Performance concerns

[Bob Patterson]

Several Ramblers have expressed concerns that their aircraft
may not have enough performance for the trip. We have flown this route
several times in the Rotax 912-powered Rebel (80 HP.), with NO problems.
This aircraft weighs 716 lb empty. Last Ramble that crossed the Rockies
also included at 65 hp. Champ, and a Taylorcraft with 2 aboard ...

If you are worried, find a chunk of airspace where you can climb
to reasonable heights. The field elevation at Okotoks, south of Calgary,
is about 4,000 ft. ASL. This is our jumping-off point for the trip through
"The Rocks". From Okotoks, we go in over Kananaskis, Canmore (remember
to wave to "Mike" ;-) , Banff, Lake Louise, through Kicking Horse Pass
(where we have a 'member of parliament' :-) ), and into Golden, to
refuel and reload the cameras. I recall that this is only about a 2 or
2 1/2 hour trip, but VERY picturesque !! Kicking Horse Pass is quite wide,
(~ 5 miles ..) and has a flat bottom, with the Bow River winding through it.

Just climb to 4,000 ft., and imagine you are taking off -
it will take a longer roll, and the climb is leisurely, but, as long
as you can climb to 6,500 ft, YOU WILL BE OK !! Last "Ramble through
The Rocks" was flown at 6,500 all the way, except for the landings
at Golden, Revelstoke, Vernon, and Merritt, all lower, at about 2,500ft
or less. We will have to stay at about 5,000 ft ASL until past Springbank,
most likely, so there will be at least 15 - 20 miles to climb to 6,500 !
Lots of room !!

I must say, I really PREFER to go through at 8,500 ft., but the
trip CAN, and HAS, been done safely at 6,500. The real secret is waiting
for the right weather conditions - we just WON'T go if it's too windy !
This might mean staying in Okotoks for several days (3 is my record).
We have friends in Calgary, and I'm sure we'll find LOTS to do !! :-)

Hope this helps relieve some worries !!

.....bobp

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