I've looked into ultralights plenty. 255lbs powered is hard to do anything really aero, mostly just hang glider style or parachute style. I suppose someone could do a balsa and monocote thing, but it comes up against a 55mph limit and 25mph stall speed then. Lots of room for aerodynamic improvement though.
this is pretty much at the limits of what you can do within the constraints
http://www.interplaneaircraft.com/zjpicsvideos.htm
here is a page
All About Ultralights - FAQs on getting started flying an ultralight aircraft.
1. What is an Ultralight Aircraft?
Ultralights are defined and operate under simple guidelines specified in FAR Part 103. A summary of the rule is provided here:
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Single occupant only for recreation or sport purposes with 5 gallons maximum fuel.
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Unpowered free flight empty weight under 155 pounds or powered weighs under 254 excluding floats or safety devices.
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55 knots maximum calibrated airspeed at full power in level flight, power-off maximum stall speed 24 knots calibrated.
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Can be inspected by FAA to make sure it meets criteria as an ultralight.
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Vehicle not required to meet any airworthiness certification standards
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Pilot not required to meet any aeronautical knowledge, age, or experience requirements to operate or to have airman or medical certificates.
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Not required to be registered or to bear markings of any type.
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No operation is allowed that creates a hazard to other persons or property.
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Only operate between sunrise and sunset unless equipped with a suitable anti collision light extending flight time to twilight periods 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset.
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Yield the right-of-way to all aircraft and not create a collision hazard with any aircraft.
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Do not operate an over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open air assembly of persons.
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All operations are conducted in uncontrolled airspace unless prior authorization from the ATC facility to operate in within Class A, Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace, or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport.
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Must comply with flight restrictions in the proximity of certain areas designated by Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and Temporary Flight Restrictions (TRF).
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No person may operate an ultralight vehicle except by visual reference with the surface.
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Visibility and cloud clearances similar to general aviation airspace. (see
ASA: Home Page for the specific FAR 103)