FranklinRatliff
Well-Known Member
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The Reno Air Racing Association has a minimum weight requirement for Unlimiteds of 4,500 lbs (imposed as a reaction to the Pond Racer). The first 400 mph airplane, the Supermarine S.6B 1931 Schneider trophy racer, had an empty weight of only 4,560 lbs even with the huge Rolls-Royce R Type engine and would just barely have met the 4,500 lbs minimum weight. I do not see a purpose for the minimum weight, other than as an artificial barrier to progress.[/FONT]