ORIGINAL: JohnW
I really don't see a problem with either the GP Ultrasport or the Sig SE as a second plane if the pilot has mastered thier trainer
I agree, depending on the individual, and the definition of "Mastered"
and they have an experienced pilot spotting for them the first several flights.
Again, I agree, but this is another area where MANY people will "cut the cord" too soon.
If one really can fly their trainer well, they will be bored quickly with a traditional second plane. I actually had a GP-Ultrasport as my second plane and have no regrets, in fact I firmly believe it was the right decision for me.
It may be the right desision for many... It can also be the wrong desision for many others.
I know many that have successfully used Sig SE's and Lanier Stingers as second planes. With proper instruction, many pilots are capable of moving from a trainer to solo flying these planes.
And many are not
The nice thing about these planes is that they are more honest in flight than a traditional second plane and they present a better platform for learning advance flight.
The bad thing about them is that they are faster than an intermedaite trainer, and much less forgiving if you get in trouble.
I'm not saying you're wrong John, in fact, everything you said is absolutely correct. I'm just playing "Devil's Advocate". While everything you say is true, there are a lot of "If's" and "Many's". I'm just filling in the "between the lines" for those who are not aware of them.