"Jimmy's Flying Power Plant"
by Christopher Roodt

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The Gee Bee Model R-1, piloted by Jimmy Doolittle in 1932, reached the unbelievable speed of 296.2 mph.   The R-2 version was identical to the R-1, except for a slightly different curve to the cowling.  Designed for the Bendix Transcontinental Race, the R-2 had a smaller engine than the R-1 in order to gain fuel economy (the Wasp Jr, 985ci, 530hp).  Bearing the title of "Pilot Killer" for many years, the Gee Bee Racers were tough to fly. Reciently, a true-to-scale replica has been built, proving that the little "Engine in a Barrel" airplanes are indeed tough to fly, but can be flown safely at the hands of a skilled pilot.
 

Gee Bee Model R-1

 

2002 Wings Publishing