1974 Robin HR200/100 Club - Wilco Aviation

Description

Wilco Aviation is delighted to present this Robin HR200/100 Club, registration G-BETD. Located at our facility at Henstridge Airfield in the South West of England, this aircraft is available for viewing by appointment.

Designed and built by Avions Robin at Darois Airfield near Dijon, France, the HR200/100 Club reflects the high standards of a company that has captured nearly half of the French light aircraft market. The HR200 is a compact two-seat trainer with a full metal airframe stressed to +6G and -3G, built to handle the rigours of everyday flight training with confidence.

Powered by a 100 hp Lycoming O-235-H2C engine, this version delivers unexpectedly strong performance. Solo, it can achieve a 1,000 fpm climb, and even with a passenger, it comfortably maintains a 750 fpm rate. Cruise speeds reach 124 mph at 75% power with a range of 650 statute miles from a full 32-gallon fuel tank.

The cockpit is impressively roomy in the Club version. Access is easy via a large forward-sliding canopy, and once inside, visibility is simply unparalleled. The canopy and window design drop the side glazing to elbow level, offering unmatched views in all directions. Even with a deep three-tier instrument panel, there’s ample legroom and exceptional forward visibility, further enhanced by the aircraft’s natural nose-low attitude in flight.

Handling is a highlight of the HR200. The aircraft is nimble without being twitchy, responding instantly to small control inputs while remaining stable and confidence-inspiring—attributes that make it ideal for both ab-initio training and touring. It’s a pleasure to fly in formation, a rare trait for a light aircraft of this power class, thanks to its precise and well-balanced ailerons.

On the ground, nosewheel steering is effective and the aircraft handles well on grass with excellent braking and suspension characteristics. In the air, stall behaviour is predictable and benign, with clean stall speeds at 50 knots IAS and 45 knots with flaps. The spin entry is possible but transitions into a spiral dive rather than a fully developed spin due to limited elevator authority.

Approach and landing are straightforward. Flaps can be deployed at up to 98 knots, and the aircraft flies a stable pattern at 80 knots with 2,000 rpm. The final flare is easily managed, with good elevator authority to hold off the nosewheel.

Beyond its excellent handling and ergonomic layout, the HR200’s construction speaks to long-term value. Maintenance is simple and costs are kept low, making it a strong choice for flight schools and private owners alike. Instructors will appreciate the dual throttle controls, clearly arranged engine instrumentation, and easily accessed systems on a compact centre console between the seats.

The Club configuration enhances the standard HR200 with upgraded features including wheel spats, dual-tone paint, heated pitot, comprehensive lighting, anticollision beacon, and King or Narco nav/com units. Anticorrosion treatment is standard on all Robin aircraft.

Originally priced at 122,000 French francs, the HR200/100 Club was designed as an affordable yet capable trainer. Despite exchange rate fluctuations that have placed it among more expensive trainers, few offer its combination of robust performance, comfort, and European build quality.

Whether for training, touring, or simply enjoying pure stick-and-rudder flying, G-BETD represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most respected trainers in its class.