"G.R. Patterson III" wrote in message ...

One disadvantage is the fact that aircraft on the base leg of a reverse-direction
pattern can't be seen by high-wing aircraft waiting at the runway

Not at our field. The aircraft at the hold line actually has his back
to his OWN base leg. He's looking at the ultralight base leg.
You've got to turn towards final before you leave anyhow
(or in the Navion slide the canopy back so you can see 360 degrees).