Background
The pilot had recently purchased the kit airplane and spent part of the day performing taxi tests to become familiar with the aircraft. Later that day, the pilot and a passenger decided to fly the airplane.
Initial Flight
During the initial takeoff, the pilot noticed a slight binding sensation in the control stick but attributed it to a need for lubrication and continued the flight. After approximately one hour of maneuvering, the pilot conducted several practice approaches.
Control Issue
On the third approach, the pilot realized that he was unable to move the control stick forward. He found that he could control the airplane's altitude using engine power and the trim system. The pilot then decided to fly to a larger airport to perform an emergency landing.
Investigation of Binding
During the flight to the larger airport, the pilot asked the passenger to inspect the control stick's counterweight, which was located near the airplane's header tank. The passenger reported that the counterweight was binding on the fuel tank.
Emergency Landing
The pilot conducted a forced landing. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced twice before impacting the propeller and separating the left canard and landing gear. The pilot later noted that the pivot bolt holding the counterweight was tight, but the counterweight had a small amount of movement, which allowed it to bind with the header tank.