The Kitfox Model 4-1200, currently marketed under the name of the Kitfox Classic 4, is the final evolution of the original Denney Aerocraft Kitfox design that began in 1984.  One of the most successful kits on the market today, the Classic 4 kit has been sold continuously since late 1991.  The Classic 4 has heavier lift struts and gear legs, as well as beefed up carry through tubes in the fuselage, to allow for a higher gross weight than the earlier Model 4 kits.  The height of the vertical stabilizer and rudder was increased by 10 inches, and the rudder depth was increased by 2 inches to allow for improved handling.  The Classic 4 is also available in a short wing Speedster configuration for those wishing more speed and a higher roll rate. 

In 1994, a light weight version of the Classic 4 was introduced with a Rotax 503 as the standard power plant.  This airplane, known as the Kitfox XL, qualified as an ultralight trainer, but did not gain market popularity.  In 2001, an upgraded version of the Kitfox XL was introduced as the Kitfox Lite Squared and met with instantaneous market success.  The Kitfox Classic 4 remains suitable for both the two-stroke and four-stroke Rotax 912 engine series.  Many other engines have been adapted to the Kitfox Classic 4. 

Not only is the Kitfox Model 4 (Classic 4, Speedster, Lite Squared) the final evolution of the original Denney Aerocraft concept in terms of structure and engineering, but it is the best flying of all the previous versions.  The vertical surfaces were increased significantly, resulting in excellent, positive, yaw stability.  The Speedster version of the Model 4 added aerodynamic enhancements to the empennage, including an electric trim tab.  Speedster modifications can be used on any Model 4 variant.  Handling is smooth and crisp.  While rudder coordination is needed, it is much closer to what most pilots encounter in today’s modern training airplanes. 

The higher gross weight and larger wing fuel tanks cause one to pay attention on landing rollout, but the much larger vertical tail surface gives you all the control power needed, and then some.  The available electric pitch trim allows the Model 4 (in all its variations) to be trimmed for hands off flight in almost all normally anticipated flight attitudes.  Many Model 4 aircraft were equipped with the 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, Rotax 912 that produces 80 HP.  Model 4 variants are now turning up with the 100 HP Rotax 912S, resulting in power loadings that are better than the original, light weight, Model 1.  Be prepared for an airplane that is ready to fly before you are.  In 2001, the Classic 4 was packaged as the Lite Squared and introduced into the ultra light community as a two place, ultra light trainer.  This packaging resulted in the Classic 4/Lite Squared being adapted to tri-gear in addition to the familiar tail wheel configuration.  The Light Squared has been discontinued, but the convertible Classic 4 lives on.  The Classic 4 can still accommodate two-place ultra light training and is ideal for operation by Sport Pilots