Hi Rich,

>>>...Why does everyone claim you need a breeze to takeoff?...<<<

Most of us flying toy autogyros say we need "autorotational rpm" before takeoff. Like Phil says, you can generate autorotational rpm using some form of pre-rotation device. Or, you can utilize the oncoming breeze and a very slow forward taxi speed to facilitate the acceleration into full auto.

The big mistake most of us make is trying to "force a takeoff" by taxiing way too fast almost like a "starch wing" takeoff, erroneously thinking (in the case of a gyro with little or no negative blade pitch) that we can increase rotor rpm by "going faster". (How many smoking holes in the desert have I dug proving the foolishness of this thinking! <G>)

In the case of the toy autogyro--especially large ones, we must find patience to allow the mass of those blades to "fly" into full autorotational rpm. On all our designs--especially noticeable with the Kellett--if you'll hold half to full "down" elevator while you are patiently waiting for the breeze to spin you up, the tail will rise when autorotative lift is finally generated. This is the signal to the pilot that it is finally "OK" to smoothly advance the throttle. Cool!

Steve