As owner of what I believe is the prototype AirBike I have observed that in flight the aircraft requires constant back pressure on the stick. This aircraft has about 3-5 degrees down thrust in the engine mount (Rotax 447). I do not have any plans or documentation for this aircraft. Do the plans for subsequent AirBikes specify any down or side thrust?
Thanks
Joe Scalet

I don't recall any downthrust in my engine.  Most likely you are just nose heavy.  The prototype Airbike used a 277.  

If the elevator arrangement is the same as the Max, the elevator will droop under its own weight. Fixed using either bungee cord on stick, or aerodynamic trim tab.

I don't know how you'd tell if it was pitching down due to nose heaviness or if elevator droop was the cause. But if you've done a W&B check that should rule out nose the heavy case.

Bruce

I have an adjustable spring connecting the elevator horn to the Teleflex cable anchor post. I am able to adjust it so there in almost no pressure on the stick.

monte

My plans show zero down thrust and zero left or right thrust. As with Monte, my elevator also has a spring to "trim"it. You might try putting your glasses on then you won't have to lean so far forward to see where you are going;-} By leaning forward you are likely throwing the CG out of whack. Have fun and tolerate the wisecracks.

Paul Fiebich

Thanks Paul, that was the answer I was looking for as I do not have a copy of the plans (if indeed there ever were any). I believe the down thrust in my engine came about with the adaptation  from the original Zenoah and the subsequent Rotax 277 mounts. My W&B is right where it should be, The horizontal stab is welded in place so it is either drooping elevator or down thrust. Flight test card will tell.
Joe