Short Field, depends on the airplane (the weight in particular). A VERY light 800-825 lb Thorp will marginally operate out of a 1600 ft strip but to be that light you're looking at a pretty stripped down airplane. As soon as your start adding goodies (weight) to the airplane you'll outgrow that short field in a hurry.
Rough field, The T-18 is not a rough field airplane. You can put 600X6 wheels/tires on there to help but that only goes so far (and doesn't do much for aesthetics). The T-18 has a very nice stiff (and strong) main gear but it does no favors on rough fields.
My advise, if you're looking for an RV then find an RV that fits your budget. A Thorp is not an RV (it's better ... and worse depending on your requirements). I talk/e-mail with a half dozen RV lookers/buyers a month who are enticed by the Thorp for it's price. Some are a good fit, but based on the 1600 ft requirement it sounds to me like you're better off in an RV, that's where they shine (the Thorp has the top end).
_________________ Lee Walton Houston, TX N51863,N118LW KEFD
Last edited by admin on Sat Nov 20, 2010 9:36 am, edited 1 time in total.
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