Simonini engines

Good old number 29 · 21 January

In anticipation of receiving my first shipment of Simonini engines, I thought I’d start this thread.
I currently have four Victor 2 Super motors being prepped with different gear ratios and exhausts. I have a mix of other models shipping with them, including the Victor 1, which could also be used in a lightweight Kitfox.
I’ll be posting pics, taking measurements, weighing the different motors and exhaust systems on a certified scale, and measuring thrust. If I get the chance to put them on a dyno, I will. So far, I’ve only found shops with rear-wheel dynos, within flying distance.
So, check back in the next month, or two. If you have any questions or suggestions, let me know what’s on your mind. I want to have full, complete, and accurate information.
Of course, I’ll be writing up the full details of installation and performance on the Kitfox.
If you’re interested in purchasing a Simonini engine, they are available on my website, with more information at straight-aero.com.

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Good old number 29 · 13 February

The manufacturing process for our first order is nearly complete. We received these pics from Simonini, showing some of our motors being near completion, this morning. They also gave us the great news that the shipment should be ready to send out early next week. These will soon be in stock, and available to our customers. I’ll update the website with current inventory as soon as they arrive. If anyone is wondering, the base Simonini Victor 2 Super is priced at €8,700, with twin pipes, from the manufacturer. I want to move some motors into the hands of happy customers, and have priced accordingly.
I’ll post some good pics, along with all the information I can gather, when they arrive. If anyone around here is interested in observing or helping out with some static test runs of one of the motors, I’m planning to make that happen. I want to be able to stand behind my products, 100%, and have firsthand information for anyone who needs it. I’ll be fitting that test motor to my Model 1 and the Model 4, to check fit and clearances with the different motor mounts, bracing, and cowlings, and see how the different exhaust systems fit.

Good old number 29 · 19 February

I was surprised by an email, yesterday morning, offering us an exhibitor space at SUN ‘n FUN. As it turned out, the short notice of the availability, due to a canceled reservation, worked out very well for us. It’s a great spot, between two great companies, Helix Props and Sideslip Aviation. We took the opportunity, and started making the arrangements for our display. The engines are ready to ship. All we had to do is turn the rudder South, a little, and arrange for a stop in Lakeland, along the way. So, if you happen to be in the area, during the show, stop by and check out the Simonini engines. We’ll be at exhibit LP-011, in the light planes area of Paradise City.

Edited 19 February by Good old number 29

Avidventurous · 19 February

I've heard of right rudder but never heard of south rudder. LOL

Good old number 29 · 21 April

Sun ‘n Fun was a blast, as you might expect. From there, it was right back to blow’n snow. I am ready for some fun again.

We’re already gearing up for Oshkosh, where we’ll be in the Homebuilts area, in Booth 625, right across from the Kitfox display. We’ll be there with a complete complement of Simonini motors, and Helix props. That will be July 21-27, 2025.

I hope to do some thrust testing, possibly this week, if the spring weather breaks. Unfortunately, we sold out the dual exhaust, so we’ll have to wait for the next shipment to come in, to get thrust numbers on it. We have it in the works, along with some other good stuff, like the Victor 2 intake equalizer plenum, and more gear ratios, including the 4:1, which might be used for towing gliders.

We will be taking a closer look at the Victor 2 Super installation on the Kitfox 1, and the Model 4. There were some changes in the firewall forward, over the years, so we’ll get a good look at how it mounts on the original flat plate, versus Kitfox’s later cradle style side mount, as well as answering how the exhaust fits.