RCU Forums - View Single Post - Tail draggers, why are they harder to fly
Old 01-05-2009 | 07:52 AM
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Clay Walters
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Default RE: Tail draggers, why are they harder to fly

Ground handling.

There is a point where your airspeed rises enough that the tail lifts off and the tailwheel is no longer effective while at the same time the airspeed isn't high enough for the rudder to be very effective either.

With most models this is a very short period of time and is of little consquence. But a tricycle gear benefits from the nosewheel steering until you purposely roll it off.

A nosegear tends to keep the prop from touching and keeps the plane from nosing over. A taildragger offers no such protection and demands the pilot maintain the attitude of the plane until it slows enough to firmly ride on the tailwheel.

Hope this helps,

Clay