Unable to obtain sufficient airspeed in F.E.2b

[Minimayhem]

Hi, 

Coming back to IL2 after a 2 year break.  Decided I want to run through the WW1 timeline.

I'd like to fly the F.E.2b as a career but for some reason I can't seem to gain sufficient airspeed for any meaningful maneuvers.  Max throttle, mixture set correct to maximise rpm, I struggle to get above 52 mph.  I know I'm doing something wrong as the AI planes in my squadron are outpacing me by a good 25-30 mph.

There is a control to the left of the cockpit, labelled Retart and Advance, no doubt to control ignition timing, but I can't figure out which key to bind my HOTAS too.  

Feel like a proper noob, but any advice?

Thanks

[Rodwonder]

Have you tried a lighter load of petrol?

[JG4_Moltke1871]

Optimised throttle, mixture and radiator are the tools you have.

the leveller on the left in the cockpit is without function in the game.

You may check again, if the loadout is the same as your ai squadmates there should no big difference, in opposite, the ai should have problems to follow you 😉

[dannytherat]

After take off, hold the nose down to build up speed. If you let the speed build up to about 70mph before starting to climb (and try to maintain it in the climb) that should help.