I kinda disagree. Were not really launching on the same line everyones using certainly by the end of a contest. Specifically,,,, after the first bunch of launches, yes the winch frame and motor is the same constant but the lines at big events tend to get trashed from abrasions. This happens especially when were launching crosswind and downwind when its too costly of time to switch winches into the wind. So, as a result, the bigger the plane the more carefull you have to launch so as to not break the line from previous line abuse.
Im letting a large contest secret out of the bag here in this statement, but I generally fly a smaller area plane at big events when were using braided line and were not able to check the line before a flight. So that way I know I can take advantage of launch height when others cant push hard on the launch. Plus,,,,, one by one I watch others with big planes break lines and take score hits that drop them out of the running when in contest with no throw away rounds. Again, FAI events dont penalize your flight because of a broken line. The lines are your own and you can use what you want in strength, and check and test lines every flight if you wish. A broken line offers you a relaunch in a working time window. Seems more fair. You want the outcome of the event to be decided in the air afterall! Richard ----- Original Message ----- From: Joe Rodriguez To: [email protected] Sent: Thursday, December 20, 2007 10:40 AM Subject: Re: [RCSE] Icon 2 Don't change the line " Learn how to launch " If you go big and break the line!! fly it out!! You launch on the same equipment that everyone else is using, no need to change equipment for the select few " Learn to launch " and besides who says bigger is better(-: Airbus is sure having a tough time. smokinjoe ----- Original Message ----- From: Darwin N. Barrie To: [email protected] ; SC Johnson Sent: Thursday, December 20, 2007 6:48 AM Subject: Re: [RCSE] Icon 2 I'm sure this will be a very dynamic plane and competitive with the Euro models. My concern is the launching equipment. With the current crop of moldies, line breaks and winch bogging and ultimate failure are becoming more prevelant. Heavy enough line for these new "super ships," will be a burden for the lighter planes. Yes, I've CD'd lots of contests and a few big ones. We've tried some heavy line and it is great for the heavier planes but the lighter planes and 2 meters have a helluva time overcoming the line drag and weight. Where do we draw the line? Darwin N. Barrie Chandler AZ ----- Original Message ----- From: SC Johnson To: [email protected] Sent: Monday, December 17, 2007 6:08 AM Subject: [RCSE] Icon 2 OK all you sailplane junkies (Edgar, DP, you know who you are...) - there's been a lot of discussion about the new High End and some vague comparisons to the "old" Icon. Since Don has even stopped denying it, I thought its about time for some news about the new Icon 2 that Maple Leaf Design is developing. Its been in the works for over a year, and news has been leaking for a while. Get in line folks - this is gonna be a biggy, both literally and figuratively. Designed by the intrepid Dr. Mark Drela, this new high aspect ratio F3J/Thermal Duration plane has a wing span of 150" (3.81 m) and a VERY slender 2.4 friendly pod and carbon boom. I have had the privilege of fondling the parts and pieces as the design was developed, and I can tell you that this plane is way-cool. The first prototypes of the Icon 2 are being tested as I type this, and the first production planes (mine - VBG) will be delivered just after the first of the year. I understand there's already a list. No - I don't have photos or drawings.....and leave Don alone - he's busy working on my planes. Just get on the list..... Whahooo... Steve Johnson
