There seems to be a lot of over analyzing in this entire thread (IMHO).
"Powered aircraft" has nothing to do with what you are legally authorized to
fly. Powered aircraft is mostly used in regulations dealing with equipment
requirements. What you are authorized to fly is specified by category,
class, and type (if appropriate). The order is significant. The categories
are listed in 61.5 (b). There is no general "aircraft category" rating, but
there are 5 specific aicraft category ratings (airplane, glider, ballon,
rotorcraft, lighter than air, and powered lift). Some are further subdived
into classes (e.g. single engine land, multi-engine sea). Flying a
self-launched motor glider requires an instructor endorsement, as does
high-performance in airplanes.

Paul

"T o d d P a t t i s t" wrote in message
...
"Andy" wrote:

The Feds seem fairly clear about what is meant by a rating - ref:
Rating means a statement that, as a part of a certificate, sets forth
special conditions, privileges, or limitations.

Andy,

I can't tell what point you are trying to make by referring
to the definition of "rating."

The "rating" in question is a private glider certificate.
That rating allows the holder to fly a motorglider. The FAA
considers motorgliders to be "powered aircraft." The basic
glider certificate is what is required to fly the powered
aircraft, and it can be flown even without a self launch
signoff. For example, a turbo sustainer pilot would never
need the self-launch signoff and self launchers can be flow
by aerotow without it.

Thus, IMHO, it's pretty inescapable that the holder of a
private glider certificate "holds at least a private pilot
certificate with a category rating for powered aircraft." Do
you disagree?