SMYTH “SIDEWINDER”€

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sidewinder is a fully enclosed, two-seater aircraft featuring all-metal construction (aluminum skin over wings and a steel-tube fuselage) designed for simplified assembly using components borrowed from other aircraft.
  • It offers strong performance characteristics, including a top speed of 185 mph and a 425-mile range, with engine options adaptable from 65 to 125 hp (125-hp in the prototype).
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 1,450. Empty wt. 867. Fuel capacity 17. Wingspan 24’10”. Length 19’4″. Engine 125-hp Lycoming.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 185. Cruise mph 160. Stall mph 55. Climb rate 900. Ceiling 15,000. Takeoff run 800. Landing roll 1,500. Range 425.

In order to simplify construction of the Sidewinder, several standard components are borrowed from other established aircraft. The bubble canopy is from a Thorp T-18. The landing gear is taken from a Wittman. This fully enclosed two-seater has all-metal wings with aluminum skin and an all-metal steel-tube fuselage also covered with aluminum skin. Though the prototype was fitted with a 125-hp powerplant, engines from 65 to 125 hp can be used.

Plane & Pilot

Plane + Pilot is general aviation’s only adventure-based magazine. From where to go, to how to get there, and everything in between, your next great adventure awaits.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest Plane & Pilot Magazine stories delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE