Hello - first post here. I'm just wrapping up a TW endorsement and I've been looking at a new plane for a while - but also not in a huge rush. I'm set on a 4 seat TW plan and ideally under $100k (well, I'd prefer under $50k but I won't hold my breath). Looking at C180 and maybe even a C170 but not ruling out Maule M5 or M7. Mostly local flying with maybe 1-2 people - nothing too technical at this point. However, I'm originally from Texas and I'd love the ability to do a long XC if possible (but most likely rare).

I stumbled across the Bearhawk 4 place and it looks pretty sweet. I've read about everything I can and I just want to sit in one before I start trying to 'make a deal' on one. There is on currently on Barnstormers website for $80k that needs finished (says it is only 1-2 months away but he has health issues now and can't finish it). So, brand new zero time engine and non-registered plane.

Anyone close enough to Morgantown, WV where I can come visit and just see a 4 place Bearhawk in person? Or maybe even provide a few pointers on what to look for in one when buying a non-finished one?

Bob Barrows, the BH designer is in Fincastle, VA. If that isn’t close enough then google the Bearhawk builders map and check it.

I laughed to myself when I saw that ad on BS a few days ago. I wouldn’t count on everything being there to complete it nor would I plan on finishing it in a couple months. I swag you’ll be spending over $100k to finish it and a year or more.

Your leaving your budget too open to be a realistic shopper. Either you have $50k or $100k or maybe money is no factor.

If your shopping for a $50k airplane then a Pacer, Stinson, 170, or some Maules are what you should be looking for.

In the $100k range you might find a C180, a later model Maule, or a Bearhawk.

Whee is spot on.

The range you are posting is somewhat limiting. A decent 180 or a nice 170. Figure out your number, match it with your 90% mission and go from there. Many threads on this website to educate yourself. Good on you getting TW endorsement. Speaks volumes to what you what to as an aviator.

This site is a great resource by the way. Welcome aboard.

MW

Bearhawks vary so much in quality of build, that their viability is going to depend on that. Even the crappiest Cessna was built with a baseline of QC. I've seen stuff even on "quickbuild" Bearhawks that makes me cringe.

Unless you want to build, replace the Bearhawk idea with a Maule. To quote the tongue-in-cheek saying: "they're the best certified homebuilt aircraft you can buy."

Pretty tough to beat a C180, or a Maule.
I like my 180, but have flown alongside of & ridden in my buddy's Maule M7-235 & it's pretty comparable.
Dunno where Maule prices are, but I think you can find a pretty good 180 for under $100K if you look around.
IMHO the skywagon is kinda like the Bonanza & the supercub-- they're benchmarks to which other airplanes are compared.

whee wrote:Bob Barrows, the BH designer is in Fincastle, VA. If that isn’t close enough then google the Bearhawk builders map and check it.

I laughed to myself when I saw that ad on BS a few days ago. I wouldn’t count on everything being there to complete it nor would I plan on finishing it in a couple months. I swag you’ll be spending over $100k to finish it and a year or more.

Your leaving your budget too open to be a realistic shopper. Either you have $50k or $100k or maybe money is no factor.

If your shopping for a $50k airplane then a Pacer, Stinson, 170, or some Maules are what you should be looking for.

In the $100k range you might find a C180, a later model Maule, or a Bearhawk.

That $80k BH that needs to be finished only has an O320 on it...I’m pretty sure you want north of 200HP on a 4-place Bearhawk.