In 1932, The Gee Bee brothers invented the Gee Bee Model R, also known as the Super Sportster. Despite this plane’s goofy appearance, it was one of the most successful racing aircraft of it’s time.
Source
History
The Granville Gee Bee model R was designed and built in 1932, and took its first flight on August 13, 1932. The Gee Bee brothers originally designed the Super Sportster to be a cross-country plane, but they soon realized it’s aerodynamic design and powerful engine would make it the perfect racing aircraft. In September of 1932, the Model R proved how capable it really was. Piloted by Jimmy Doolittle during the Thomson Trophy Race, the Super Sportster lapped every single one of its opponents accept for one. After the race, Doolittle remarked “She is the sweetest ship I’ve ever flown.”
Design & Capabilities
Although the design of the Gee Bee model R looks strange, it was actually very effective. Zantford Granville, one of the engineers designing the aircraft, reasoned that a teardrop-shaped fuselage would give the aircraft less drag than traditional straight-tapered ones. In addition, he placed the cockpit near the rear of the aircraft to give the pilot a better field-of-view while racing. With this design in place, the Gee Bee model R was capable of a top speed of 294 mph (255 kts), and a range of 925 miles!
Why the Super Sportster should be added
The Gee Bee Model R Super Sportster would be a great addition to the Infinite Flight fleet. Not only would this aircraft be extremely fun to fly, but it would also be a challenge for those up for it! Another reason this should be added is because Infinite Flight hasn’t really added any racing aircraft yet, and that should change with the Super Sportster!
