Discussion Kaos and UltraSport some info.

[dhal22]

It does add a lot of weight and complexity. If I am not mistaken today’s pattern plans have stoped using retracts.

Complexity yes, weight, not so much. Classic pattern planes of the 80’s were often 8-9 lbs and hauled the mail with a piped 60/61. I can build the same and come out under 8 lbs (with retracts).

 

[dhal22]

I built a MK Blue Angel from scratch and ended up under 8 lbs with retracts. My 6 year build thread is on RCU under ‘Another Blue Angel build’ thread.

 

[Snoopy1]

Why are they all tricycle gear and not tail draggers . You can still have retracts with tail draggers. It must be difficult to have the motor up front retract and gas tank.

 

[dhal22]

They look much better with tricycle gear. Some choose the taildragger option for simplicity but I think tricycle looks much better.