Are old Aeroncas the best kept secret in aviation?

[Low Lead]

I lack any objective data but look at this guy (who happens to be me) having more fun than a bad dog in a non-Piper aircraft on morning snow patrol. Also I can't believe how ridiculously far no-bounce oleos extend. I love them when the are fully loaded but anything less is the definition of squirrely. I've taken to landing like I would to seriously bounce a bungee geared Cub just to fully compress them.

 

[Bob Turner]

The best deal in aviation is the next step up - a Citabria - followed by the early metal wing Mooneys with sealed gas tanks. That said, the truly best deal was when my buddies bought a 7AC with 0-200, extra fuel, and beautiful recent cover for $28 K. I got to go pick it up - a rocket ship! Didn’t go very fast, but straight up over Angel Fire Airport!

 

[Low Lead]

That's an amazing deal for that 7AC Bob. Honestly all of the Aeronca/Citabria/Decathalons seem undervalued to me.

 

[Goodyear]

Oleo gear is definitely an acquired taste. My only experience was 3 days in an old Champ flying across country. Bad headwind and 58 mph average. Every landing for me with the oleo was an adventure. Thank goodness the brakes worked.

 

[Low Lead]

Agreed on the acquired taste Goodyear. I'm sure some of you have seen this old Aeronca landing gear video but it really showed me what this gear could do back in the day:

Oleo Landing Gear Demo

 

[Goodyear]

That video is amazing. It explains my problem. I was trying to avoid dropping it in and groundlooping.