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NEWS First Completed Homebuilt Texas Sport CUB
Customer proclaims, "It flew beautifully."
In his own words... We received the kit January 7, 2008, which coincidentally was my 62nd birthday. TX-012 was completed in August 2008. The decision to build a Texas Sport Cub was all about the building experience. My friends and I are always doing a project that involves something mechanical. We all fly model airplanes and model helicopters that are quite complex including model jets that can exceed 200 mph. The Texas Sport Cub was prefabricated enough and the kit was complete enough that it looked like something that could be built in a reasonable amount of time so we wouldn't get bored or lose interest before it was finished.
The Cub was my first airplane build other than ultralights, but I have worked on airplanes in the past. I had two friends, Lynn Morgan and Howard Kendal, which helped with the construction. The build was very straightforward and the only new skill required was the covering and painting. The covering turned out to be easy to master and the painting took more hours than I thought to achieve the finish I wanted. We built a temporary paint booth out of a 10' x 20' party tent and a blue tarp in my hobby room to do the painting. The hobby room is at the rear of my company offices.
I received my Private license in 1973 but I had not been actively flying for 20 years. My only prior Cub experience was a few flights in my father-in-law's J-3 many years ago. I flew a Citabria this summer to get current. My partner in the Texas Sport Cub, Marshall Macfarlane, is much more experienced and currently owns a Tiger Moth. He has owned a Christen Eagle and a Classic Waco in the past. The appeal of the Texas Sport Cub to him were the great flying qualities and the ability to extend the flying season compared to an open cockpit biplane when you are located in Michigan.
Marshall did the first flight and all he said was "It flies great; it is easy to fly, go fly it!" I flew the second flight and it flew beautifully. It was in perfect rig and handled well. TX-012 now has over 25 hours and we love it!
A little over six months for the build isn't bad when you consider that I still worked at my job and had a few vacations interspersed.
Larry Markey, Texas Sport customer, 1st completed home-built
NEWS Legend Cub Training and Rental
Two good reasons to train in a Legend Cub...
Because old school is still cool.
Noted author and pilot Jim Busha writes about learning to fly in a Piper Cub in EAA Sport Aviation, November 2007. In this article, he poses the perennial question asked to a pilot on flying a new aircraft type, "What did it fly like?" The common answer being, "It flew like a Cub." For more than 77 years, the Cub has been a benchmark for the dynamics of flight. What better reason to train in a Legend Cub.
Read full article at www.sportpilot.org/learntofly/articles/070917_learning.html.
Because it's not like a Cub, it's better.
Anyone who's ever seen Charlie Kulp perform his 'Silas the Flying Farmer' act ponders the question, 'How is that possible?' According to Kulp, "With this type of airplane, it wasn't meant for aerobatics. A little airplane like this was meant for just primary training. But with the speed way down, you're always hitting the stops on your controls. Seldom do you ever do that in normal flying. I'm always hitting full aileron stop, full rudder stop, full everything. Every evening after flying with the students I used to jump in the Cub and cut up a little bit just for my own pleasure."
After flying in a Legend Cub for the first time, Kulp quipped, "I've flown a Legend Cub and it's not like a Cub. They fixed everything that was wrong with the Cub."
Learn more about the Flying Farmer and his legendary routine at www.theflyingfarmer.com.
Places to train in and to rent a Legend Cub
Getting your tailwheel endorsement means learning to fly with your feet too. Stick AND rudder. Here's a short list of instructors and aircraft available to assist with training:
- Upland, CA -- Tony Settember, Foothill Aircraft, Cable Airport (KCCB), 909-985-1977, tony.settember@gobosh.aero
- North Hampton, NH -- Mike Hart, Hampton Airfield (7B3), 603-964-6749, fly7b3@comcast.net
- Angleton, TX -- Bruce Bohannon, Flyin' Tiger Field (81D), training only, 281-369-0371
- Burnet, TX -- Ken Wittekiend, MCFI, ProMark Aviation Services (KBMQ), 830-385-1593, ken@promarkaviation.net
- LaPorte, TX -- Gideon Jones, CFI, Sport Wings Enterprises (T41), 281-487-4287, gjones@sjdiving.com
- McKinney, TX -- Dave Honaker, Chief Flight Instructor, Four Winds Aviation, Aero Country Airport (T31), 469-766-3500, fourwindsflight@yahoo.com
- Inverness, FL -- James Wolfe, CFI, 352-586-0085, jwolfe4@tampabay.rr.com
- Ocala, FL -- John Nawrocki, CFI, Ocala Aviation Services, 352-861-7484, jrnawrocki@embarqmail.com
- Fairfield, ME -- Jeff Russell, Center for Classic Aircraft Skills, 207-735-6361, russell@flyccas.com
- Ballwin, MO -- Ron Dillard, Advanced Tailwheel Training, 636-236-5142, dillardr@charter.net
- Benson, NC -- Robert Parker, Bob's Flight School (KHRJ), 919-894-1066, busins275@earthlink.net
- Hartford, WI -- Steve Krog, Cub Air Flight LLC, 262-305-2903, sskrog@gmail.com
- National Association of Flight Instructors -- Search for tailwheel (TW) rated flight instructors by state at: www.nafinet.org
NEWS Prop Balancing and Other Aircraft Services at American Legend
American Legend Aircraft Company employs a highly experienced staff that has been performing work on aircraft long before the company was formed. Today, under the American Legend roof, these skilled workers provide annual inspection, routine maintenance, repair, major overhaul, avionics support, and propeller balancing services on a wide range of piston powered aircraft, in addition to Legend Cub and Texas Sport models. American Legend has also made its mark in restoration services specializing in tube-and-fabric aircraft.
As a manufacturer of certified light-sport aircraft and amateur-built aircraft kits, American Legend and Texas Sport provide warranty and maintenance services to more than 160 customers of the Legend Cub and Texas Sport CUB. Routine aircraft maintenance, such as oil change, brake and tire replacement, and tune-ups, can additionally be performed on most piston aircraft. The company is equipped and staffed to work on a range of aircraft from light-sport and experimental to Part 23 certified.
American Legend reminds aircraft owners to protect their investment by performing routine aircraft maintenance. With today's fluctuating economy, an investment in your aircraft will pay higher dividends. Plus you can enjoy the benefits of using your aircraft in top condition.
LIFESTYLE KwikBild is the Experience of a Lifetime
KwikBild™ is a builder's assistance program at Texas Sport Aircraft Company that offers amateur aircraft builders the opportunity to complete their kit-built Texas Sport CUB in a factory setting under the supervision of experienced and professional builders. For many individuals, the opportunity to build one's own airplane can be the experience of a lifetime.
Can I really build my very own airplane?
YES you can. The Texas Sport CUB was designed to be built by anyone with basic skills for using tools and a fundamental knowledge of aircraft. The CUB kit is sold as a complete set of aircraft parts. And, there are no difficult materials to be worked. Any option the builder desires can be sourced right at the Texas Sport factory. Most importantly, under KwikBild the builder will gain the confidence to get things done right.
KwikBild is offered as a 14- or 21-day session where amateur aircraft builders come to the factory, and using these facilities, including tools, fixtures, and equipment, complete the fabrication of their Texas Sport aircraft.
As a certified amateur-built airplane, the Texas Sport CUB will be more than 51-percent completed by the builder. Each Texas Sport CUB is registered to the individual builder as the original manufacturer. Participation in the KwikBild program is like having temporary ownership of an aircraft manufacturing company plus the advantages of a knowledgeable support staff.
If a Texas Sport customer chooses the 14-day program, he will complete his aircraft through the covering phase. In the 21-day program, final assembly and all firewall forward work, including engine installation, will occupy the latter seven days. The factory can additionally provide painting and instrument panel services customized to the builder's desires.
During the build process, the owner will get to know intimately each and every component of his airplane. This knowledge instills confidence in one's ability to pilot his/her CUB as well as a keen insight when aircraft maintenance is performed.
 
This KwikBild's for YOU!
The Texas Sport CUB is derivative of the American Legend Cub and is intended for amateur aircraft builders. It can be certified to 1,600 lbs. gross weight as an experimental aircraft, or it can be certified to 1,320 lbs. and flown with Sport Pilot privileges.
A Texas Sport amateur-built CUB can be any plane you want it to be. It's design is based on the best low-and-slow airplane built today--a conviction we hold dear! Yours can be configured with all latest gadgets imaginable. Start planning and building your CUB today.
LIFESTYLE Recollections of a Legend Cross Country
Plane & Pilot magazine article series, latest installment.
In the latest installment in a series of articles by Jim Lawrence in Plane & Pilot magazine, Jim talks about being a student pilot. Jim flew with American Legend en-route to Lakeland, Florida, for Sun 'n Fun Fly-in 2008. It was a first for the seasoned aviation photographer/writer. Jim is working on obtaining his sport pilot license and received instruction along the way. His writings are fun, evocative, and inspiring.
Photo courtesy of Jim Lawrence
In "The Master As Student," December 2008 issue, Jim perplexes over the trials of learning new skills and conquering the challenges that flying constantly brings to bear. Read the full article at www.planeandpilotmag.com/pilot-talk/more-pilot-talk/the-master-as-student.html
In his previous article "With Six, You Get Aileron Roll," September 2008 issue, Jim recalls his cross-country with the Legend Cubs and recounts many of the experiences along the way. Read the full article at www.planeandpilotmag.com/travel/journeys/with-six-you-get-aileron-roll.html
LIFESTYLE Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport in Northeast Texas
Fly into KSLR and you're bound to see Cubs around.
American Legend and Texas Sport Aircraft Companies are located on Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport, KSLR, in northeast Texas. Here you'll find that the terminal facilities are first class, the folks there are friendly, and on arrival you're just a few steps to the #1 selling American manufactured light-sport aircraft factory.
The airport at Sulphur Springs received a major upgrade in 2002, when Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), city officials, and devoted residents christened recent runway improvements and a new terminal building. The paved runway at KSLR is 5,000 feet long, and a 2,300-foot parallel grass strip is nestled in between the pavement and the adjacent Lake Sulphur Springs. The approach end of runway 18 is over the lake, which adds to the airport pattern's scenic arrival.
In 2003, Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport was awarded airport of the year by TxDOT. KSLR is a model for the coexistence of both corporate and recreational flyers. Fuel is available along with local transportation, lodging, and tourism possibilities. For more information, read about KSLR in the TxDOT newsletter Wingtips, June/July 2006, pp 6-7, ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/avn/avninfo/wing0606.pdf and Feb/March 2007, pp 13-14, ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/avn/avninfo/wing0702.pdf.
It's a rare day when visitors don't stop by to see what's happening. Next time you are flying through northeast Texas, make KSLR your destination.
LIFESTYLE Sensenich Ground Adjustable Prop Exceeding Expectations
It's not always best to be first. Often, being first obliges one to settling the trepidation of the unfamiliar. While something new is something to be explored, it comes with temptation and expectation. When the potential reward is worth a bit of trepidation, something new can be downright fun.
In June of this year, American Legend announced the company would begin offering a new ground adjustable composite propeller by Sensenich for use on the Legend Cub. This new prop was aptly flown on a factory test aircraft. And, the results were quite impressive.
The new Sensenich propeller showed a marked increase in aircraft performance. Early tests showed the Legend Cub gained an additional ten miles per hour top speed over the standard wood prop. The Sensenich prop is also lighter in weight, a bonus when maximizing aircraft payload. Compared to a high-performance metal prop, an additional 12 pounds payload can be gained.
 
With every set of improvements and potential benefits, there are trade-offs. But the new Sensenich ground adjustable propeller has been given high praise. Legend Cub customer Carl Miller shared his thoughts on choosing a propeller, "95-percent of the time Cub flyers are happy as clams putting along at 80 mph and will select a flat prop for it's ability to get off fast and climb well. On the other hand, depending on your mission, there might be a time where you'd like a McCauley 75/35. For instance, getting out of that smallish lake on a warm summer day. Likewise, even in a Cub, there might be an instance where getting to your destination faster (accepting fuel flow penalty) could be more important than enjoying the low and slow. In that circumstance you'd want a coarser prop."
Miller summarized by saying, "What the Sensenich prop does is give you both in one prop, and at only 12 pounds complete. What it comes down to is what do you do with your plane. I intend to be on floats June/July and doing some cross-country in the Spring and Fall, but I don't want to own two props." Sounds like the Sensenich ground adjustable prop is the best of both worlds.
For more on Miller's observations and discussions with others on selecting a propeller for your Cub, go to:
www.j3-cub.com/smf/index.php?topic=2325.0
www.j3-cub.com/smf/index.php?topic=2422.0
READBACK From Legend.aero
Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions fielded from the American Legend Aircraft Company website:
I am on the brink of starting a light-sport Cub project and favor the Legend Cub but would like to incorporate the following modifications:
- Balanced elevators
- Hydrosorb shocks system rather than the die springs
- Welded tabs with captive nuts to permit a removable metal belly back to the rear seat. I will form the skins.
- Finish painted steel fuselage.
I can incorporate some or all these modifications but would appreciate your quotation.
Murray R., Berkley, MA
Editor: The E-LSA Texas Sport CUB must comply with a maximum gross takeoff weight of 1,320 lbs. as specified by light-sport rules. As an experimental aircraft the builder is able to modify the design. The builder must consider the weight of any modifications as well as their engineering impact.
Does the Legend Cub have an electrical system and starter? Thank you.
John G., Westwood Hills, KS
Editor: Yes, the Legend Cub does have an electrical system and starter. This eliminates the need for hand-propping and allows the addition of electrically powered instruments, avionics, and lighting.
Hello. Thanks for the web presence. It's great that your company resurrected the Cub. What a great airplane!
I have questions... all asked in light of my plan to get a Sport Pilot license and acquire a compatible Cub. My great uncle flew Super Cubs in Alaska. When I told him my plan, he pulled his favorite book off the shelf about flying cubs in Alaska. BTW, I plan to fly my Cub only in Texas. In any case, he wanted to be certain I talked these points before going forward. Since I'm not a mechanic, I freely admit I know nothing.
- Propeller -- Rodger Borer's design [82" model tuned for climb performance]
- Safety cables -- F. Atlee Dodge kit [Main Landing Gear Safety Cables p/n 2089, refer to www.fadodge.com]
- Hollow axles -- have mechanic insert short pieces of galvanized steel water-pipe into the axles for reinforcement
- Tires -- 26x10.5x6 6-ply tire w/tube [Tundra tires, refer to www.akbushwheel.com]
- Windshield defroster -- F. Atlee Dodge kit [Defroster kit p/n 3242, refer to www.fadodge.com]
- Metal headlining and extended baggage compartment -- F. Atlee Dodge add-on
- Tailspring -- Piper parts #64079-02, #64079-03, and #64079-04 for their ag-model; one of each is required, and a small bottom plate will have to be made, of hard steel, to hold them at the rear attach-point, using long bolts down each side of the springs.
Your thoughts or comments, please.
R M J.
Editor: Numerous STCs are available for the original Piper Cub, some of which are referenced above. These may enhance the aircraft providing a particular performance benefit. As a manufacturer of certified light-sport aircraft, American Legend has implemented many of the best features of the original Cubs and Super Cubs into its Legend Cub. Please note that adding equipment will add weight to a light-sport aircraft and will require the manufacturer's prior approval. On the Texas Sport CUB, the builder is able to add equipment or modify his aircraft while maintaining compliance with applicable experimental category regulations.
When do you have tours available? When is a good time for tours and how long does a tour usually last? Email me any tour information. I may fly in and tour the facility in the near future. Thanks.
Martin S., Dallas, TX
Is an appointment necessary to visit your factory? I am on travel in Addison, TX, this week and may have time Friday to get out to Sulphur Springs to see your aircraft. I presently own a 1940 J3, and have followed the progress of your company since the start. Unfortunately, your aircraft were not yet in production when I went to light-sport pilot rules, after 7,000+ hours of commercial flying, and bought the J3.
Chuck S., Fairfax, VA
Editor: The American Legend factory in Sulphur Springs, Texas, is located approximately 85 miles east of Dallas Love Field (or central Dallas). Demo flights can be arranged on most days. Please call 903-885-7000 to make arrangements.
I have damage to lower left wing on my Great Lakes biplane. Ran over a VASI light. I will forward pictures. After TDI. I will be able to ferry to your location. Please contact me for more info. I am located in Eastern Oklahoma. Thank You.
Gary B., Cookson, OK
Editor: Yes, we do work on most tube-and-fabric aircraft. Please call us at 903-885-7000, and ask for Restoration Services.
I presently own a 1978 Bellanca Citabria with about 600 hrs on the engine and 2500 on the airframe... I am not certain that I can afford one of your Legend LSA Cubs? But is it possible to trade it in on a new or newer Legend Cub? Do you have dealers in the N.E. or Florida? The Citabria is in my hangar at our Florida airpark home in the Ocala area. As you can see I have many questions and I have seen the model at the Sun 'n Fun air show and have been in love with it ever since. Do you get any trade-ins on these aircraft?
Richard K., Shelter Island, NY
Hello - Retired airline pilot looking for aircraft to introduce 13-year-old son to flying. Live in Wisconsin... would we have to travel to Texas for a demo flight? Or, do you have any available in the upper Midwest? Thanks.
Brian S., WI
Many years ago I had a PA-11 (painted in the original colors like Legend's), then sold it to buy a 180 hp Husky. Always regretted it. Now I can "have it back," which would make a perfect way to get an LSA and have a great little taildragger here on the farm. Seeing Legend's PA-11 really brought back memories. I think they need a dealer in Ohio.
Dave B.
Editor: Please give us a call at 903-885-7000 to discuss your interest in purchasing a Legend Cub. We love to see you "trade-up" to a Legend Cub. We can also give recommendations on how you might find a buyer for your current aircraft, and often we can put you in touch with a representative in your area.
I love the piper cubs, they are great airplanes but I've always wanted better performance. I was wondering if you were have ever considered making new Super Cubs?
Steven H., McHenry, IL
Editor: At American Legend, we consider the Legend Cub to be today's Super Cub. We have incorporated many of the Super Cubs features including fuel in the wings, a 100- or 120-horsepower engine, and outboard wing mounts. These designs, and more, have been implemented into a certified light-sport model that leads the category.
Can you retrofit the autopilot to my Cub? Thanks.
Jon G., LaQuinta, CA
Editor: Yes, we can add an autopilot to your Legend Cub. This is an available option. Operators who have the TruTrak autopilot option enjoy the benefits of reduced pilot workload, especially on longer flights.
I'm interested in a Legend Cub. I plan to be at Oshkosh. Will you have a representative there? What is the time frame from order to delivery?
Dudley C., Spring Lake, FL
I'm interested in the Cub, obviously.... What is your current "waiting list" for delivery? I understand the business of money down to reserve a spot on the production line... just wanted a guess on time-frame from initial order to delivery. Thanks.
Bill C., Midland, TX
Please advise availability of your open or closed cowl models.
Jim L., San Clemente, CA
Do you have any Legend demonstrators, trade-ins, or consignments for sale? Thanks!
Edward B., Burgaw, NC
Editor: We can typically produce a customer-specified factory new Legend Cub in about six weeks. Additionally, we manufacture spec aircraft that can be purchased on shorter notice. Please call 903-885-7000 for more details, or look for the American Legend display booth at AirVenture Oshkosh and Sun 'n Fun Fly-In.
MANUFACTURING American Legend Restoration Services Earns Grand Champion
Customer's restored Piper J3 Cub awarded Gold Lindy at AirVenture 2008
Originally built in 1946, Joe Dobransky's J3C-65 Cub arrived at American Legend in storm damaged condition. Following a thorough inspection and complete disassembly, the J3 was rebuilt to better-than-new condition. American Legend uses modern materials such as advanced polymers and contemporary covering systems on its restoration projects, all the while preserving the classic aircraft's authenticity by refurbishing or installing newly manufactured FAA/PMA approved parts. The result is a like-factory-new aircraft.
The company's dedication to detail is exemplary. Owners have come to expect that taking delivery of their restored, vintage aircraft means the inevitable bugs on the windscreen and the possibility of scuffing the glossy black floorboard. But each customer knows, these aircraft were meant to be flown. The unique sensation of flying a newly restored 75-year-old aircraft is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Customers of American Legend Restoration Services tend to agree and delight in flying and sharing their restored Cubs.
For more on the award winning Cub and American Legend Restoration Services, go to www.legend.aero/restoration.asp.
MANUFACTURING KwikBild Class Schedule
KwikBild™ is a factory assist program for amateur aircraft builders of the Texas Sport Cub kit. The program is a step-by-step course that will guide builders through the 51-percent completion, including fabrication and assembly, of their self-certified Cub aircraft kit. KwikBild starts with a two-week program at our facilities in Sulphur Springs, Texas. You will have access to the tools and knowledge to build your own aircraft. After the two weeks your aircraft will be assembled, inspected, and ready for paint. An optional third week will guide you through the installation of wings and all control surfaces, plus instruments and engine.
Next KwikBild class start date:
February 2, 2009 -- Only 4 slots are available. Advance booking is required. Sign up now for an upcoming KwikBild program by calling Texas Sport Aircraft Company toll-free at 1-866-746-6159.
EVENTS Places To See The Legend Cub
- Upland, California -- January 10-11, 2009, Cable Air Show
- Sebring, Florida -- January 22-25, 2009, U.S. Sport Aviation Expo
- Lakeland, Florida -- April 21-26, 2009, Sun 'n Fun Fly-In
- Lock Haven, Pennsylvania -- June 17-20, 2009, Sentimental Journey to Cub Haven Fly-In
- Oshkosh, Wisconsin -- July 27 - August 2, 2009, EAA AirVenture
- Sulphur Springs, Texas (KSLR) -- Come by the factory, anytime!
For a complete and up-to-date listing of places to see the Legend Cub, visit www.legend.aero/events.asp.
 
REWARD: For information leading to the identification of the person(s) responsible for the TP jobs at Reklaw Fly-In and Jennings Stearman Fly-In 2008. We may send you a Legend Cub cap if you help us solve this mystery!
ORDERING How To Order Your New Legend Cub
Specifying and ordering your new Legend Cub can be done conveniently online. It's simple, just go to www.legend.aero, then click on "Pricing/Options" at the top of the page. You can review a list of available options on the Configuration Options page. On the Legend Cub Order Form page you simply check the options you want. Your aircraft is configured and priced instantly. When you click "Submit" a representative from American Legend will contact you to discuss your order. We look forward to speaking with you about YOUR NEW LEGEND CUB.
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