Very nice Blue,
I would point out that:
Sonex have only very recently "recognised" Rotax 9 engines for installation in their aircraft, so I wonder how good their data is?
To the best of my knowledge Sonex do not have or ever had, a Rotax powered airframe, with which to arrive at the above figures.
Sonex are so slow to adopt Rotax, that they are only now coming up with a suitable engine mount for future kits
My Sonex Legacy/Rotax 912ULS will easily achieve (Max load):
1500 fpm in Climb Out, 80-100 knots, - I am still working on best climb speed.
130 + Knot True (150 mph) at 3000 ft, 5200 rpm, @ 15L/hr
147 knots indicated 150 + knots (173 mph) at 5450 rpm, 5500 ft, still working on the fuel but believe its 18-19L/hr
If you are wondering about the accuracy of the above air speeds,- the pitot/gauge system has been independently tested and a range of errors noted:
Indicated/Corrected Air Speeds in Knots
40/48.5, 60/66, 100/103, 120/123
140/142, 150/152, 165/166
PS -
For me, speed itself, is only an indicator of airframe efficiency, when powered by the same/competing engines. Sonex recognise engines to 130 hp however it must be obvious to all, that while the speed may be greater, with such an engine, so is the fuel consumed to arrive at that speed. I want to travel in my Sonex , so fuel consumed per hour for a given speed will determine my power setting for near best range - I think my Rotax will do this for me.
Do you think the tendency of US small aircraft manufacturers, to express their aircraft performance, in mph might be because it always looks better than in Knots???😈