I fly both IMAC and pattern, its an easy concept to see.


Cost......
4-5k for pattern
5-9k for IMAC

Motor....
600+ for pattern (YS160)
1500-1800 for DA or 3W 150 IMAC

So IMAC is slightly more expensive so why IMAC?

1. planes look like real planes (public can relate)
2. Planes are larger, and larger does fly slightly easier (notice I didn't say better)
3. Wow factor......more impressive to bring out a 10ft airplane vs a 6ft one
4. Fuel.....at $30 a gallon for nitro vs $3 a gallon for gas
5. Gas engines last years....nitro engines, not quite as long
6. Nitro tends to be harder to start and keep running vs gas
7. Choice of plane material.....wood/composite, both .....better choice in IMAC
8. 3D is primarly done with IMAC type planes, so you can see the benefit.
9. Flight times......Imac planes can fly 20+ mins.....10-12 mins on pattern
10. 2 sequences per rd vs one
11. Magazines devoted to these types of planes selling on store shelves


Its no wonder that pattern is falling (though I wouldn't say dead).

Prime example is this weekend I've got a choice, fly at Riverside IMAC with oh about 50+ pilots and at least 10 in my class
or
Fly in my home town contest with 20+ pilots and most likely 2 or 3 in my class?

I like both, but I like competing against others more.