hi,

I am looking for a second plane and I am really thinking to buy the cap from GP, but I first want an opinion wether it is any good for second plane. If you have any experience with it? I would like to know if it flies stable on low rates and does it 3D good with an .40 FX installed?

Thanks

barto,
Probably the worst plane you could pick as a second plane. I love this plane and own several from the 0.40 you are considering to a 40% Carden. Make this your 4th plane. It is not a stable plane even on low rates. A 40 FX is not enough engine to 3D this plane. you would need an OS 70 or YS 63 4/stroke or a good 60 or larger 2/stroke. (Stability and maneuverability do not go hand in hand. You give up one to get the other. This is a highly maneuverable plane).

Better choices for your second plane:
Sig Somethin Extra (really nice with low throws and allows you to progress to more advanced aerobatics as your skills improve). Other Sig planes including the "star" series of which the Mid*Star is a favorite of mine as a second plane. There are other planes in this category including the Morris Hobbies offerings however these might not be available easily in your location.

Many like the "stick" type of plane as a second plane. I like them too but see quicker learning curves with other planes.

Good luck,
EXCAP232

I disagree I went from a trainer to the gp cap and I loved it. It lands like a feather, of course it will snap with full rate elevatros but want aerobatic plane won't. Shes flys very good and after 6 years I still have her.

Hey Barto,
How is your flying with the plane you have now? Some guys adapt faster than others, I am one of the faster guys. In my own opinion, I fly a go-where-you-point-it type plane with a lot more ease than a let-the-wind-tell-you-where-you'll-be type plane that floats all over the place and can't handle wind. If you prop it right, say a 11x5 instead of a 10x6, it will do a good job of slowing her down. Mine floats like a trainer on landing, and is so stable, that on 3D rates, I can harrier her all over the place, like a RC car with wings. A good .45 and bigger is what is needed to fly good 3D, but for some practice, a .40 would work, especially if you already have one, then just move up to a bigger engine and buy a 5 dollar engine mount when your ready. If your confident in your solo flying, and can get help on your first few times out, I would recomend giving her a shot. By the way, The GP Cap 232 is a whole lot less building then her sister the GP Extra 300S.

While some do well with this type of plane as a second choice many leave the hobby after losing it a few flights on. It is possible to fly as your second plane however from a safety standpoint it is not advisable and against the rules at many club fields. Last year we had a couple of pilots try flying beyond their skill levels. Three planes were totaled. One hit a new building being erected at the end of the field (out of the flight line) and caused problems with the owner (who also owns our field). Two vehicles were damaged as well as our tractor shed being hit. Still not the best choice in my opinion from a learning standpoint or safety.

EXCAP232