History

Roy Marsh's KR2S

The KR series of aircraft were designed and built by Ken Rand and Stu Robinson. First was the KR1 single seat (debuted in 1972) followed by the (almost) two seat version KR2. The company was working on an interesting looking amphibious version the KR3 around the time of Ken Rand's fatal accident in a KR2 (I believe the cause of this accident was never identified, but could be mistaken). 

The company continued, however there were no additions to the line until the early 90's when plans for the KR2S were released. For years, many builders of the KR2 had been making the aircraft longer and wider than the plans called for. The KR2 interior is a tad cozy (in the same way the space shuttle is a tad pricey). Anyway make a KR2 a bit longer and you have a KR2S.

The appeal of the KR series has always been "bang for the buck". The specs quote a max cruise of 180 mph on a 2100cc VW motor. Combine that performance with an advertised kit price of $7,000US (less engine and instruments) and you have one of the best value propositions in the homebuilt category.

Of course nothing is exactly as it looks in the brochure (just ask anyone who has served in the armed forces). Most KR2s seem to cruise about 150-160 and cost a tad more than $7,000 (although slightly less than the shuttle). All things considered, still good "bang for the buck".

The KR is a relatively simple airplane. Even so, I found many of the techniques and materials foreign. The Bingelis books are quite helpful (How the &$%# does he find time to build all those planes and write books?). The catalogues from Aircraft Spruce, Wicks et al are also surprisingly helpful. Jeannete Rand of Rand Robinson has also kindly offered assistance when my own brain was idling a little rough. Don't forget your local DABI or RAA chapter when looking for assistance. Some of the people at your local chapter meeting may already have built 2 or 3 aircraft and can offer sound advice.