RE: RE: RE: RE: more progress
Hi AJC,
I second CombatPig on the hand launch. My RV-7 is about the same size as your plane with a 5" wide fuselage that has tapered to a little over 4" behind the wing where I hold it for launch. With the Speed 400 motor it is just a lazy climb out. My RV weighs in at 22 ounces with a 223 sq.in. wing using a Selig S8036 airfoil.
After I finish my Sky Terrier contest entry I am going to build up a light weight version of the RV-7 for a Norvel AME .061. I will be making up the fuselage molds for the Sky Terrier this week and will probably layup a new carbon fiber fuselage for the RV at the same time.
BUT, your comfort level is the determining factor. That is too beautiful an airplane to take chances with.