Hi Bert.

I built a Flexi-flyer and Hang Loose biplane back in the day, so I can relate well to your experience.

Thanks for your interest in the Goat. It is coming along, though I wish progress were quicker. I was fortunate to connect with another Goat flyer and builder who led me to a great deal on an abandoned Goat project which supplied me with much of the 6061 tubing I need. This mentor has also been a great source of information and building tips. I’ve completed the framework for the rudder, horizontal stabilizer, the elevator, the tail boom and the nose. I used old kayak parts from a skin over frame kayak I made to make the seat. I’ve also fabricated the numerous fixtures for the wings, flaps and ailerons (there are a lot of them!). The wings are the next big project and I recently built a large table in my garage to begin construction.

I’ve also started another airplane kit for the school where I teach part-time (a Rans S21) and a wooden boat project (CLC Oxford II), so I’ve been a bit divided in my priorities and nothing is moving along as fast as I would like. But it keeps me out of trouble or being bored in my retirement.

Despite two surgeries, my torn rotator cuff has left me permanently disabled in certain shoulder movements. I still have a nice S2-135 hanging in my garage and I think I may have sufficient mobility to fly it, but am afraid of my ability to flare properly. Some have suggested adding wheels to my control bar, which I may do, but the Goat might be a better long term solution for me.

I sure miss the free flight scene and hope to join you all in the sky again soon. Anyway, here’s a few pics of progress so far.

Tom

Tom