K-Factor Pattern an invisible group

[GeorgeF.]

Everyone likes to compare Pattern to IMAA which is part of the 
problem.   Granted an IMAA pilots will not think twice about tieing up 
$1000+ in an plane/radio/engine.

However I feel we're comparing ourselves to the WRONG group.  New pattern 
pilots do NOT come from the ranks of IMAA.  New pattern pilots come from 
the ranks of SPORT FLIERS!.   Ask yourself this question: "Before I got 
into pattern was I a sport flier or an IMAA flier?"   I bet that 85% or 
more of you say "sport flier".

Sport fliers in general do not nor will every spend the mega bucks for the 
latest YS 1.4 and largest pattern plane "allowed".  However the sport flier 
is going to see that huge plane flying and see nothing but dollar signs and 
say "I can't afford this".

Just remember, how many IMAA fliers convert to pattern versus Sport Fliers 
convert to pattern.   You'll all catering to the wrong customer base.....

George



At 07:03 AM 11/1/2002 -0800, you wrote:
>Hello All-
>I don't deny the results of the poll re: cost prohibitive, but I would
>observe it is probably more of a "perspective" issue.  As one just getting
>into it ( I fly Sportsman in Northern Cal with a cheap ARF ), I think it's
>all relative to your interest level.
>When I go to the field and see these same guys flying IMAA planes, or even
>expensive ARF's, you know these guys have at least $1000 tied up in it.  But
>it doesn't bother them, because they enjoy it.  If they had the same
>enjoyment for Pattern, I suspect money would not be the issue.  Case in
>point - I am building a Typhoon 2+2 with an OS 160FX in it.  Not the most
>expensive setup, but with a family and being self employed, all money
>matters.  Point is, I enjoy it, so I am doing it.  Where there is a will,
>there is a way!  Just like when the latest and greatest IMAA legal ARF or
>kit comes out, these guys won't bat an eye at the cost, they just find a way
>to do it.
>As a group maybe we need to put less emphasis on equipment to beginners, and
>more on just piquing their interest in performing precision aerobatics.
>Once the seed is planted, it will probably grow on it's own.  It's worked
>for me!
>Later All,
>Chris Larson
>NSRCA 3484

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