In California it's no big deal. There are probably 20 or 30 fabric planes on the ramp at KPAO.

On counter at KBUU today.

Wouldn’t that be fun on skis?

Wouldn’t that be fun on skis?

I know this is conventional wisdom but how true is it really? Browsing Barnstormers and seeing planes listed at 15k or so I definitely see it, but some of the ~25k listings look quite clean, which is consistent with that being the upper end of the market for some of these models.

If a new airplane is desired, U-Fly-It still have a version of Aerolite 103 in their catalog that's priced under $20k:
https://www.uflyit.com/aerolite_103_prices.htm

The comments in this thread have been helpful. I’ve been looking closely at C120/140s as they seem to check a lot of boxes (electrical system for example). Interestingly enough I noticed that many Champs or even Luscombes on the market are all A65s without electrical systems. Were those models just typically never upgraded over the years or those that were not hitting the internet?

There's really no practical upgrade to a A65 for electric starting. There are a few weird options like one that uses a cordless drill and another that requires installing a large ring gear behind the prop. In addition these planes are usually severely weight limited and a battery plus starter and alternator (if you could do that) would pretty much eliminate carrying any passengers.

There were Chanps that came with electrical systems and starters, though I don’t remember which ones. Interestingly, I flew in one that had been uograded to 90hp, but because there had never been a certified Champ with 90hp and the electrical system, they had to take out the electrical system to confirm to the type certificate. The switch panel on the bulkhead was still there, it just wasn’t connected to anything.

The Cessna 120/140 looks like a ton of fun for the cost.

KJ

I've been watching that one for awhile. I was wondering how cheap it was going to get before someone bought it.

My first plane was a Piper Tripacer...1954, 135hp. $3000, which was 3 months pay in 1972 or thereabouts. If you don’t want a taildragger, and need more than 2 seats, consider this.

Though, I have no idea of market value these days.

I think the 120/140 is a lot of bang for the buck. Factory metal spars, fuel in the wings (and plenty of it), electrical system and fun to fly. Get a light one. Extra weight in these little airplanes is a big deal. Lots of good info at https://www.cessna120-140.org.

A Champ or cub would probably be even more fun but a good example will be nearly twice the price.

Robert

Holy cr@p I am going to need to check my logs. I was an Auburn University CFI way back in the day.. although the aviation department kicked me out because I declared Accounting as a major (paid better back then)..