1100R Mini-Max

1100R Mini-Max

The One. The Only. The Original!

The ultralight that started a revolution! Introduced in 1985, the MiniMax was the epitome of Wayne Ison's design philosophy; an inexpensive, simple to build ultralight aircraft that's a joy to fly and has outstanding performance. This evolved into the Max-103 and the 1100R, as shown here. With thousands of Mini-Max’s built all over the world, pilots seem to agree with Wayne's vision.

Although some people might not appreciate the boxy fuselage of the 1100R, others like it's "functional" look. Because of this simplicity, the 1100R is our quickest building standard kit, and the least expensive.

The basic 1100R can be built very light, with a 28HP single-cylinder engine, and qualify as a Part 103 ultralight. Or you can install a bigger engine (up to 40 hp) and other options, like wheel brakes, molded wingtips, curved turtledeck, streamlined cowling, etc., and register it as an Experimental Amateur-Built (E-AB) aircraft. If you're on a tight budget and/or don't have your Sport or Private Pilot's License yet, you can build the basic 1100R ultralight, then as time and money permits, upgrade all the way up to a 1500R or 1600R Sport. They all share the same basic fuselage, wings and empennage!

Model airplane on grass with yellow wings and propeller
    • Our Least expensive kit

    • Quickest building "Standard" kit

    • Mid wing

    • Open cockpit

    • Truss landing gear standard

    • Easily removable wings

    • One 6 gallon wing tank (optional 2nd wing tank)

    • Designed for 28 HP engine (Ultralight) or 40HP 2-cylinder (E-AB)

    • Can be upgraded at any time to a 1500R or 1600R Sport

    • Outstanding short field performance

  • Build time 250-300 hours
    Engine  28-40 HP
    Fuel Capacity 6 Gallons (12 gallons with optional 2nd wing tank)
    Flight controls. 3-Axis
    Wingspan 25'
    Wing area 112.5 sq. ft.
    Length 16'
    Height 5'
    Empty weight 230-267 lbs.
    Gross weight 560 lbs.
    Design load factors +4.4 -1.8 G

  • Top Speed 70 mph
    Cruise Speed 65 mph
    Stall Speed 28-31 mph
    Vne 100 mph
    Climb Rate 1000 fpm
    Take-off Roll < 100 ft
    Landing Roll 210 ft

Printed Plan Sets for Mini-Max Aircraft
from $224.99

Take the next step in your build with our professionally printed, model-specific plan sets. Designed exclusively for Mini-Max aircraft, these detailed plan sets are tailored to the model you select from the dropdown menu above.

Each printed plan set includes:

  • Blueprint Drawings – Precision prints for accurate construction.

  • Assembly Instructions – Step-by-step guides to walk you through each phase of the build.

  • Material Lists – Comprehensive lists to ensure you have exactly what you need.

  • Hardware Specifications – Clearly outlined to match Mini-Max standards.

  • Model-Specific Notes & Updates – Includes any design revisions or builder tips relevant to your chosen model.

All sets are printed on high-quality, durable paper for shop use and long-term reference. Whether you're starting your first build or tackling a new model, these plan sets are an essential resource for a successful project.

Select your desired Mini-Max model from the dropdown to get started.

Mini-MAX 1100R - Aircraft Mini-Kit
from $789.99

1100R Mini-Max - The Classic Mid-Wing Flyer

The 1100R Mini-Max is the original model that launched the Mini-Max movement—lightweight, straightforward, and incredibly fun to fly. Designed for economy and simplicity, this wood-and-fabric mid-wing aircraft is perfect for builders who want an efficient and rewarding build with great flight characteristics.

Modular Mini-Kits - Build at Your Own Pace

This kit is divided into modular Mini-Kits so you can build it step-by-step, affordably and on your own schedule. Each kit includes the raw materials, fasteners, and structural elements needed for that section. Pre-Fabbed Parts will be available separately to reduce build time and improve precision.

Why Builders Love the 1100R

  • Classic Simplicity - The original Mini-Max formula that still works

  • Efficient Design - Low empty weight and great fuel economy

  • Wood-and-Fabric Build - Easy to work with, even for first-time builders

  • Modular Format - Flexible build path, buy only what you need

  • Backed by a Legacy - Supported by decades of proven performance

What’s Included - Mini-Kit Breakdown

  • Wing Rib Kit - Materials and templates to build all wing ribs

  • Wing Assembly Kit - Spars, hardware, and bracing components

  • Fuselage Kit - Structural wood, adhesives, and fasteners

  • Landing Gear Kit - Gear legs, tailwheel components, mounting hardware

  • Empennage Kit - Materials for rudder, stabilizer, elevator, and fin

  • Metal & Hardware Kit - Control cables, brackets, pulleys, and installation hardware

Additional Required Components:

Optional Add-On:

  • Pre-Fabbed Parts - Coming soon for select sections

Aircraft Specifications

  • Configuration: Mid-wing, single-seat, open cockpit

  • Empty Weight: ~300 lbs (depending on engine and options)

  • Wingspan: ~26 ft

  • Cruise Speed: ~55–60 mph

  • Stall Speed: ~26 mph

  • Recommended Engine: 28–40 hp (Rotax, Hirth, or equivalent)

  • Build Time: ~275–325 hours

  • Certification: Experimental Amateur-Built (EAB)

Kit Pricing Philosophy
Each Mini-Kit is priced based on the ideal retail value of its components, assuming zero waste.

We then discount the price by 10% to give you up-front savings and eliminate unnecessary surplus.

If you decide to purchase the full kit upfront, we extend a full 20% discount—a better value for builders who are ready to go all in.

Mini-MAX 1100R - Full Aircraft Kit
from $10,999.99

1100R Mini-Max - The Classic Mid-Wing Trainer

The 1100R Mini-Max is where our legacy began—a classic, wood-and-fabric mid-wing aircraft designed to deliver rewarding performance with straightforward construction. Light, economical, and fun to fly, the 1100R is ideal for pilots who want real airplane handling without breaking the bank or the build schedule.

With its simple structure and reliable flight characteristics, the 1100R is a great step into the world of homebuilt aviation.

Full Aircraft Kit - Everything in One Place

The 1100R complete kit includes all the major components you need to build a flyable aircraft. From spars to tail feathers, we’ve bundled the materials, hardware, and instructions into one unified package. No juggling multiple orders or wondering what’s missing—just open the boxes and get building.

Why Builders Love the 1100R

Affordable Entry Point - Low-cost materials and simple systems
Traditional Craftsmanship - Wood-and-fabric construction you can master
Responsive Handling - Fly like a real airplane, because it is one
Full Kit Convenience - All major components delivered together
Mini-Max Provenance - A design with 30+ years of heritage

What’s Included - Complete Kit Contents

  • Wing Rib Materials - Templates, wood stock, and fasteners

  • Wing Assembly Kit - Spars, fittings, and hardware

  • Fuselage Kit - Pre-cut structural wood, adhesives, and fasteners

  • Landing Gear Kit - Tailwheel, brackets, main gear legs, and mounts

  • Empennage Kit - Elevator, stabilizer, rudder, and fin materials

  • Hardware & Metal Kit - Pulleys, cables, brackets, and control components

  • Covering Supplies - Complete airframe fabric and application tools

  • Epoxy Kit - High-quality aircraft bonding resins

  • Plans Package - Full-size prints and complete builder manual

Optional:
🔧 Pre-Fabbed Parts - Select assemblies to simplify and accelerate your build (available soon)

👤 Who It’s For

The 1100R is a great fit for first-time homebuilders, traditionalists, and pilots seeking an easy-to-fly aircraft with classic charm. It’s forgiving, efficient, and simple—perfect for building skills and logging fun.

💵 How We Price the Full Kit

We believe in straightforward, builder-first pricing:

  • Listed kit price includes all major materials required for construction

  • We’ve already applied a 20% discount off ideal retail pricing

  • You get full value without material waste or unnecessary add-ons

Mini-MAX 1103R Mini-Max Ultralight - Full Aircraft Kit
from $10,899.99

1103R Mini-Max Ultralight - Real Flying, Ultralight Simplicity

The 1103R Mini-Max Ultralight brings the beloved Mini-Max design into full FAR 103 compliance, giving you the freedom to fly without a license or registration. This mid-wing aircraft balances simplicity, strength, and style with an ultralight-legal empty weight and efficient performance.

If you want classic looks, responsive handling, and legal ultralight status in one package—the 1103R is your answer.

Full Aircraft Kit - Lightweight, Complete, and Ready to Build

This complete kit includes everything you need to construct your 1103R from the ground up. Designed with the homebuilder in mind, the package includes all structural wood, hardware, coverings, and plans—bundled for clarity and convenience.

Why Builders Love the 1103R

FAR 103 Compliant - Under 254 lb empty weight, no license required
Efficient Design - Sleek, responsive, and great on fuel
Classic Mini-Max Feel - Wood-and-fabric construction with lineage
Full Kit Simplicity - All essential components in one box
Great First Ultralight - Forgiving flight, fun performance

What’s Included - Complete Kit Contents

  • Wing Rib Kit - Templates and wood to hand-build all wing ribs

  • Wing Assembly Kit - Spars, hardware, and fittings

  • Fuselage Kit - Structural wood, adhesives, and fasteners

  • Landing Gear Kit - Tailwheel, gear legs, mounting brackets

  • Empennage Kit - Materials for the elevator, rudder, stabilizer, and fin

  • Metal & Hardware Kit - Control system cables, pulleys, brackets, fasteners

  • Fabric Covering Kit - Full airframe fabric and supplies

  • Epoxy Kit - Aircraft-grade bonding resin

  • Plans Package - Full-size prints and detailed build instructions

Optional:
🔧 Pre-Fabbed Parts - Coming soon to make building faster and easier

👤 Who It’s For

The 1103R is ideal for ultralight pilots, first-time builders, and anyone looking for an easy, budget-friendly way into the air. Its light weight and friendly handling make it especially appealing for rural flyers, weekend warriors, or anyone seeking simplicity and freedom.

💵 How We Price the Full Kit

Our pricing model is built on clarity and value:

  • All full kits are priced using ideal retail component values

  • A 20% discount is already built into the listed kit price

  • No excess materials means real-world savings and zero waste