need for speed, The

Model Airplane News, Mar 2004 by Cleghorn, Debra

For heart-pounding excitement, not much comes close to watching 8-foot-span, gas-guzzling behemoths tearing around pylons so fast that they blur as they pass by. RC'ers have been racing these giant models of full-size Reno Air Race warbirds since 1991, and since then, these models have evolved into seven classes of aircraft and a three-race series in which pilots accumulate points to determine an overall annual champion. This year, the adrenaline-pumping action culminated in the Blue Water River Run at Avi Sequilla Airport in Parker, AZ, where intrepid West Coast associate editor John Reid got as close to the action as he dared to capture all the fun on film. Hosted by the Unlimited Scale Racing Association (USRA), the Blue Water River Run featured high-power planes competing at speeds of more than 220mph; how's that for satisfying the speed demon inside you? For race results and an inside look at giant-scale racing, check out John's article on page 36.

If park and backyard flyers are more your speed, you won't want to miss associate editor Rick Bell's "Backyard Flyer" column this month. You'll read how he hopped up and modified a GWS Slow Stick-a favorite easy flyer-and turned it into an all-out aerobatic machine. Starting on page 96, Rick details basic changes to the flying surfaces, controls and power system. You'll be amazed by this simple, high-performance model!

In "Thinking Big," senior tech editor Gerry Yarrish offers an inside look at some giant-scale "trainers" with a twist: turbine power! If you're intrigued by the power and speed of jet aircraft, there's no better place to start than a turbine trainer. Turn to page 126 to see how easy it is to be a jet jock.

IN THE WORKSHOP

Scale planes need scale wheels, and in this issue, Keith Sparks shares a method of making lightweight, sturdy spoked wheels out of PVC pipe and monofilament line. These easy-build wheels look great and can be built to any dimensions you need.

Looking for a building project? Check out John Tanzer's WW I Sopwith Camel-a ¼-scale biplane inspired by a full-size Camel at the Rhinebeck (NY) Aerodrome. Although this model has a very scale outline, it features simplified construction techniques. John has been designing model airplanes for nearly 30 years, and we're pleased to add his latest to our plans directory.

Safe landings!