Closeup examination of the Dr.1 at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome indicates
that its main airfoils had far less wire bracing than any Sopwith design
(can't recall if Rhinebeck has a Camel or not at the moment). Were the
differences in parasitic drag enough to cause difference in max
attainable speed?

Memory suggests that Rhinebeck's airframes are as faithful to original
as can be found anywhere.

James Linn wrote:

"Alberto Panno-Peano" wrote in message
om...

I think Biplanes and Triplanes were the best planes ever made.

I think the Red Baron could beat any plane of today with his triplane !

I even think that Zeppelins are better than most modern planes !


Saw an interesting documentary on Discovery channel called Great Military
Clashes. The episode focused on WWI, and started with the German Howitzer
versus the British 18 pounder field gun.

The second half was the Fokker triplane versus Sopwith Camel. In the end it
came down to speed - the drag of three wings of the triplane limited the
designs speed. It had an advantage in climb and turning, but speed is life.
The wings also made take off and landing difficult as they blocked the view
of the runway. The red baron was a superb pilot who could make the most of
his airplane.

Interestingly enough they speculated that the Fokker was inspired by an
earlier Sopwith Triplane, which didn't have as man vices in the visibility
department. But it was abandoned in favour of the biplane because of speed.

James Linn