ChrisS

I have a new Hangar 9 Alpha trainer. I will be flying it from a grass field. I have heard a lot of discussion about using bigger wheels. It has 2.75 inch wheels on it now. Does it make sense to put bigger wheels (3.25 inch) on it? Will bigger wheels effect the planes handling in the air or on the ground in a negative way?

a68fan

I have 3" wheels on mine.. Can't really tell any difference...

Yub, yub, cmdr!

Unless it's REALLY small and the plane is really light (which I don't think it is), it should be fine. I have 2.5 inch diameter wheels, and they roll fine in the grass on my apartment's lawn. (Grass is like 4 inches)

Montague

If you have trouble getting off the ground, then yes, larger wheels will help. So will adjusting the gear so the wing is level with the ground, or slightly nose-up (very very slightly). (nose down is better on pavement, btw).

In the air, you can put on some pretty huge wheels before there is an issue. I do recommend you use the light weight foam wheels, and always check the CG after your change, as a weight change in the nosewheel position can cause a noticeable CG shift.

LearjetMech

I fly off grass and have the stock wheels on it. No problems so far!

dcw1969

I have the stock wheels on my Alpha and have only flown from grass. I haven't had any problems at all with them.

Aarial

Stock on grass has always worked for me. I wouldn't add the extra weight.

jettstarblue

Got an Alpha, and the aerobatic version the Arrow. Both take off and fly fine from grass, and even soft ground covered w/grass just fine, don't waste your money on more wheels.

Jetts