Satisfied with the lightweights, the Sorrells in 1967 constructed a sturdier negative-stagger single-place biplane powered with a converted 125 hp GPU by Lycoming. It had a streamlined fuselage profile with the windshield fairing right down to the spinner and no tapering of the side frames at the tail. Unusual was the method of mounting up – lift the rear portion of the skylight, climb up on top of the fuselage and slide down into the single seat.
Registered N3717 and named “Biggy Rat” by a younger Sorrell with an artistic bent, with the 125 hp and a very thin (10%) airfoil, “Biggy Rat” could cruise at 130 mph indicated – and could still operate with relative ease out of their 900 ft. cul-de-sac airport.
With a beefier structure and adequate power, John and Mark were able to indulge themselves in some aerobatics. “Biggy Rat” is very light on the controls – even touchy – and has done with ease all that has been asked of it in its 160+ hours of flying time.
All Aero 