Aerodynamics Question (Trikes)

[RJM62]

I've been thinking about Weight Shift Control aircraft ("trikes") lately. I've noticed that most of them have ridiculously low stall and minimum maneuvering speeds, and very short takeoff and landing distances.

What I'm wondering is how much are the low stall speeds and maneuvering speeds of trikes a function of the wing design, versus the need in a conventional aircraft to maintain adequate airflow over the control surfaces to make them effective?

In other words, because a trike is controlled about its axes by weight shift, rather than by control surfaces, is its ability able to operate at lower speeds than conventional airplanes partially due to the ineffectiveness of a conventional airplane's control surfaces at such low speeds?

I understand that the answer will differ with every model's design. I'm just generally curious, not needful of precise information.

Thanks,

Rich

 

[Ken Ibold]

Think wing loading. Divide weight by wing area.

 

[tonycondon]

stalled is stalled. doesnt matter about whether you have control surfaces at the back of the wing or not. Ken's got it right, plus the high camber high lift wings will fly slow. that wing is also why they dont fly very fast.

 

[RJM62]

Wow, that was fast. Thanks.

I have to go make a living now and will check back later. (I didn't want to be rude and log off without saying thanks. )