The "Superlight" Ultralight And The "Supertrike" Tricycle

Belite Aircraft has brought two new ultralight aircraft to AirVenture this year, rolling out a low cost version of the "Superlite" FAA Part 103 high performance single seat aircraft, and a tricycle gear configuration as well.

The traditional taildragger model Superlite features a flying weight of 254 pounds, complete with a Hirth 50HP engine (derated for FAR Part 103 compliance).

The standard Belite Superlite has upgraded features including a recovery parachute Belite aircraft models are all designed to provide recreational flyers with economically priced, easy to build and operate aircraft that make flying affordable and accessible, even to pilots without any medical or conventional pilot's license. All are Part 103 compliant.

The Superlite is Belite Aircraft's entrant in the Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) category and requires a ground roll of only about 200 feet to get airborne. It is equipped with a twin-opposed cylinder 50 HP Hirth engine with dual ignition. In order to remain with FAR Part 103 parameters, it is limited to approximately 38HP to ensure that ultralight cruise speed limitations of 62 mph are not exceeded. When owner built as an experimental aircraft, owners may dial in full engine power through a 60 x 38 propeller, providing even more takeoff and cruise performance.

The low cost version of the Superlite deletes expensive options that many pilots don't require:  Carbon Fiber Wings and interior options, ballistic parachute, etc. This saves substantial money, without sacrificing performance. In fact, performance increases slightly due to the lighter weight.

The new low cost Superlite features: 

• Hirth 50HP engine with high thrust two blade prop (derated to 38HP for Part 103 compliance).
• Dual Ignition, standard.
• Fully welded 4130 aircraft steel fuselage surrounds the pilot.
• Windshield with 360 degree vision.
• 4 point safety harness.
• Belite Avionics panel with Air Speed, AGL Altimeter, CHT/EGT, and Inclinometer.
• 4 position flaps with high lift Riblett airfoil wing design.
• 5 gallon spun aluminum fuel tank.

The Superlite uses the exact same fuselage and wing as the Belite 254 standard ultralight model. The engine mount, engine and propeller provide a new performance combination. The fuselage and cabin area are welded aircraft steel for safety and strength. The cockpit windshield and cabin top are Lexan for safety and 360 degrees of vision. The Superlite also comes with a 5 gallon aluminum fuel tank, which is lightweight and durable.

For pilots who prefer a tricycle gear aircraft, Belite's "Supertrike" Ultralight offers powerful performance along with easy takeoff and landing, eliminating the need for tailwheel training. The Supertrike is fitted with more lightweight components and a bigger engine, improving wing strength and providing performance. As a result, the Supertrike design has the same great flying qualities as the Belite Superlite, except it has easy landing tricycle gear.

"We introduced the Supertrike because our customers want a tricycle gear ultralight with state of the art construction, impeccable landing manners and with great performance," said James Wiebe, CEO of Belite Aircraft. "The Supertrike delivers it all: carbon fiber wing spars, a powerful engine, recovery parachute and much more."

 As with all Belite Aircraft, The Supertrike is FAR Part 103 compliant, but its ground handling and landing manners are much like a Cessna 172.

The Supertrike features a free castering nose wheel, a 5 gallon spun aluminum fuel tank and a fully-covered cockpit interior. It includes a 45 HP engine. Optional spring landing gear allows for smoother taxiing and landing. Folding wings are standard. Pricing is dependent on options ordered.

The new low-cost Belite starts at $28,655.  A typical Supertrike is priced at $42,256, including the 45HP engine, a recovery parachute, tricycle gear, and recovery parachute. The standard tricycle gear Belite sells for $26,995

FMI: www.beliteaircraft.com