| Feature | FSX (e.g., Lancair 360) | BTS (e.g., Bearhawk) | Vans RV-7/7A | |---------|------------------------|----------------------|---------------| | Cruise Speed | 240–260 mph | 110–130 mph | 190–210 mph | | Stall Speed | 65 mph | 38 mph | 52 mph | | Takeoff Roll | 1,000 ft | 250 ft | 750 ft | | G-rating | +6/-4 (but fragile) | +4/-1.5 | +6/-3 | | Build Time | 2,500+ hours | 1,800 hours | 1,500 hours | | Cost (kit) | $55k+ (retract) | $35k+ | $40k | | IFR Friendly | Yes (but slippery) | No (drafty) | Yes | | Bush Capable | No | Yes | Limited |
In the FSX modding community, stands for "Better Than Standard" or sometimes "Back To Simplicity." However, in the context of this keyword, BTS most commonly refers to "Better Than Stock" —a suite of modifications that overhaul FSX’s flight dynamics, ground handling, and propeller physics. A "BTS mod" for an RV-7 replaces Microsoft’s generic light-aircraft logic with custom-coded aerodynamics that mimic the real RV’s notorious roll rate and elevator sensitivity. fsx bts vans rv 7 7a better
Van's RV-7 and RV-7A remain some of the most highly regarded homebuilt aircraft add-ons. Choosing between the "7" and the "7A" depends entirely on your preferred flying style and landing challenges. Quick Comparison: RV-7 vs. RV-7A RV-7 (Taildragger) RV-7A (Tricycle Gear) Landing Gear Conventional (tailwheel) Tricycle (nosewheel) Ground Visibility Limited; requires "S-turns" while taxiing Excellent; clear view over the nose Speed (75% Power) ~179 knots (slightly faster) ~177 knots Off-Field Handling Better for rough/grass strips Risk of nose-overs on turf Skill Requirement High (more challenging to land) Low (modern, stable handling) Which One Is "Better" for You? Choose the RV-7 if: You want a challenge | Feature | FSX (e
BTS is better for Idaho backcountry strips. The RV-7 is better for crossing state lines. Choosing between the "7" and the "7A" depends
“I sold my FSX Lancair for an RV-7A. Sure, I lost 40 mph cruise. But I gained a plane I can land in a 1,500-foot grass strip without sweating. The RV is better for my aging knees.”