Dan,

 

All the really smart guys have already given their opinions!  I have 75' wide by 6,000, but we're at 6,900 elevation.  We have nothing but open fields and antelope around our airport.

 

I hired a test pilot, Orin Riddell.  He did a couple high speed taxi tests and used about 2/3 of the runway.  He also carried about 90 kts on final so he used a good chunk of the runway on rollout.  I don't think Orin is available any more.  He's gone off to fly for the airlines.  But Bryan and I were very glad we hired a pro.

 

Before I hired Orin, my original plan (with me flying the first flight) was to take off from Meadow Lake and circle the field, but divert to COS with huge 150' wide runways for the first landing.  That way, if it was difficult to keep straight, due to brake problems, more likely pilot problems, I had some room to maneuver.  I was used to a steerable nosewheel, so getting accustomed to the extra rudder needed to steer took a couple takeoffs and landings.  I was glad to have the 75'.

 

It's not cheap to hire a test pilot, but if the guy is satisfied with your home field, he could do the first flight and relocate the aircraft to another field at the same time.  Be sure to consider where you would like to land and make sure the field is in your test area!

 

If the plane is fine, you'll have no trouble flying in and out of your home field.  The plane is a pussycat in the pattern.  One other thing, don't fly without the wheel pants.  The gear leg fairings will separate in flight, it's happened before.

 

Mike Easley

Colorado Springs