Originally Posted by Lowlevel

Above FL200, the CRJ is a pig to climb, 300-500ft per minute (300 fpm when you get up higher)

Sorry to start the whole speedbrake debate. I use them in the 737 when necessary. A lot of places we go, they keep us high and then dump us in (ATC). In the CRJ, the speedbrakes are much more noticable to passengers, than in other planes (maybe because of the detents). Again, like others have said, planning ahead is the best way to avoid using them in some situations. I've seen guys in the CRJ-700 and -900 that ALWAYS use them, even when it seems there is no need. One other thing that relates to this is, if you are going 280-290 and a controller ask you to slow to 250, you don't need to pull the boards all the way out and slow in 5 seconds (I've seen that a lot in the NYC area) I don't think the ATC guy wants to see 250 on the next sweep of the radar. Power to idle in a CRJ will slow you down quick. Just an opinion. There are many techniques to flying different aircraft, stick to the company and manufacturer limits and standards, and use the techniques that work for you.

It's a fun plane to fly (CRJ). It sucks as a passenger. Give them the best ride you can (or care to), and be safe