The solo/single seat aircraft is no cheaper than a 2 seat side by side aircraft as they cost the same to build.
The solo machine is designed to perform. The airframe is balanced for optimum wing/chute penetration. A solo machine basically means that the weight difference between pilots is likely to be only approx 50-60 kilos, so the craft is set up to fly pilots that weigh from 60-120 kilo, this means you can fly a smaller wing/chute which gives you a faster speed and a much more stable flight. More weight with a smaller wing results in a smoother and stable flight even in windier conditions. As long as the wing is not too small you can still land safely in the event of an engine out. Wing size/type is decided by weight of pilot and experience. Some pilots may wish to run an even smaller wing as they have experience and feel confident in their ability.
The 2 seat aircraft will only fly as smooth and stable as the solo machine if it has pilot and passenger on board, the reason for this is the 2 seat aircraft is required to carry double the weight not just a difference of 50-60 kilos but from 70-110 kilos approx which requires a much larger wing. When you fly a 2 seat aircraft solo the ride will be considerably slower and bumpier than when you carry a passenger. So keep in mind if you plan to do a lot of solo flying in a 2 seat the only way you can get a faster smoother stable flight is by adding weight instead of a passenger or by having a smaller chute that you can swap over as your wish.
The size of your wing determines the amount of weight you can lift and the ultimate ceiling height. Your wing will not lift as efficiently in the warmer weather. So if your wing is too small for the weight you are carrying you will experience a loss in lift that can only be rectified with more power. Loss in lift also means you will require a much longer runway and the higher the altitude of your take of point the longer the runway needs to be again. You may also find you have difficulty climbing and can’t get above a 1000 ft because air loses density with altitude. Your engine will be reving flat out yet you won’t gain altitude.
There are many ways to set up a Powered Parachute to suit individual requirements.
