DW 48002 GeeBee Super Sportster R-1 Model Kit

Das Werk DW 48002 GeeBee Super Sportster R-1 Model Kit

The R-1 rapidly earned a reputation as a potentially very dangerous machine.  The small wings, very low polar moment of inertia, and tiny control surfaces made for an aircraft that could rapidly get away from all but the most skilled pilots.  This shortcoming was common to most air racers of the day.

During the 1933 Bendix Trophy race, racing pilot Russell Boardman was killed, flying Number 11.  After taking off from a refuelling stop in Indianapolis, Indiana, the R-1 stalled, and crashed.