ZODIAC XL Performance - CH601 Kit Plane

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ZODIAC XL

The following performance figures are based on prototype test results of the ZODIAC XL. Figures are based on initial flight test data. Demo flights in the aircraft can be arranged by appointment to verify performance figures.

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PERFORMANCE	Rotax 912S (100 hp)		Jabiru 3300 (110 hp @ 3000 rpm)		Lycoming O-235 / 233 (115 hp)
ZODIAC CH601 XL	Gross Weight 1,300 lbs.	Gross Weight 590 kg.	Gross Weight 1,300 lbs.**	Gross Weight 590 kg.**	Gross Weight 1,300 lbs.	Gross Weight 590 kg.
MAX CRUISE (sea level, continuous)	134 mph	216 km/h	138 mph	222 km/h	138 mph	222 km/h
75% CRUISE @ 8,000 ft. (TAS*)	155 mph	250 km/h	160 mph	258 km/h	160 mph	258 km/h
VNE	160 mph	260 km/h	160 mph	260 km/h	160 mph	260 km/h
Vs1 STALL SPEED - no flaps	51 mph	82 km/h	51 mph	82 km/h	51 mph	82 km/h
Vso STALL SPEED - flaps down	44 mph	70 km/h	44 mph	70 km/h	44 mph	70 km/h
RATE OF CLIMB	900 fpm	4.6 m/s	1200 fpm	6.1 m/s	930 fpm	4.8 m/s
TAKE-OFF ROLL	550 feet	168 m.	500 feet	152 m.	500 feet	152 m.
LANDING DISTANCE	500 feet	152 m.	500 feet	152 m.	500 feet	152 m.
RANGE (std., SM)	656 miles	1056 km.	662 miles	1065 km.	575 miles	925 km.
ENDURANCE (std.)	4.9 hours	4.9 hours	4.8 hours	4.8 hours	4.2 hours	4.2 hours
LOAD FACTOR (G) ultimate***	+ 6 / - 4 g	+ 6 / - 4 g	+ 6 / - 4 g	+ 6 / - 4 g	+ 6 / - 4 g	+ 6 / - 4 g

Performance figures given at standard atmosphere, sea level, no wind, unless otherwise indicated. All technical data, specification and performance figures subject to change without notice. Range and endurance figures are quoted with no fuel reserve.
* TAS is indicated airspeed corrected for temperature and altitude. The corrections are approximate.
** Jabiru 3300: preliminary flight test results, with 350 lbs. load. Cruise at 2800 rpm. *** Per AMD Zodiac CH 601XL / CH 650 SLSA Pilot Operating Handbook (11/09) Operating Limitations.

ZODIAC XL... Designed for Performance

SPORT PILOT READY ZODIAC XL: The standard ZODIAC XL kit aircraft meets the definition of a Light-Sport Aircraft as defined by "Certification of Aircraft and Airmen for the Operation of Light-Sport Aircraft" (7/20/04). A Sport Pilot may fly any aircraft that meets the definition of a Light-Sport Aircraft, and such aircraft does not need to change its certification category to be operated by a Sport Pilot. Note: Max. Cruise = Max Continuous Airspeed (straight and level), sea level.

NOTE: Specification and performance figures are based on standard factory prototype flight test results, and are subject to change and revision without prior notice. Zenith Aircraft Company cannot guarantee that the aircraft, as constructed by the builder, will meet the definition of a Light-Sport Aircraft. Due to the gross weight and stall speed limitations of the Sport Pilot / Light-Sport Aircraft category, it is recommended that the aircraft be kept "as light as possible" if planning to operate the aircraft in this category. Larger and heavier engines and other installed equipment will limit the useful load of the aircraft, and may disqualify the aircraft from meeting the defined category limits. Subject to meeting actual FAA rules.

"It runs fast, carries a decent load and offers a comfortable cabin. As you might expect from a designer who has several certificated airplanes to his credit, it flies with no surprises..."

CustomPlanes magazine

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Vigorous performance:
"My evaluation of cruise speed showed about 140 mph at 2800-2900 rpm, however, the company plans a different prop for Sport Pilot. At a 130-mph cruise, Zodiac XL felt faster. The numbers don't relate perfectly to the sensation of speed. It might have been the open bubble canopy, which insures massive visibility, but also imparts a sense of motion. The canopy had good optical qualities, seeming distortion free to my eyes.
"Using 100 mph for good over-the-nose visibility, Zodiac XL's climb rate hit 900 fpm with two on board weighing something less than full gross. Using a climb prop installed for Sport Pilot — to restrain its speed so as to stay within the definition — the climb rate might exceed 1,000 fpm. My trials with steep turns done at 45-50� of bank showed stable and steady characteristics. It reveals the Zodiac as an efficient flying machine."

General Aviation News, August 2002

"[Chris Heintz] designs have earned an excellent reputation among pilots, builders, and aviation authorities for their durable all-metal construction, normal flight characteristics, reliability, and low maintenance."
-- EAA Sport Aviation magazine

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Zenith Aircraft Company
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Mexico, Missouri, 65265 USA.
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� Zenith Aircraft Company: 2013-09-30