Gyrocopters / AutoGyros

[erdnase]

I just saw one of these on TV, and have been reading about them online. I always remember wanting one as a kid, and I've been watching some great youtube videos.

I had no idea the main rotor is unpowered! Apparently the lift is created by autorotation? In that respect, they're more than just mini helicopters - which is what I thought they were. They're totally different machines. Would that be why they don't seem to have tail-rotors, which are needed in helicopters to counteract the torque and stop the whoel body of the craft spinning? They're fascinating machines.. the sort of thing I can imagine knocking together in my garage like a mad professor.

Has anyone here flown one, or even better, own one? I have images of myself flying around in one of them when I'm retired, like an old eccentric



Here's a good clip, although the main rotor seems to get up to speed while the gyro is stationary. Why is that happening?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYacJbLA1Hk

Edited by erdnase on Thursday 5th August 19:00

[erdnase]

Rocksteadyeddie said:

A chopper with a couple of bits bolted on. What could possibly go wrong?

If you drive a TVR, you wouldn't be asking that question

[erdnase]

This one looks so cheap and cheerful!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iyx2Ykj6UV8

[erdnase]

I just read that "Unlike a helicopter an autogyro cannot hover, take off or land vertically."

Interesting! I still want one

[erdnase]

I thought PH would be all over the autogyro ethos! To me, they're like flying TVRs.. raw, minimalist and for the dedicated.

[erdnase]

srob said:

He did several low level passes, sitting side-saddle with no hands for one.

lol, brilliant

Edited by erdnase on Friday 6th August 14:17