Great Planes Super Sportster 40: A High-Performance RC Model

Great Planes Super Sportster 40: A High-Performance RC Model

The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is an iconic radio-controlled (RC) model aircraft that has been popular among hobbyists for over three decades. First introduced in the 1980s, this low-wing sport flyer has undergone several changes, but the original design has remained almost unchanged. The Super Sportster 40 boasts a symmetrical airfoil wing design that makes it easy to handle and predict, making it a favorite among aspiring and expert pilots. This model airplane kit is designed with an all-wood structure, with a wingspan of 60 inches and a length of 50 inches, making it one of the most stable and snappy RC planes in its class. Hobbyists who love to fly and experiment with aerobatics are drawn to the Super Sportster 40, as it is known for its impressive capabilities in the air, including loops, rolls, and gliding. This model RC plane is powered using a standard 40-size glow engine or an electric motor, with the build process including the installation of a servo and receiver. In this article, we will explore the Great Planes Super Sportster 40 in-depth, including its design, features, performance, assembly, and maintenance.

Design and Features

  • The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is designed with a low-wing and symmetrical airfoil, which makes it predictable and easy to fly.
  • The model plane has a wingspan of 60 inches, a length of 50 inches, and a weight of around 6-8 pounds, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced pilots alike.
  • The construction of the model plane boasts an all-wood design, combining balsa and plywood for the main components of the model, making it both sturdy and lightweight.
  • The original design of the Super Sportster 40 kit includes a clear canopy, fiberglass cowling, and long-lasting landing gear.
  • The model plane is powered by a 40-size glow engine or can be upgraded with an electric motor for added convenience.

Additionally, this RC model airplane kit comes with easy-to-read instructions, making it simple for the user to assemble the model plane with the necessary equipment such as a receiver and servo. The low-wing design of the Super Sportster 40 makes it a stable and snappy RC plane, allowing for excellent aerobatics such as loops, rolls, and even inverted flight. The stable and straightforward handling of the model airplane kit, coupled with a forgiving structure, makes it the optimal choice for pilots of all skill levels. In terms of features, the Super Sportster 40 boasts great aerodynamic properties, a high strength-to-weight ratio, and a great range of flight capabilities.

What is the wingspan of the Super Sportster 40?

The wingspan of the Super Sportster 40 is 56 inches, with a wing area of 550 square inches. This information was provided on a website on September 10th, 2014. The Super Sportster 40 is designed to be powered by a 40 size engine.


Performance

The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is famous for its versatility in the air, making it ideal for pilots who want to perform aerobatic maneuvers, including loops, barrel rolls, and inverted flight.

This RC model airplane also flies exceptionally well at high speeds, with quick response times for the pilot to execute precision flying.

The model plane’s symmetrical airfoil design allows it to slow down considerably and glide smoothly, making it convenient for long flights and precise landings.

The Super Sportster 40 kit is a great performer in the sky, with its aerodynamics allowing pilots to maximize the control they have over the aircraft. It is also known for its durability, with many articles and pilots speaking about the kit’s robustness to crashes or damage, making it ideal for frequent flyers. In addition, the Super Sportster 40 has a sturdy design capable of handling crashes with minimal damage due to its balsa and plywood components, making it easy to fix and repair. Its design and features, combined with its excellent range of performance capabilities, make it one of the most popular and enduring RC model airplanes in the hobby industry.

Below is a table of specifications for the Great Planes Super Sportster 40 RC model airplane kit.

Specification Value
Wingspan 60 inches
Length 50 inches
Weight 6-8 pounds
Construction All-wood design with balsa and plywood
Power 40-size glow engine or electric motor (not included)

The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 kit’s design and features make it one of the most loved and popular RC model airplanes among hobbyists. Its durability, versatility in the air, and excellent range of performance capabilities are the primary reasons why pilots find it convenient to fly. Additionally, the kit’s balsa and plywood components make it easy to repair and maintain.

If you’re interested in purchasing The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 kit, you can buy it at various online stores include Tower Hobbies, Amazon and Hobbyzone.

What is the biggest RC plane?

According to a video on YouTube, the biggest RC plane is a 1:2 scale B777-300ER jet with a wingspan of 4.95 meters and a length of 5.6 meters. The video shows the massive plane taking off and flying smoothly.

Assembly and Maintenance

  • Assembling the Great Planes Super Sportster 40 requires some level of experience, but the instructions are easy to follow, and the kit comes with all the necessary hardware and accessories for assembly.
  • The build process involves installing an engine, servos, and receiver, which can take several days to complete, depending on the experience level of the pilot.
  • The model requires routine maintenance, including checking the engine, cleaning the airframe, and servicing the servos and receiver regularly.
  • Pilots should follow the recommended safety guidelines when operating the aircraft to prevent accidents.
  • There are numerous online resources available, including instructional videos and forums, where pilots can find helpful tips and advice on assembly and maintenance for the Great Planes Super Sportster 40.

The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is designed with the experienced RC modeler in mind, but that doesn’t mean beginners cannot build it. The instructions provided in the kit are clear and easy to follow for anyone with basic understanding of RC model building. However, beginners are advised to seek help from experienced builders or to refer to online resources for guidance. Routine maintenance is necessary to keep the aircraft in top condition, with pilots advised to follow the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines to ensure the plane stays in good condition after every flight. To avoid accidents, pilots should also follow the recommended safety guidelines when operating the model kit.

For those who are interested, Great Planes Super Sportster 40 kits and accessories can be purchased online from various RC model stores and websites, making it accessible for pilots all over the world.

Conclusion

The Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is a timeless classic in the world of RC models. Its sleek design, impressive performance, and durability make it a favorite among flyers of all skill levels. With its ability to perform aerobatic moves, including loops and rolls, this aircraft is capable of entertaining and thrilling pilots and spectators alike.

When it comes to assembly and maintenance, the Great Planes Super Sportster 40 requires some level of experience to complete, but following the provided instructions can make the process easier for beginners. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the aircraft performing at its best and to prolong its lifespan.

Overall, the Great Planes Super Sportster 40 is an ideal investment for RC model enthusiasts. Its design, performance, and capabilities have stood the test of time, and pilots looking for a new and thrilling experience should consider adding this aircraft to their collection. With numerous online resources available, including instructional videos and forums, pilots can find helpful tips and advice on assembly, maintenance, and operation to ensure their Super Sportster 40 provides years of enjoyment and entertainment.