So, it looks like you are going "Bambi" style? I totally agree with you on the this style of canopy, having had almost 200 hours in the "Clamshell" type, and now over 100 in the "Gull Wing" type that is on the Black Bird. The KR does not lend itself well to the slider like on some RVs, or even the push forward as was on the early Lancair, but the tilt forward does work very well in every implementation that I have seen. However, I think I prefer the N56ML version over the "Bambi" version and look forward to your assessment of both types.
Other bonus that I see with the forward tilt, are ingress and egress from both sides, and the ability to completely remove the canopy for maintenance. While the "Gull Wing" is strong and safe, and is good for cooling, it really is lacking in these features. If there was ever any reason that I had to replace mine, it would be with the "Tilt Forward" type. See N64KR at http://KRBuilder.org - Then click on the pics? See you Oct. 4 and 5, 2013 - KR Gathering in Mt. Vernon, Il ? MVN Daniel R. Heath -?Lexington, SC -----Original Message----- In my mind, front-hinged offers a much safer alternative to the side-hinged plans-built version, because prop-wash closes the canopy, rather than ripping it off! A bonus is that while taxiing, you can open the canopy and sit up on the seat back for a perfect 270 degree view...no S-turns required. And cooling during the summer is much better, and requires no hands
