The PHOENIX 8 has a quirky history as far as being declared SPA-legal. The arguement was made that since the EARLY PHOENIX SERIES is legal, the whole series should also be legal, (through to the Phoenix 8). I don't agree with that line of thinking, but the decision was made long ago.

Interestingly, since I've been associated with SPA, (2005), I have not seen a single Phoenix 8, (or ANY Phoenix for that matter) at a contest. I believe the reason has to do with the small engine compartment of the Phoenix 5 through 8. These planes were obviously designed to be used with a tuned pipe and a hot .61 in a cramped engine compartment. The planes that do best in SPA, (such as the DADDY RABBIT on the mock cover or PHANTOM 1 that President Bruce Underwood flys), have a larger wing area, and can handle the popular, (and larger/heavier) .91 OS Surpass II.

The Dirty Birdy seems to be the exception, and seems equally at home with a .91 or .61 2-stroke. The D.B. are built LIGHT if they have the 4-stroke.

Duane