Quickie Q2 Lite, Construction Manual

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DESCRIPTION AND INTRODUCTION
DESCRIPTION AND INTRODUCTION: The Q2 is a high performance, homebuilt
aircraft. Its compact external size and extremely efficient design
results in superb performance and unequalled fuel economy using a low
horsepower engine. Inside, it provides side-by-side seating comfort
for a pilot up to 6'8" tall and 250 lbs, plus passenger, as well as
some baggage in the roomy compartment behind the seat. Its canard
configuration was designed not only for performance, but to provide
improved flying qualities and safety as compared to the conventional
light plane.
..... The origin of the Q2 dates back to 1977. Although the Q2 has
much in common with the QUICKIE, considerable progress has been made
since that earlier effort. As a result, the Q2 has lower drag than
any other two place aircraft available to the public. Likewise, it
has proven to be the most fuel efficient two-place aircraft ever
offered to the public.
..... The Q2's high-lift canard (forward wing) is fitted with a plain
elevator that controls the aircraft's pitch attitude. The canard also
serves as the main landing gear spring since the main gear is mounted
on the tips of the canard. This feature results in a remarkably
smooth ride as well as outstanding ground stability during taxiing,
takeoff, and landing.
..... Roll capability is provided by ailerons on the inboard position
of the main wing.
..... Yaw control is provided by a rudder mounted on the vertical fin,
and is actuated by conventional rudder pedals.
..... The pitch and roll capability is provided by a side stick
controller in the center of the cockpit. This feature permits precise
control of the Q2 while reducing pilot fatigue and cockpit clutter.
..... Optional dual controls provide the option of pilot checkout and
instruction.
..... The tail wheel is actuated directly from the rudder pedals,
without any springs, thus providing positive steering at all times
while on the ground.
..... Since the tail wheel is not raised on takeoff roll like other
tail draggers, this positive steering is available until the aircraft
is airborne, making for very safe takeoff and landing
characteristics.
..... Even though the Q2 has low horsepower, it can outperform most
general aviation aircraft while retaining unequalled fuel economy.
The maximum speed is actually faster than most retractable gear
aircraft, such as the Piper Arrow, and the fuel economy exceeds
60 miles per gallon.
..... The Q2 obtains this remarkable performance without resorting to
retractable landing gear, without flaps, without turbochargers, and
without variable pitch propellers.
..... Further, the Q2 was designed to be built by the inexperienced
builder, so these Q2 Construction Plans and the Q2 kit contents have
been developed for ease of construction. Construction time should
require only 500 man hours spread over less than one year of the
builders spare time, with no special tools required.