JollyPopper

My Feedback: (6)

I have a question of no particular importance. I have simply been wondering for some time why the top wing on so many bipes is swept. I'm guessing it isn't for the same reason that fighter jets since the F86 have done it. I'm also fairly sure the people who designed and built those bipes didn't go to all that trouble for no good reason. What is the reason?

RCVFR

My Feedback: (7)

Helps to balance a short nose design by moving the center of lift aft.

Dsegal

It also improves visibility for the pilot.

Montague

Also does nice things to over all stall handing, though that's probably accidental.

But no, it has nothing to do with why an F-86 has swept wings. That only applies when you approach the speed of sound, which the F-86 does, but the bipes, not so much.

Bax

My Feedback: (11)

The swept top wing of a bipe also makes it easier to get in and out of the front cockpit (if there are two)...or just makes it easier to get in and out of the (one) cockpit.

JollyPopper

My Feedback: (6)

All reasonable explanations. Whatever, the bipe, any bipe, with a swept top wing, is more pleasing to the eye than the same plane would be with a straight wing. IMO

beepee

Jolly,

There is absolutely no explanation for your point, but I absolutely agree with you.

Bedford

RCVFR

My Feedback: (7)

There's that "eye of the beholder" thing, again!

JollyPopper

My Feedback: (6)

Jim Dines:

Yeah, it is the "eye of the beholder" thing, isn't it? I suppose there are folks out there who think the straight top wing is more appealing. I wonder what the percentage would be.

Flypaper 2

Swept wings also act like dihedral. I just forget what the ratio is, dihedral angle to swept angle.

beepee

Flypaper 2,

I don't think the sweep in the top wing of a bipe is enough to gain the dihedral affect. It is only enough for pilot visibility, ingress/egress, etc.

Bedford

mrbigg

My Feedback: (21)

What about the dual swepted wings of an Ultimate? Do they act like dihedral?