I guess each builder just needs to evaluate why he/she incorporates a certain feature on the airplane. Retracts have a certain pizzaz, but I'm of the opinion that they offer no benefit in cruise speed and only complicate the aircraft. Another example of this would be the Loehle 5151 (P-51 lookalike, with a 100MPH Vne)- retracts are offered as an option simply because builders want the look. More parts and complexity, more systems to install and maintain, and one more thing to remember and forget (gear down and locked).
"Simplicate and add lightness". Oscar Zuniga San Antonio, TX mailto: taildr...@hotmail.com website at http://www.flysquirrel.net _________________________________________________________________ MSN Shopping has everything on your holiday list. Get expert picks by style, age, and price. Try it! http://shopping.msn.com/content/shp/?ctId=8000,ptnrid=176,ptnrdata=200601&tcode=wlmtagline
