Six Chuter Inc. has completed flight testing on the 2010 Paragon and the results are outstanding. The Paragon continues an
2010 Legends Built on Light Weight, Strong Single Spar
evolution of the original Six Chuter designs maintaining the essence of all Six Chuters. The distinctive fanguard and other features quickly identifies the Paragon as pure Six Chuter. The Legend XL that completed FAA certification in 2008 is built on an aluminum spar that replaces traditional frame rails. The spar is topped with a one piece aluminum deck that provides strength and elminates numerous brackets required on traditional models. And the entire deck is strengthened with gussets on the underside.
Though Six Chuter had produced several Legend XL models with the 912 engine installation, the idea on the Paragon was to enhance the Legend specifically for this engine installation. The entire aircraft was lengthened by 3″, more weight was added to the front end including a steel insert in the spar, and the firewall, and engine installation was improved and standardized. A new gas tank configuration, a gascolator, and improved instrument and control layout all added to the uniqueness of the Paragon.
Test Pilot Doug Maas Checking out the Fit and Controls
The first Paragon used the standard XL outrigger system. This unit owned by our European distributor Joe Kolek completed test flights in June. The unit turned out to be perfectly balanced on the ground and in the air. This unit equipped with the Rotax 912 UL 80 HP engine provided spectacular performance even at gross weight.
This aircraft is destined for Prague and was equipped with dual controls to facilitate training others in Europe. The dual controls on the Legend XL and the Paragon are strong, effective and easy to use.
Paragon 912 UL Engine with Aluminum Gas Tank and Toucan Exhaust
The engine installation uses a “firewall” on the back of the pylon for most of the electronics, the fuel pump and the oil reservoir. We chose the Downwind Technology “Toucan” exhaust system for looks and adaptability to our engine installation.
Paragon with Optional "Halo" Outrigger System
performance. We completed tests on two units with single pilots and at gross weights and utilized the Sunriser 500 and 550 wings. We were a bit surprised that there was no tendency at all for the cart to tip back during canopy kiting, that we suspected might occur with the higher attachment points. And the climb performance and stability proved to be superior.
Most Back Seat Room in the Industry!
We have two more Paragon’s in production, one with the standard outrigger system and the other with the optional Halo. Both of these units will be completed as Special Light Sport aircraft with instructor dual controls. The Paragon is currently available for certification either as SLSA or ELSA. We will be posting additional photos and exciting videos of the Paragon flight performance.