Hey guys,

Looking at the addition of a Sportsman STOL kit on my 172. And have some questions for those of you who have flown a before and after on a 170/172 with the sportsman.
I have read countless reviews and testimonials on the performance improvements that come with the install of this leading edge kit. But all mostly pointed toward lowering stall speed, improved aileron control, shorter takeoff and landing, and improved rate of climb. Which are all things I’m looking for in this kit.

But the question I have is how much was your rate of climb improved, when light and at max gross?

I haven’t seen anything published other than just improved. I understand this is a very dynamic subject and a lot goes into rate of climb, temp, elevation, DA, weight, wind, airspeed, etc... but on average what was the improvement you saw on your rate of climb?
Using Vx or Vy as a reference,,, no noticeable difference,100-200 fpm, 300-500 fpm improvement?!?

Thanks all

Sea level, pilot half tanks, I think I see 700fpm where I used to see 500fpm.

That's totally anecdotal.

Definitely much faster off the ground, more aileron authority a lot slower, and almost no noticeable break at stall - it just mushes and easy to keep wings level with rudder.

Don't hesitate, you will love it.

Rate of climb is more a factor of engine/prop power than wing mods.

In a steady state, wing lift equals aircraft weight. That’s whether climbing, descending, or in level flight.

With a wing mod, you might find your airplane in a more efficient attitude for climbing, but I’d be surprised to see significant differences.