I have a very soft spot for the Doodlebug (and Target), being the second person to fly one after its designer Ben Ashman, and flew one for years.
I worked for Flylight and built the first 64 Doodlebugs and I acquired this FLHG combo in a fit of nostalgia, as I’d always wanted the electric start version. Having recently got into microlighting, thought that this would be ideal adjunct. Sadly age has wearied me and the years have condemned and the sprinter of the past has to accept his limitations, hopefully wheels that I used then will remain a little smaller than those that I might need to be pushed on in the future!
This is the ultimate combination for foot launched hang gliding. The Target was always the go to wing, being easy to launch and handle, and the Doodlebug was designed with the Target in mind. It launches easily and climbs beautifully, with engine off thermalling, air starts and leisurely cruising easy pleasures.
The wing is in very good condition, with only a small professional repair 5” x 11” (that’s what the limit lines are for guys!) I have checked it out very carefully and made sure I would be happy to fly it. It comes with pneumatic wheels that are essential for FLHG and two spare uprights.
The ‘bug is in superb condition and looks almost new, indeed the prop looks like it’s never been spun. It has a brand new battery, prop brake (essential for soaring) spare Bendix drive for the starter, charger for the battery, fuel filter, plug, even a parachute deployment bag if you have a ‘cute that will fit it.
I have checked everything out thoroughly and it’s an A1 starter (see video link).
Priced to sell, the whole deal is less than some foot launch harnesses are going for; with the most popular wing for FLHPG introduced in 1995 still in production as the Fox 16.
A classic set up for £2,200; less than some harnesses up to £4000 without a wing!
Video of runup: