I recorded the Homebuilts in Review featuring Mark S and the Sonex Highwing at OSH 2025. If you are interested in the High Wing it probably has all the info you are looking for.
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There’s always going to be that Waiex pilot (at 38:50 or so) harping on Sonex rudder power for crosswind takeoff/landing.
I wish I knew that was you! Do you find you want more rudder authority in the Waiex?
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Absolutely. It’s plenty in flight, but for crosswind you really need to use the solid link tailwheel for yaw authority. Otherwise it will weathervane into the wind on takeoff.
I talked to Mark after the presentation. He said that despite the prior management’s marketing about the Waiex and straight tail being the same - they aren’t. The straight tail has better rudder authority. And he says the high wing is better than a conventional tail Sonex. So it’s going in the right direction. I’d still skip the full swiveling tailwheel that some people put on. I grew up in Piper taildraggers and have landed in a 20kt direct crosswind. Especially in the cub with the high wing - the Pawnee has those low wings which limit what you can do somewhat.
I saw on your channel the ASK21 stuff. I’ve got time flying those and towing them as well.
Though I wish I had more rudder power, the airplane is really cool and I have no regrets building a Waiex instead of the more pedestrian model.
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"I talked to Mark after the presentation. He said that despite the prior management’s marketing about the Waiex and straight tail being the same - they aren’t. The straight tail has better rudder authority. "
I believe that this has been known by most anybody that was paying attention. I prefer the look of the conventional tail and the strength and handling that comes with it.
Another point that needs clarification is the old line about the 200 lbs. FWF of the Sonex. It was never a structural issue to put a heavier engine on the nose (within reason of course) and was rather a weight & balance concern. Mark addressed this in comments to a video about the gross weight increase to 1220 lbs.
The one really nice thing about the high wing is that it can fly two folks for aerobatics. There is a lot to like about the design but I’d have to change that cowling. That’s OK as the unapproved engine I’d use (yulp!) would require a different , and IMHO, much better looking cowling.
In considering a high wing as I get older, this plane seems to be moving it’s way to the top of the list. The design and the cost are the driving factors thus far. It’s fast and made to travel and not so much for STOL … and that appeals to a lot of folks.
I’d heard both sides, but one voice I respect a lot said they were the same. Sometime I’d like to fly a straight tail to see what it is like.
Definitely cool. If I was building one I’d go UL Power 130HP with the aerobatic engine option.