SonexBuilders.net

TIRES, my thoughts...........I seriously doubt that the majority of Sonex flyers have a real need for the larger, that also means several pounds heavier, 5x5 tires. I was building my Sonex at the same time as Tony Spicer, David Koelzer, etc. and for whatever reason, we all started with the 5x5 tires. As time went on some of us discarded the larger tires and put the smaller 11.4x5 tires on our planes and never looked back (even Tony who was based at a grass field). Weight is such a killer of performance that I'm continually surprised at how many builders are willing to sacrifice, in any way, the operational characteristics of these little planes while in the air for some real or perceived enhancement while operating on the ground.

So get the toe-in adjusted properly, make 3 point takeoffs and landings, minimize braking, keep 50 psi in the tires, rotate the tires on the wheels, and these little tires will last a very very long time. And, finally, at a discount, buy the unused small tires off other builders who just can't be convinced to use them. Just my opinion after 24 years of following the Sonex product line.

Art,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Sonex taildragger #95,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Jabiru 3300 #261

And, finally, at a discount, buy the unused small tires off other builders who just can't be convinced to use them.

I've bought one set this way - they are going on now. Anybody else selling some?

I would not put on heavier tires. Weight is the enemy. Especially with 80 HP.

Bryan Cotton wrote:

And, finally, at a discount, buy the unused small tires off other builders who just can't be convinced to use them.

I've bought one set this way - they are going on now. Anybody else selling some?

I would not put on heavier tires. Weight is the enemy. Especially with 80 HP.

Ive been running mcreary 5 x 5 tyres for years. They wear really well and are great for grass. But yeah, they do add a lot of weight.

I have been down for some unplanned maintenance as well as some horrible weather we have had in the midwest. But today everything aligned and we were airborne again.

That was fun!

And the aileron roll rate definitely looks faster than mine in the Sonex with standard ailerons.

What:

- entry speed
- pitch up angle
and
- stick deflection

were you using ?

Thanks Graeme! 120kts entry, about 30 degrees pitch up, using most of the available stick deflection. Sometimes all.

Yea - I use anything between 70 and 115 KIAS. 30 pitch up.

On standard ailerons with 115 KIAS my Sonex goes round in about 3.25 sec.

Post- annual check flight. My first condition inspection since we completed the airplane.