The Piper J-3 Cub is one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history. With its distinctive yellow color and simple, yet effective design, the J-3 Cub has earned a special place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and pilots worldwide.

Its success made the name “Cub” a generic term for light airplanes

Known for its versatility, reliability, and ease of operation, the Piper J-3 Cub remains a favorite for training, recreational flying, and even light utility work. This article delves into the rich history, specifications, and performance of the Piper J-3 Cub, along with its various options and configurations.

History of the Piper J-3 Cub

Introduced in 1938 by Piper Aircraft, the J-3 Cub quickly became a symbol of American aviation. Designed by Clarence Gilbert Taylor, the J-3 Cub was intended to be an affordable and easy-to-fly aircraft, making it accessible to a broad audience.

During World War II, the J-3 Cub was used extensively for training military pilots, reconnaissance, and liaison duties, earning the nickname “Grasshopper” due to its agility and ability to operate from unimproved fields.

Specifications of the Piper J-3 Cub

The Piper J-3 Cub is a high-wing, single-engine monoplane with a simple and straightforward design. Here are the key specifications of the J-3 Cub:

Specification	Value
Crew	1 (pilot)
Capacity	1 passenger
Length	22 ft 5 in (6.83 m)
Wingspan	35 ft 3 in (10.74 m)
Height	6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
Wing Area	178 sq ft (16.5 m²)
Empty Weight	740 lb (335 kg)
Gross Weight	1,220 lb (550 kg)
Fuel Capacity	12 US gal (45 L)
Powerplant	1 × Continental A-65-8 engine
Engine Power	65 hp (48 kW)
Propeller	Fixed-pitch, 2-blade

If you are interested you should read about the Boeing Model 1

Performance of the Piper J-3 Cub

The Piper J-3 Cub is known for its reliable performance and ease of handling. Here are the performance parameters of the J-3 Cub:

Performance Metric	Value
Maximum Speed	87 mph (140 km/h, 76 kn)
Cruise Speed	75 mph (121 km/h, 65 kn)
Stall Speed	38 mph (61 km/h, 33 kn)
Range	220 miles (350 km, 190 nmi)
Service Ceiling	11,500 ft (3,500 m)
Rate of Climb	450 ft/min (2.3 m/s)

Options and Configurations

The Piper J-3 Cub has seen numerous variations and adaptations over the years, catering to different needs and preferences. Some notable options and configurations include:

Engine Upgrades

While the original J-3 Cub was equipped with a 65 hp Continental A-65-8 engine, many J-3 Cubs have been upgraded with more powerful engines for better performance. Popular engine upgrades include the 85 hp Continental C-85 and the 90 hp Continental C-90, which provide improved climb rates and cruise speeds.

Piper J-3 Cub Price

you can easily find a Piper J-3 in a good condition somewhere between $30.000 up to $50.000 (It’s in good shape and works perfectly)

Why the Piper J-3 Cub Remains Popular

The enduring popularity of the Piper J-3 Cub can be attributed to several factors:

Simplicity and Ease of Operation

The J-3 Cub’s straightforward design and forgiving flight characteristics make it an excellent trainer aircraft. Its simplicity also translates to low maintenance costs and ease of repair, which appeals to both private owners and flight schools.

Affordability

Compared to many modern aircraft, the J-3 Cub is relatively affordable, both in terms of purchase price and operating costs. This affordability makes it accessible to a broader audience, including hobbyists and aspiring pilots.