Aircraft overview

The Zlin Aviation Shock is a two seat, high wing, tailwheel STOL aircraft built by Zlin Aviation in Italy as part of the company’s tube and fabric light aircraft family. It is distinct from the Savage Cub, Savage Bobber and later Norden, with its own wing, high lift devices and landing gear configuration aimed at very short takeoff and landing work. Introduced in the mid 2010s, the Shock is typically registered in microlight, ultralight, light sport or experimental categories depending on country and equipment. Its relevance for buyers is its specialized mission profile: low speed handling, rough strip access and simple maintainability rather than high cruise speed or IFR travel.

Performance & specifications

Most Zlin Aviation Shock examples use a Rotax four cylinder engine, commonly the 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS, with some aircraft fitted with higher output Rotax options depending on certification route and local rules. Published and real world cruise figures vary with propeller, tires and vortex generator fit, but buyers should expect a modest cruise, commonly around the 80 to 95 knot range rather than touring aircraft speeds. Range is also installation dependent, often planned around short regional legs with reserves rather than long cross country sectors. Maximum takeoff weight is set by the applicable category, with many European microlight examples tied to the 472.5 kg class, while other registrations may differ. Useful load must be checked aircraft by aircraft, especially on aircraft fitted with tundra tires, ballistic parachutes or extensive avionics.

Cabin & avionics

The Shock has a side by side two seat cabin with doors suited to visibility and low speed operations. The structure is conventional for the class, with welded steel tube fuselage construction, fabric covering and a high wing layout. Cabin width, baggage allowance and heating or ventilation equipment should be reviewed directly on the aircraft, as specifications can vary by build standard. Avionics are typically VFR focused. Used examples may have basic analog engine and flight instruments, compact EFIS displays from makers such as Dynon or Kanardia, VHF radio, transponder and GPS. Integrated suites such as Garmin Perspective or G1000 are not typical for this aircraft category.

Buying & value

When comparing used Zlin Aviation Shock aircraft, focus on empty weight, documented weight and balance, engine hours, propeller type, landing gear condition and any history of hard landings. Inspect fabric condition, wing leading edges, tailwheel assembly, brake system and attachment points carefully, as STOL aircraft may have seen rough field use. Common value factors include Rotax engine model, tire size, ballistic parachute installation, EFIS fit, radio and transponder compliance, and whether the aircraft is factory built or amateur built under local rules. In the used market, the Shock sits as a specialized STOL choice for buyers prioritizing low speed capability and simple operation over speed, payload or all weather equipment.