On Wednesday, July 4, 2012 10:46:18 AM UTC-4, son_of_flubber wrote:
I disagree. The only problem that I see is the expectation that bystanders will step in to extricate the pilot without a lift. There is a possibility of injury to the person doing the lifting.

It would be great if someone came forward with a proven rudimentary lifting device for occasional use. I don't want to reinvent the wheel. A golf cart mounted crane is a bit elaborate for an occasional requirement.

I currently have a torn calf muscle, which results in intense pain when my knee is bent greater than 100 degrees. There is no problem in flight, but it's very difficult getting out of my tight LS8 cockpit (easy getting in - go figure).

I can do it without ground help, but if they're around all I ask is that they keep the left wing on the ground. I unfasten the harness and the parachute straps, then, using both arms, I raise my torso onto the left gunwale so I can roll out of the cockpit, dragging my right leg behind. Very undignified! Can't wait for the muscle to heal...

-John