How about the HP-18 (rather than KA-6CR)?

Thanks to all KA-6 pilots responding to my earlier question.
Wayne Paul has kindly sent links to HP websites, suggesting the HP-18 as an
affordable option for the economically-minded flyer. Compared to the wooden
KA-6, the HP-18 has a larger cockpit, is made of metal, structural foam,
composite & glass. All were built from plans. Features a 15m, V-tail,
retractable gear, flaps, water ballast; lay-down pilot position & tailwheel.
Any comments on HP-18's? I certainly haven't enough experience to hop in one
now, but would you recommend the HP-18 to a low-time pilot? (Plenty of room
for caveats). I particularly like one suggestion; practice steep full flaps
landings in a Cessna before first flying the HP-18.
Jim Hultman