Bill Ortmeyer at Flagler Airport in Fl. had a Parsons Gyro powered by Rotary engine that had a belt reduction dive.  I am not sure what model engine it was, but I do know that it didn't feel like it was lacking power.  I wish I had paid more attention to it back then.

Bob Perkinson



-------------- Original message ----------------------
From: "Russell Duffy" <rusty@radrotary.com>
>
> Many years ago there was a Rotary powered Gyrocopter flying.
> I believe the owners name was Jim Mayfield or something like that.
> His engine was supplied by Dave Atkins.
> I also heard that it accumulated 1000's of hours as it was used for
> training.
> Anyone have more info on this?
>  
> There have been a number of Parson Tandem gyros over the years with rotary
> engines, and I've also heard the stories of how long they lasted.  Right
> now, you can get excellent gyro trying from a man named Steve McGowan in GA.
> He's got a Parsons Tandem with a 12A engine and belt drive.  
>  
> There have also been at least a few Twinstars with rotary engines, and no
> doubt a few other gyros as well.  
>  
> Cheers,
> Rusty
>  
> PS- My gyro is almost officially for sale.  It was fun, but I'm just a fixed
> wing, closed cockpit kinda guy I guess.  The next project will be an RV-12,
> with the intention of putting the single rotor in it.    
>