Vaughn Simon wrote:
"Gig 601XL Builder" wrDOTgiaconaATsuddenlink.net wrote in message
...
Loose some weight Darrel. 
The 601XL cockpit is wider than a 172
at 44 inches. It is a little tighter because of the center console
but after you get used to it it is much more comforable than a 172.
I recently checked out in the factory-made version of the 601 and
find the climb performance with two aboard marginal (and I live at
sea level). Because of this, it is the only plane that my FBO
routinely does not fill the tanks on. Balanced against that, I love
the visibility, love the maneuverability, & love the modern panel
after a lifetime of steam gauges. You can feel what I assume is the
wing spar sticking into your back through the otherwise comfortable
seats. It would be just bad enough to totally ruin a long XC.
I've flown in 3 different 601XL. One that was Jabiru powered and two Corvair
powered. I haven't flown in the O-200 powered version and only with a
relitively light pilot in the Jab version. The Jab climbed at just under
1000 fpm. Both the Corvair powered 601s beat that with more load.
I think that was probabaly the seat design the factory uses sticking in your
back. They break the seats into two parts and the bottom comes up to about
the lumbar area of your back. I didn't like that either and plan to use a
different approach.
I am not sure that I would describe it as "roomy". For example, my
kneepad limits stick movement, so I have to leave it off my leg and
drape it across the center console. Being a "glider guy", I have no
problem with canopies in general, but find the one on that particular
plane to be a serious disappointment. One needs to fuss with it to
get things to line up before it will click closed. This is best done
with two sets of hands & is a total pain when solo.
And it is not the easiest thing to build either. I'm doing that now.
My general feeling is that it could easily be my favorite 2-place
if it had a few more feet of wingspan to help the climb and a few
important details attended to.
Vaughn