I've been looking for plans for a starter pattern plane and have seen a few recommended here. One was a Gitano 60 (plans from RCM). Anybody here have experience building/flying one of these.

Thanks!
flianbrian

Hi,
I don't know anything about the Gitano other than what I read in the RCM construction article, but the moments/planform look good. RCM also sells plans for the LOADED Dice, which is another possibility - and also easy to build. Flying Models has plans for the original .60 sized Desire which would be great with a 90 (2 or 4-stroke).
The Swallow ARF flies well and is a great value for the price. MK makes several .90 sized pattern kits including 2 new ones: SUper VR-90 and the Sky Star 90. Both are available via overseas purchase, but will cost you about $300 delivered here in the USA.
Good luck!!

Yup, the Loaded Dice was mentioned in the same post as the Gitano, if I remember correctly. Good thing is, the foam wings/stabs for these can be had from Dynamic Balsa. I have a good .61 I'd like to use at the moment, but may certainly want to go bigger at a later date, and I'd rather build from plans (would consider a kit) than go for an ARF. (Yes I've looked at the Bridi designs too).

What's the Desire look like? Know of any online photos of it?

Not my airplane.

Hey FlianBrian,
If you like the looks of the Desire I have a set of cores and the fiberglass top deck for .60 version. The plane was originally designed for the YS .61LS, but if you have a Hanno or a YS .61 AR even better. The Desire flies great and does fantastic rolling maneuvers - check out all that side area. Also, it is very visible. The fuselage area is similar to the new FAI designs which have lots of lateral area, too.
The Desire builds pretty quickly since the whole fuselage top is one piece of fiberglass.
-Will B.

I am building one right now, check out the progress at

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_18...tm.htm#1852084

sgg