Tag Archives: Falco

Technology

Why Italy’s Fiat CR.42 Falco Jet Quickly Fell Behind In WW2

The Fiat CR.42 Falco jet, powered by a Fiat A.74 RC38 14-cylinder radial engine with 840 horsepower, had a top speed of 274 mph. However, compared to other fighter planes of the time, such as the Hurricane, Messerschmitt, and Spitfire, its top speed was not impressive. The one-off version CR.42DB was able to reach 323 mph, which still holds the Guinness record for being the fastest biplane ever.

Despite being a biplane, which was considered obsolete during that period, Rosatelli, the designer of the Falco, introduced some advanced aerodynamic modifications. One notable change was the smaller size of the lower wing, which made the plane more agile and difficult to hit.

However, there were some questionable design choices as well. The Falco was built to be light, weighing less than 4,000 pounds. But this was achieved by excluding features such as armor and a working radio, which meant that pilots had no means of communication or coordinating attacks.

Furthermore, the early versions of the plane were armed with only two forward-facing Breda SAFAT machine guns, which were effective against older, wood and canvas-covered planes from World War I. However, they were not as effective against the more advanced armor and metal used in the newest fighter aircraft.

Despite these limitations, a total of 1,819 Falco jets were built between 1939 and 1944. While the majority were used by Italy, other countries like Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Sweden, Belgium, and Spain also operated them. One notable achievement was when a Luftwaffe-piloted Falco shot down a P-38 Lightning over Croatia in February 1945, possibly marking the last biplane victory. Today, only four surviving Falco jets are known to exist.

News

Falco Introduces Versatile New Arrakis Moto Shoes

Falco, an Italian manufacturer known for their motorcycle-specific boots and shoes, has released their latest motorcycle-approved boot, just in time for the transition from summer to fall. The Falco Arrakis boots are designed to provide maximum versatility and protection for riders in various riding conditions.

From a styling perspective, the Arrakis boots have a rugged design resembling hiking boots. This intentional design choice allows them to not only offer crash protection but also be suitable for walking, both on pavement and off-road. To achieve this, Falco has made the boots lightweight by using synthetic microfiber material for the upper portion, providing the same level of abrasion resistance as other technical fabrics. The boots also feature a ventilated area on the side for added comfort.

When it comes to safety and protection, the Arrakis boots have reinforcements on the front and heel for extra durability. They also have standard reinforcements on the insole to prevent injuries from torsional and crushing forces. Additionally, the boots feature D3O protectors on the ankles and reflective inserts on the back for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The Falco Arrakis boots meet certification standards according to EN13634:2017.

In terms of weather resistance, the Arrakis boots feature a waterproof membrane on the inside while remaining breathable for warmer weather. They also have a convenient winch-dial closure system for easy wearing, removal, and adjustment.

The Falco Arrakis boots are priced at 219.90 Euros (approximately $234 USD) and are available in sizes ranging from 40 to 47. They come in two color options: Black and Brown.