E28POWERM20
Well-Known Member
I trying to plan out my build of a Ragwing RW11 Ragabond 2 seater. The specs call for a Rotax 503 or equivelant(under 100lbs). I don't mind using a 2-stroke engine, and there are plenty of nice models out there, and they make good power. The issue I have is the additional work of having to monitor it closer than a 4-stroke. The fuel consumption is also higher on the 2-stroke. Not to mention it doesn't sound quite right. So, the issue I have is the weight of the VW, which is about 40lbs heavier for the full VW engine without starter and alternator, 60lbs more with starter/alt. I considered a 1/2 VW, but I don't know if 40-45hp is enough, I do live at sea level though. I already won't have a lot of useful load(425lbs), which would be worse with a VW, as well as possibly causing CG issues, though my plans have provisions for a heavier engine by lengthening the fuselage, which will also hurt my useful load. It only has a gross weight of 850lbs, but I think I still need at least 50hp to have safe performance, 60+hp would be ideal. I also looked at the HKS 700E, but $10K? Too steep for me. Is there an option I forgot about?
Ian
Ian
