TYPE: Four-seat kitbuilt.

PROGRAMME: Prototype RB-1 (N6890R) first flew with Lycoming O-360 engine in December 1993, but not promoted until 1995; plans marketed by designer, Robert Barrows; second prototype (N33RB) flew 27 October 1999 with Lycoming O-540 engine and large cargo doors; by mid-2003, eight Bearhawks were flying (including two prototypes with total of 1,000 hours). First plans-built aircraft (N156RM) flown by Robert Marek on 4 May 2001; others completed with Ford V-6 and Rover V-8 motorcar engines. Two-seat Bearhawk 2 (N289R) prototype first flown by Mr Barrows in mid-2003, but decision on commercial launch had not then been taken.
Marketing of AviPro kits began in 2003, with first airframe displayed at AirVenture, Oshkosh, from 29 July 2003.

CUSTOMERS: 21 kits delivered by November 2003; in addition 545 sets of plans had been sold by February 2003 with 200 under construction.

COSTS: Kit US$27,700, excluding engine, propeller and instrument (2003).

DESIGN FEATURES: Four-seat utility design capable of carrying full load of occupants and fuel; cabin size exceeds Cessna 172. High, strut-braced wing and mutually braced empennage. Aerofoil section NACA 4412.

FLYING CONTROLS: Conventional and manual. Horn-balanced rudder and elevators. Large flaps. Flight-adjustable tabs in both elevators.

STRUCTURE: Welded steel tube fuselage with fabric covering. All aluminium wing with fabric-covered control surfaces attached to rear spar. Metal engine cowling from Pitts Special.

LANDING GEAR: Tricycle type; fixed. Floats optional. Mainwheels 7.00-6. Steerable tailwheel, size 2.80/2.50-4. Rubber-in-compression suspension.

POWER PLANT: Recommended piston engines include 119 kW (160 hp) Textron Lycoming O-320; 134 kW (180 hp) O-360; 194 kW (260 hp) O-540; and Teledyne Continental O-470 of 179 kW (240 hp). Three-blade propeller, typically Hartzell F7693F.
Normal fuel capacity 208 litres (55.0 US gallons; 45.8 Imp gallons). Optional capacity 257 litres (68.0 US gallons; 56.6 Imp gallons).

ACCOMMODATION: Four persons in two side-by-side pairs, with baggage area to rear. Rear seat removable. Door each side, front, split horizontally; front- and rear-hinged double doors, starboard, provide access to rear seats and baggage.