Most of you know I am pro experimental and despise certified aircraft. Well, that was put to the test yesterday as a commercial pilot buddy needed someone to fly left seat while he adjusted his high tech cameras. He takes pictures of the planet for people. Government agencies, etc. Google earth type stuff with thermal imaging. Amazing technology...... but I digress.
Anyway, we load up and after a brief panel go over we head for the runway. Take off was long and it was just the two of us.
The turbo was overhauled 2 years ago for $9k.
So we begin our flying pattern so the camera records the earth below. Hmm. This thing is smooth. Trimmed out straight and level it holds altitude like being on a string. Controls were heavy compared to the 10. But it was a nice ride.
The RV-10 is much more nimble, responsive, and lighter. It flies faster, carries more weight, no retract, no turbo to overhaul, and burns less fuel, and burns çar gas.
Seriously, you guys really own and fly these things?
The RV-10 is cheaper, costs less to maintain, flies faster, and looks better. Granted the doors won't fly off if you forget to lock them, but hey a proper pre flight and you are good to go.
I was really impressed with the smoothness, but that is due to the weight penalty I guess.
Buy an RV-10 over the Piper Saratoga you will be glad you did.
Did you really think I would like the Saratoga?
Its a certified airplane! 
Anyway, we load up and after a brief panel go over we head for the runway. Take off was long and it was just the two of us.
The turbo was overhauled 2 years ago for $9k. So we begin our flying pattern so the camera records the earth below. Hmm. This thing is smooth. Trimmed out straight and level it holds altitude like being on a string. Controls were heavy compared to the 10.
But it was a nice ride. The RV-10 is much more nimble, responsive, and lighter. It flies faster, carries more weight, no retract, no turbo to overhaul, and burns less fuel, and burns çar gas.
Seriously, you guys really own and fly these things?
The RV-10 is cheaper, costs less to maintain, flies faster, and looks better. Granted the doors won't fly off if you forget to lock them, but hey a proper pre flight and you are good to go. I was really impressed with the smoothness, but that is due to the weight penalty I guess.
Buy an RV-10 over the Piper Saratoga you will be glad you did.
Did you really think I would like the Saratoga?
Its a certified airplane! 