Constructed of aircraft aluminum, it can be tied down outside for a season of flying with no more worries than the typical 172 owner has for protection from the elements. The magic however occurs not with the materials, but with the very fat modified Gottingen airfoil. The outer section of the wingspan has a very noticeable drooped leading edge. It not only acts as a fence for the inboard wing airfoil, it stalls at a higher angle of attack than the inboard wing panels, keeping the ailerons very effective at speeds where general aviation aircraft can t fly. Generous wing area keeps the wing loading light, yet the large, responsive ailerons give plenty of control.
Stalls are a non-event, and have to be encouraged.
The fuselage carries the design goals of durability and safety forward with proven materials and concepts. The aluminum cowl of the aircraft blends nicely into the semi-enclosed cabin of the R1. The flat wrapped windscreen and aluminum fore-cabin give excellent protection from wind and bugs but loses none of the wide open feel of advanced Ultralights. Tricycle gear was a priority for the safety of low time pilots, and good brakes were a must as well. If you noticed the Ranger s R1 designation, you may be wondering if there is an R2 coming soon.