bi plane fundementals...

[kral27]

Does anyone know where to find information regarding the flight charechteristics (pros/cons) of using a biplane design vs. a non biplane design. Any links and or posts much appreciated. I would also appreciate anyone to share their experience from flying both types as I have never flown a biplane (personally or rc); I've only flown the non biplane types (real and rc). I'm using the words non-biplane because I can't find a translation from turkish to english.

[Sparky Paul]

It's "monoplane".. :)
Each configuration has its merits and pitfalls.
The end use is what determines which might be preferrable.
For extreme manuverability, biplanes are a good choice.
For going fast, they're a poor choice.

[raptor22]

well said. They also tend to have more coupling than monoplanes, it seems. That is just a generalization, though; I'm sure a very well designed biplane could get rid of that problem.

They tend to have much higher induced drag due to haveing more tips and a smaller aspect ratio.

[BMatthews]

Kral, the two biplanes I've flown for RC both flew very close to what a monoplane flies like. The only difference is that the glide at idle or if the engine quits is not as good. But even there I've also flown monoplanes that for various reasons were very draggy and didn't glide any better than my biplanes do. So the difference is there but it's minor from a flying perspective.

[Sparky Paul]

Bruce, my biplane Kadets can turn/loop at least 1/2 the diameter of the same plane without the lower wing...
And popping the flaps on the lower wing.. !!!!!!!

[Marion]

Nice looking Bipe, Sparky !!

[edi]

Biplanes and triplanes tend to have a lower wing loading and/or wingspan. If they are not cantilever, they are often sturdier than similar monoplanes. I have lost several planes due to wing failure, but there has never been a biplane or triplane among them.

[edi]

And of course, they look so much nicer :D