Flight testing of 800x 6" main tires and an 8” pneumatic tailwheel has been completed. Flight tests on both S-6S and S-7S, and LS have proven only a 2 to 3 MPH loss in cruise speeds. There is some extra care in handling needed when landing in extreme crosswinds, upwards of 30 MPH at 90 degrees presents more pilot workload due to the higher profile. The tires raise the overall height of the plane about 2” plus, and it is enough to feel the difference in high wind taxi.

The fun factor outweighs the loss in speed and slight bit of extra vigilance in cross winds and taxing. The extra wheel diameter makes landing much smoother. Test landings on plowed wheat fields and pasture show the option to be very practical if your normal operations do not include a prepared landing strip.

We call it the Bush Option and it includes the 800x 6" tires and 8” pneumatic tailwheel from Matco for an extra $325. The option can also be sold on new kits with tires or tailwheel only for $175 and $150 respectively.

The tailwheel is a both part RANS and Matco. Working with George Happ of Matco we were able to combine the RANS tailwheel swivel body to the Matco fork. The Bush option can be purchased as separate items to retro fit your existing plane.

Please note: 800 x 6" tires are NOT approved for use on any RANS aircraft with 5/8” axle size.