ORIGINAL: mshafer
Just my opinion once more but pre 1976 designs (as per SPA rules) were designed around 10cc engines and retracts. I understand the rationale of cheaper (no retracts nor "hot" 10 cc setups) but crippling a good design with fixed gear and then compensating by allowing more horsepower four strokes just seems.... wrong---> Advantage Daddy Rabbit
Mike Shafer
Retracts were only common after 1972 or 73. There are no planes I am aware of that was designed for pipes only till late 76 or early 77. I know of no design that will not fly well with the gear down. Especially with conventional gear and pants. Though I suspect a tail dragger will occasionally deduct some landing points with some of the judges. A slightly bounced three point landing would look almost perfect with a tricycle gear.