Originally Posted by
poteroo
RVs have pretty effective elevator command, and in a full flap landing, it is very easy to hold the nosewheel off the ground until a very low speed. While holding full back stick, the nosewheel sinks very slowly onto the surface. There really is no excuse for not landing an RV, ( A model), on its' mains and taxying it over any suspect surface with the nosewheel held clear: all it takes is to add a touch of power before elevator command is lost, and this holds the nosewheel clear of the surface.
Unfortunately, we are now around to a generation of RV owner/pilots who have been trained to fly the approach too fast, (might stall it!), and whack the aircraft onto the surface before it even approaches stalling, (get it on the ground and use your vg brakes!!). This theory just isn't good for safety. Whatever happened to 1.3 x Vso? With a VANS RV9A - Vso = 43 KIAS, so Vref = 56KIAS. Any competent driver should be able to manage 55-60KIAS on short final. Some of the other A models have a slightly higher Vso - more in the order of 48 KIAS. Thus, 48 x 1.3 = 63KIAS - most pilots use 65KIAS at MTOW.
It appears to me that there has been inadequate transition training happening: which really isn't compliant with the CASR 61.385 rule on general competency.
I understand that it's not just a noseleg issue with A models: there is an issue with the nosewheel locking and this creating the bending moment.
happy days,
Whilst the RV's do have effective elevators they won't help here on that type of surface. With spats and small wheels regardless of how much back stick you have upon touchdown it's the sudden drag or 'grab' on the mains that pitches an A/C fwd.
Your comments only apply on a relatively smooth surface as the sudden 'grab' of the mains is far less.
I believe those that build/buy 'A' models prefer the easier general handling on the ground, they pay a price for that though, apart from the design that kinda killed the aesthetics of the Vans design (personal opinion only) the obvious weakness of the nose gear is always ever present when landing.
There will be more flip overs, you can guarantee it!