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Thread: Speed, racing, drag, and "toes in the wind"
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Old 03-29-2003 | 05:47 AM
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js3
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Default Speed, racing, drag, and "toes in the wind"
Originally posted by BMatthews
Oh, and don't forget handlaunch, the takeoff dolly or retract gear. Fast models don't hang their toes out in the wind...
I was going to post this in the delta/speed thread but figured I'd better start my own since this is veering off topic...

I know F3D (FAI) racers benefit from retracting the gear to prevent the "toes out in the wind" syndrome. However, in the events in which I'm involved (Q500 and Q40), the rules specify that the designs must have fixed gear.

My question is, what is better... To have the gear tucked in tight so that it hangs in the prop wash or should the designer try to place the undercarriage in the "clean" air away from any prop wash? I've heard opinions both ways and would like your opinions.

Thanks very much!
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