Midwest Super Sweet Stik 60 60" Laser-Cut Short Kit (Near Complete)

Overview

The Midwest Super Sweet Stik 60 is the larger sibling of the legendary Sweet Stik 40, offering the same superb flying characteristics in a more powerful package. Designed by Pete Frankenthal and originally kitted by Midwest in 1983, this sport model features a 60-inch wingspan and 780 square inches of wing area. The Super Sweet Stik 60 delivers exceptional performance with .45 to .61 power, making it an ideal choice for sport flying and fun fly events.

This Varlocity Laser & Models laser-cut short kit provides the precision-cut components required to begin construction, allowing builders the satisfaction of completing the structure using traditional techniques. The kit is ideal for modellers looking for a rewarding sport project that delivers exceptional flight performance.

Aircraft History

The Super Sweet Stik 60 was designed by Pete Frankenthal and kitted by Midwest Products in 1983, following the success of the smaller Sweet Stik 40. It was developed as a larger, more powerful version of the classic Sweet Stik design, offering the same superb flight characteristics with the ability to handle larger engines. The Sweet Stik family itself was a refined version of the iconic Ugly Stik, originally designed by Phil Kraft in the 1960s.

The Super Sweet Stik 60 quickly gained a reputation as one of the best flying sport models available, offering a perfect blend of stability and aerobatic capability. The design has remained popular with modellers for decades, and many consider the entire Sweet Stik family to be among the best flying sport designs ever produced.

About the Model

The Midwest Super Sweet Stik 60 features a traditional built-up construction using balsa and plywood. The model is designed for .45 to .61 two-stroke glow engines or equivalent power, and four-channel radio control. The construction uses conventional modelling tools and techniques, and the plan includes full-size templates for all required parts.

The model is a great flying plane, with builders noting its smooth, stable, and capable performance. It is an excellent choice for sport flying, fun fly events, or as a reliable everyday model. The larger size provides excellent visibility and presence in the air.

Features

• Precision laser-cut balsa and plywood components
• Based on the original Midwest kit design by Pete Frankenthal
• Traditional built-up construction
• Accurate rib and former profiles
• 60-inch wingspan for excellent flight characteristics
• Designed for .45-.61 glow or equivalent power
• Four-channel control (aileron, elevator, rudder, throttle)
• Proven flying characteristics
• Larger size for improved visibility
• Manufactured by Varlocity Laser & Models

Why You'll Love Building It

• Traditional stick-built aeromodelling that's enjoyable from the first rib to final covering.
• A rewarding project for builders of all skill levels.
• Excellent sport performance with a wide flight envelope.
• Larger size provides great visibility and presence in the air.
• A proven Midwest design that has stood the test of time.

What's Included

• Precision laser-cut balsa wing ribs
• Laser-cut plywood formers
• Laser-cut fuselage components
• Wing ribs
• Strip wood
• Sheet balsa
• Tailplane components
• Fin and rudder components
• Lite-ply structural parts
• Additional laser-cut structural components shown on the original plan

Only the precision laser-cut wooden parts are supplied.

What's Required

Mandatory Items

• Original Midwest plans - Available separately on Outerzone
• Plywood sheeting where required
• Building board
• Adhesives
• Covering materials
• Hinges
• Control linkages and pushrods
• Hardware
• Power system
• Radio system

Recommended Equipment

• .45 to .61 two-stroke glow engine (or equivalent electric power)
• Appropriate propeller for chosen engine
• 4-channel radio system
• Standard servos
• Appropriate fuel tank
• Spinner

Verified Specifications

Recommended Equipment

• .45 to .61 two-stroke glow engine (OS Max .55 AX, Super Tigre .60, or equivalent)
• Appropriate propeller for chosen engine
• 4-channel radio system
• Standard servos
• Appropriate fuel tank
• Spinner

These recommendations are based on the original design documentation and common building practice. Builders may select equivalent modern equipment to suit their preferences.

Builder Notes

• Suitable for intermediate builders with some experience in traditional balsa construction.
• This is the larger 60-size version of the Sweet Stik, offering excellent performance with .45-.61 engines.
• Consider using two aileron servos in the wing instead of torque rods for better control and setup.
• Use wing bolts to hold the wing on for a cleaner installation.
• Be aware that the plane can come out nose-heavy with some engine setups. Consider mounting the servos further back or adding tail weight to achieve correct CG.
• Dry-fit major assemblies before gluing.
• Maintain accurate alignment throughout construction.
• Balance the completed aircraft carefully at the recommended centre of gravity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does this kit include the plans?
  No. The original Midwest plans are required separately and are available as a free download from Outerzone.
• Is hardware included?
  No. This is a laser-cut short kit only. Hardware, covering, and adhesives are not included.
• Is this suitable for beginners?
  Some experience with traditional balsa construction is recommended.
• Can it be covered with film covering?
  Yes. Iron-on film is suitable and commonly used.
• Can modern radio equipment be used?
  Yes. Modern radio systems are entirely suitable.
• Does the kit include strip wood?
  No. Strip wood and sheeting must be supplied by the builder.
• What engine is recommended?
  The design is intended for .45 to .61 two-stroke glow engines or equivalent power.
• How does this differ from the Sweet Stik 40?
  This is the larger 60-size version, with a 60-inch wingspan and designed for .45-.61 engines.

Safety & Disclaimer

This product is a precision laser-cut short kit. Strip wood, hardware, covering materials, adhesives, electronics, power system and building supplies are not included unless specifically stated. Builder experience is recommended. Power system recommendations are suggestions only and should be selected to suit the completed aircraft and intended flying style. All specifications are based on the original Midwest design documentation and are subject to builder interpretation. The manufacturer accepts no responsibility for the final assembly, airworthiness, or operation of the completed model. The builder assumes all responsibility for the safe construction and operation of the model aircraft.