

Regards,

Gilles Thesee

How many of these are flying?

At the moment about 20 four seaters are flying, powered by Rotaxes 912S or
914. One is flying with a Jabiru 3300.

What is it's rate of climb and ceiling at
gross?

It depends on the power unit. With the 100 hp continuous 914, the prototype
achieves 700/800 ft/min at maximum takeoff weight. Since the engine is
turbocharged the rate of climb stays rather constant up to critical
altitude.
The normally aspirated 80 hp Rotax 912 MCR01 two seaters routinely climb up
to 17000 ft over the Mont Blanc.
Our empty weight is expected to be around 375 kg for 750 kg max gross
weight.

Anyone else think that sounds like a lot to expect out of 115 HP ?

Indeed Piper and Cessna pilots SHOULD find that quit a lot ! But the MCRs
are very light and aerodynamically clean.
See http://www.ban-bi.com/

Anyone interested in pictures of our project ?
Regards,

Gilles Thesee
Grenoble, France