Great Planes Super Sportster 40: Specs, Engines and Flying Tips
The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is a classic low-wing sport plane, one of Great Planes’ most popular models, sold as a kit and later as the Super Sportster 40 MkII ARF. It spans 55.5 inches (1,410 mm), is 46 inches long, has 555 sq in of wing area and weighs about 4.75–5 lb. It flies on a .40–.46 two-stroke or .52 four-stroke glow engine (the prototype used an O.S. .46 FX) with a 4-channel radio. It’s now discontinued, but many are still flying and plans are available.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 55.5 in (1,410 mm) |
| Length | 46 in (1,170 mm) |
| Wing area | 555 sq in |
| Weight | 4.75–5 lb |
| Engine | .40–.46 two-stroke or .52 four-stroke |
| Radio | 4 channels, 4 servos |
From the MkII ARF manual and listings; the original kit is similar.
Why it’s popular
The Super Sportster became a classic second plane: after a high-wing trainer, its low wing and aileron control introduce pilots to faster, more aerobatic flying while remaining predictable. It’s quick enough to be exciting, does loops, rolls and inverted flight, and lands steadily. Many pilots remember it as the plane they learned aerobatics on. Its sibling, the more aerobatic Ultra Sport, is described in Great Planes Ultra Sport.
Engine choice
A .40–.46 two-stroke gives plenty of power; a .52 four-stroke offers a more realistic sound. O.S. engines were the reference engines for testing, and other brands of the same size work too; see OS model airplane engines. Electric conversions with a suitable outrunner and 4S LiPo are also common now.
Flying tips
- Set the CG as the manual specifies; check with a dive test later.
- Start on low rates with some expo.
- Take off with smooth throttle and a little right rudder.
- Practise loops and rolls at a safe height.
- Land with a little power; it slows down well but doesn’t like stalling low.
Buying used
- Check the firewall and engine mount for fuel soaking.
- Look for loose covering and warped surfaces.
- Inspect landing gear mounting.
- Check hinges and control horns.
- Ask about the engine’s condition and history.
Building from plans
Free plans exist in model plan archives, so the Super Sportster can still be scratch-built. Balsa and plywood construction is straightforward, and the result is a durable, repairable sport plane. Cover with iron-on film and follow the original manual for setup values.
A Great Planes classic
Great Planes produced many well-loved kits and ARFs over the years, and the Super Sportster family (including other sizes) became a club staple. Its straightforward construction and honest flying made it a favourite for teaching aerobatics, and it was common to see several at the same field. Many club instructors still recommend a similar low-wing sport plane as the step after a trainer.
Setup values
Follow the manual’s control throws and CG. If you don’t have the manual, downloadable copies exist online. Set low rates for the first flights and add expo to soften the response around centre. Check that the aileron linkages have no slop, as play causes flutter at speed. Once trimmed, add higher rates for aerobatics.
Before your first run
Charge the batteries, check every screw is tight and test all controls before the first flight. A few minutes of checks prevents most early breakages.
FAQ
What engine for a Super Sportster 40?
A .40–.46 two-stroke or .52 four-stroke.
Is it still sold?
No, it’s discontinued; used planes and plans exist.
Is it a good second plane?
Yes, it’s a classic step after a trainer.
Can it be electric?
Yes, with a suitable outrunner and LiPo.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
