In article , Peter
R. wrote:

I was curious about the flying characteristics of the aircraft from those
of you with experience in Bonanzas. Currently I have about 550 hours and
an instrument rating, all in a C172. Obviously this jump would require
several hours of instruction time to become proficient in its new-to-me
systems, such as landing gear, constant speed prop, turbo, etc.

Join the American Bonanza Society and take their classes

Does the V-tail handle much differently (besides increased speed) than a
traditional tail configuration? How about loading? Easy to overload aft
of CG? I expect it to be a big jump, but several, including the flight
school manager, believe that I am ready. I would be lying if I didn't
admit to some anxiety about leaving the comfort of my C172.

They have a distinctive "wiggle" that some people find annoying. But,
as a friend of mine says, "If you don't like the way my airplane flies,
you don't have to ride in it."

CG MOVES AFT WITH FUEL BURN!!! Pay very close attention to your
loading. ALWAYS calculate takeoff and LANDING CGs!!!

The Bonanza is a slippery (read "clean") airframe. It will pick up
speed quickly if you are not paying attention, possibly getting you
high into the yellow or even the red arcs before you notice it.

A walk around will impress you with how well they are built, but that
is no excuse for a lax attitude.

I am currently reading AOPA's partnership guidelines to understand the
logistical and legal aspects of partnerships, so at this point I am more
interested in other's experiences with the aircraft itself.

Be sure to download the Aviation Safety Foundation's Bonanza report
from the AOPA website. Lots of good information in it.

Bonanza's are great airplanes to fly. But you really have to respect
them. Have fun!