2 or 3 wheels, that is the question

[Hazzard]

I have been doing a little work trying to establish which configuration to go for, and man is it a minefield. The question is: What is better, safer, more appropriate to the “bush pilot” environment, Tricyle configuration or tail wheel.
The info I have so far is as follows:
· A tricycle arrangement is the “new technology” position and is easier to control in landing. “Tail wheels went out in the last war”
· The tail wheel configuration is quite controllable and is easy to learn, just concentrate. The type of flying that most South African pilots get to do from time to time requires planes to land in difficult terrain, soft sand etc. This is the place for tail wheels and not tricyle gear.
· Stol is more effective with nose wheel configuration that tail wheel.

So, what is the decision of the panel? Come on you old campaigners, give me the wisdom of your experience. At the end of the day, I know that the tail wheel is the emotional decision, but is it so BAD?

[RV4ker (RIP)]

Think it depends on application and pilot. Some of the nose wheelers have some inpressive numbers (CH701, Savannah, Yuma etc). As long as attachment point(s) are good you should be ok but if you hit a rock with a nose wheel chances are you gonna be in difficulty.

PS
A tail wheeler without a tail wheel could still possibly be flown out of a sticky situation. Have yet to see a tricycle U/C aerie do that.

PPS
Just looks better with little wheel at back

PPPS
Which aerie you looking at.

PPPPS
Maybe speak to Boet L in loerriesfontien. He has built more Bush Baby's than most and is now a tricycle man rather than original tailwheel.

[Duck Rogers]

Think it depends on application and pilot....

Amen. In my case, as you get older, the goens get smaller I want to enjoy myself...not frustrate myself, so I opt for front wheel drive :D :D

Duck Rogers

[Hazzard]

I have taken the agency for the Savage and will be bringing the first plane out to South Africa in about 5 to 6 months. Have a look at the website at www.aerosavage.com. This is definitely a plane for those with a touch of nostalgia as it is virtually size for size of the Super Cub, (the J3 I believe). Anyway, the reason I opened the debate is because mates of mine are saying that I am crazy and should rather go with the “today design”. My feeling is that I acknowledge that I will have to spend more time in the circuit to get the landings “waxed” but after that I will be able to enjoy what the plane has to offer.
POINT: I am 6’2” and weigh in at over 135kg, s When I went to see the plane, (there is one in Rustenburg) I was amazed by the space and ease of access and egress. South African males have a tendency to be fairly large, and this little unit has space to spare, (even for me), yet offers all the performance figures of some of the “new tech” STOL planes being offered locally. It is substantially cheaper and offers the home builder the option to go even cheaper.
Sorry guys, this is starting to sound like an advert, (which does not belong in this forum). I would however like to get some commentary from you guys on what you guys think though.
P/S. Keep an eye out for the latest MISASA magazine. I believe you will see some photos of it in there. Of course. For those of you who are not members, shame, you will have to borrow from a mate.
Cheers,

[RV4ker (RIP)]

Brad B had a yellow one for sale some time ago. (Think it is one now based FARG). Lovely little plane, but IMHO it was on expensive side? What dows pricing look like.

[Griffin]

It looks very interesting but there is not a lot of information on the site. Do you have any details of the kit, build time, material used, motor options, cost?

[Hazzard]

It is interesting, but I am reluctant to go any further without comment by the forum administrators. Don't want to fall foul of the law and advertise here. I do not have all the information on the build time, (I think 250hrs) or financial side at present but expect to have all by Friday.

[RV4ker (RIP)]

Post it here. More details da betta.
http://microlighters.co.za/viewforum.php?f=14

[Morph]

It is interesting, but I am reluctant to go any further without comment by the forum administrators. Don't want to fall foul of the law and advertise here. I do not have all the information on the build time, (I think 250hrs) or financial side at present but expect to have all by Friday.

You can post this sort of stuff under the Manufacturers and Agents Information Forum on this site.

[Smiley]

Just looks better with little wheel at back

My feelings too! Looks like a aerobatic bush plane!! :D :D