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Old 17th February 2004 | 20:59
  #20 (permalink)  
FlyingForFun

Why do it if it's not fun?
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Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 4,782
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From: Bournemouth
The monowheels really do take all of the worst attributes of the taildragger and combine them into one aircraft. Having such a narrow wheelbase means that anything other than absoltuely straight on landing will result in loss of control (ask me how I know). Combine this with the lack of prop clearance, and the outriggers preventing you from landing with a wing low, and yes, they are a handful. There is also no suspension to talk of, so they are particularly uncomfortable on bumpy ground (the only taildragger I've found which I'm happier to land on a hard runway than on a bumpy grass runway).

On the flip side, though, they are the only retractible Europa, and if you're looking for a touring aircraft that will make a difference to both the cruise speed and the fuel consumption. And the best bit is that, on the very rare occassions when you pull of a greaser, it's extremely satisfying!

Basically, they are nothing to be afraid of - so long as you are aware of their deficiencies, and set yourself appropriate limits.

FFF
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