WHEN BOB HUNT, Model Aviation’s
aeromodeling editor, called to tell me he
had a helicopter for me to review, I was
excited! I’ve not done a product review in
several years, and I like doing them. Bob
proceeded to tell me it was a small,
hardwired indoor helicopter—not what I
expected, but intriguing. I figured that this
machine would probably be along the lines
of a toy. Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
Packaging and Contents: The box arrived
a couple of days later at the office. I was
determined to wait until I got home to
open the box and look at the model.
Lunchtime rolled around and it was too
cold to go anywhere, so I could not resist
taking a look.
I was happy to see that this little
machine was a scale representation of a
full-scale Lama (the helicopter—not the
animal) and was manufactured by Hirobo:
a respected manufacturer of RC helicopters
and other fine equipment. Hirobo is well
known in the Fédération Aéronautique
Internationale competition circuit.
Hirobo calls this an XRB, which stands
for X-rotation blades. The model is nicely
displayed in the package. It is encased in a
snap-together plastic shell for protection,
the hardwired radio is behind the Lama,
and the other accessories (power supply,
manual, training gear—yes training
gear!—tools, and three spare blade sets)
are in other parts of the packaging, so be
sure to look for it all carefully.
I cautiously removed the helicopter
from the clear packaging, but even so I
found that the tail rotor (nonfunctional)
was broken off of its shaft, and one upper
main blade had a small nick in it. I know I
did not damage these parts removing the
machine from the packaging, so it must
have happened in transit. I decided not to
replace the damaged blade at that time, and
I was able to smooth the nick with my
finger to what appeared to be an acceptable
amount.
The Machine: The Lama has a bubble
canopy and open-frame type tailboom
setup; it is nicely detailed. The overall
length is 15 inches, and the main rotor
length is 14 inches. The model has two sets
of rotor blades mounted to an upper and
lower rotor head. The blades are driven by
two separate small electric motors through
reduction gearing turning coaxial main
shafts.
The upper rotor head is topped by a
paddleless flybar. The flybar uses two
rubber-covered weights on each end
instead of the normal paddles and weights;
this system provides the stability for the
upper head.
There are two stripped-down servos
that operate the swashplate on the lower
rotor head, which controls the cyclic
functions. Only the lower head moves to
control cyclic. The rotor system is
counter-rotating, allowing the machine to
operate without a tail rotor to counteract
the torque from the rotor system. This
gives the machine a unique level hover
instead of the normal hover tilted to one
side of a single rotor system. Hirobo
provides a nice description of this system
on the box and in the manual. It is
interesting reading.
The head is fixed pitch. The rudder
(tail rotor if it had one) must be controlled
by magic. Just kidding. Actually a small
piezo gyro creates a differential in the rpm
of the two rotor heads, causing the tail to
remain in control by the ensuing torque.
The transmitter looks and feels like a
standard RC transmitter; it includes
normal trim levers and even has subtrims
behind rubber plugs. (You should never
need to adjust the subtrims; if you do, you
need to read the manual because
something is probably out of adjustment).
The transmitter attaches to a power
supply that plugs into an AC outlet. A
Steve Kaluf
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Hirobo XRB Lama
Pros:
• Flies like a model helicopter
• Spare parts included
• Manual (See text.)
• Scale appearance
Cons:
• Manual (See text.)
• Power cord (It would be great to fly
it by normal Radio Control [RC].)
• Trim shifts slightly as motors warm
up.
The Hirobo XRB (X-rotation blades) is a nicely detailed representation of the full-scale
Lama. The body of this machine simply snaps together.
lightweight 11-foot, 6-inch cable comes
out where the antenna would normally be
and runs to the underside of the helicopter.
This is clipped to the center of gravity
then continues on into the cockpit area,
where it plugs into a connector to supply
the power and control inputs to the
aircraft. The Lama is 99% ready to fly out
of the box.
August 2003 47
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 47
48 MODEL AVIATION
The Instruction Manual: I firmly believe in reading products’
instruction manuals. Throughout the years I’ve learned that the
people who write them typically know what they are talking
about; this is the case with the Lama’s manual. It contains all
sorts of information you are going to want to know no matter how
experienced a helicopter pilot you are.
The Lama is unlike (as far as I know) any other model
helicopter out there. You will run into things with this machine
that will stump you when they happen unless you’ve read the
instruction booklet. If you’ve digested the manual, you’ll know
exactly what is going on and how to fix it.
The methods that most helicopter pilots use for other machines
are not necessarily the same as for this model. The manual is
written in Japanese and English with diagrams interspersed. This
makes it hard to read at times, but the English is well written and
the needed information is there once you get around the layout.
Initial Setup: Once I had finished reading the manual, it was time
to power up the model to see if the controls worked. The Lama
has a unique safety feature that prevents the motors from
starting—no matter what position the throttle stick is in—unless
you push a button first.
This allows you to make adjustments with the servo power on
without worrying about the main motors starting. It also keeps
you from turning the transmitter on with the throttle stick at full,
only to have the machine bounce off of the ceiling.
I turned on the transmitter and moved the cyclic controls. The
swashplate seemed to be moving in the directions I was used to
seeing. There was no way to tell if they were in trim or not, but
the manual cautions that the trims are factory-set for the first
flight before shipping, so I left well enough alone.
The next step was to look at the blade tracking. Each blade
must be adjusted to “fly” in the same plane as the other blade. If it
doesn’t, you’ll get vibration and the machine can be difficult to
control. Instead of the normal two-blade setup, you have four
blades to look at on this little machine. To make blade
identification easier I used a marker to color the tip of one blade
each on the upper and lower sets. The manual recommends doing
that.
I placed the machine on the floor, pushed the rotor-power
arming button, and slowly advanced the throttle. The manual
states that you can hold the model in your hand to do this, but I
guess I’m too used to larger machines and looking at them in a
hover. (I’ve since held the machine in my hand with no problem.)
I advanced the throttle to just less than takeoff power and
looked at the tracking. The lower blade set looked good, but the
upper set (with the nick) was slightly off. I decided that it was not
much and to get it into a hover to see how it looked there.
First Flight: Before I get into the details of the first flight, it
The basic components of the kit (less the training gear) are
shown. Even the required tools are included!
XRB has two sets of rotor blades mounted to upper, lower rotor
head. Two motors through reduction gearing drive blades.
XRB in a stable hover. Cord exiting bottom does not seem to
have any ill effects on flight—unless you step on it!
This gives you an idea of the XRB’s size; a JR Ergo 60 is
hanging from the ceiling above it and the author.
might be helpful for you to know my helicopter experience level.
I’m currently flying an Ergo 60 Sport with a Futaba 9C
transmitter guiding it. I’ll be entering my first Class I competition
this year. Last year I began forward flight; I’m not doing anything
Flight shots by Liz Helms; static shots by the author
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 48
August 2003 49
fancy at this time. I’m comfortable in
almost any hovering attitude except nosein.
I’ve built four helicopters, and all have
flown well right off the bench. I attribute
this to following the instructions/assembly
manuals implicitly. Although I’m no 3-D
pilot, I can do the basics. I’d probably
characterize myself as a low-end
intermediate pilot. I’ve flown RC fixed
wing since the early 1970s and had flown
Control Line for many years before that.
The Lama’s first flight took place in
my office (remember that it was cold
outside) in a very limited space. I slowly
advanced the throttle until the helicopter
was light on the skids. With a touch more
throttle it was approximately three inches
off the carpet. At this height the machine
is still in its own rotorwash and is a little
tough to control.
I did this a couple more times then
lifted it to roughly a foot off the ground.
Everything stabilized at this height.
Rudder trim was a touch off, but not
enough to worry about. I was happy; this
was starting to be really fun!
I set the Lama back down to check
everything out and let the fingers rest a little.
Everything still looked good, so up we went
again—this time to roughly chest height. The
machine locks in nice at this altitude. The tail
will drift slightly with a rapid application of
power, but it is easily corrected.
Cyclic is gentle but has plenty of
authority for flying at the end of an 111⁄2-
foot cord. Rudder input was surprisingly
authoritative and precise, and a full
pirouette would have been no problem (but
I was too chicken to try it).
Landings are easy, but again, since the
machine gets in its own rotorwash when
low and is a bit unstable, I’ve learned that
landing moving forward or pulling the
power off fairly fast works best when
trying to hit a specific spot.
The dangling cord does not seem to
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 49
50 MODEL AVIATION
have too much effect on the machine
unless you reach the end of it or step on it.
Be ready to put in some back stick (upelevator
for the plank guys) to counteract if
you do step on the cord or reach its end.
As the motors heat up, the rudder will
begin to drift. The manual warns that 20
minutes is about it for the motors without
allowing them to cool down. If you don’t
heed the early signs of this, you’ll be doing
uncontrolled pirouettes and trying to get
the model on the ground without hitting
something. The machine does not tilt to the
side as does a full-size RC helicopter, so it
is not too hard to get down.
Lunch was over after all of that, so I
had to wait to get home to do any more
flying. I felt pretty good; the model had
probably been in the air a total of 30
minutes, and everything was still in one
piece.
More Flights: When I got home that day I
had to demonstrate the Lama for my 12-
year-old son. I set up in our family room.
Again there was not much space, and there
were many other hazards—such as dogs
and cats! I did my best to chase everyone
out of the room before flying.
I lifted the model off from the floor and
hovered it to a large footstool. Once over
it, I was able to set the helicopter down on
the stool. Lifting off again, and feeling a
little cocky, I flew the Lama forward to a
couch, and the cord went in between the
two seat cushions. Oops! This was a
problem. The machine was only roughly
six inches up, and the sudden stop caused it
to fall sideways into the armrest.
I cut the power as soon as the rotor
blades hit the armrest. One blade had
broken, but there were no other problems. I
quickly bolted another blade on. Checking
the tracking, I noticed that it was off a bit.
An adjustment of the link controlling this
head brought the tracking back in line. The
manual covers this operation in detail, so
don’t forget to consult it.
I wanted to try some slow circuits
around the room. A 90° pirouette to the
right and a slight push into forward flight
sent the model off to the right. You need to
watch the cord length, but it’s not much of
a problem in general since the cord comes
out of where the antenna would normally
be, making it easy to see.
At the end of the flight to the right I put
in a little left rudder, left aileron, and
forward elevator (down to maintain
forward flight) to effect a more standard
turn. This produced a nice, slow turn with
approximately a 1-foot radius.
It’s interesting that the machine does
not bank into the turn; this is because of the
counter-rotating blade system’s inherent
desire to stay in a stable position. I’m sure
that if the machine was able to be flown
aggressively you could cause it to bank.
However, that is probably not going to
happen in a tight room at the end of an 11-
foot cord.
The same type of turn was repeated on
the left side, completing the circuit. This
type of flight is easy with the Lama
because of its gentle nature.
I’ve put many flights on the Lama, and I
continue to have a great deal of fun with
it. A few things crop up the more you fly
it, but they are easy to correct or adjust.
The instruction booklet does cover
everything, and this machine is different
from what most of us have experienced.
I’ve yet to encounter a situation that I’ve
not resolved within three minutes, and that
includes consultation time with the
manual.
One strange scenario that crops up—
normally after a blade strike—is that the
rudder control will begin to drift
uncontrolled. I must admit that I did not
follow my own recommendation (check
the manual!), and I tried to correct with
trim and subtrim. It took me roughly three
minutes to realize that I was not doing it
right, so I took my own advice and looked
to see what the instructions contained
regarding this condition.
Lo and behold, there it was! To fix this
you adjust the pitch on the upper rotor
head. Each blade holder has a small screw
that allows you to adjust that blade’s
pitch. This must be done equally to each
blade. I made a small mark on the
screwdriver (which is supplied) so that I
could tell how far I turned it.
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08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 50
52 MODEL AVIATION
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The manual recommends changing the
pitch a half turn at a time. I ended up
turning the screws in approximately oneand-
a-half turns (a half turn at a time) to
correct the trim. If you think about this
adjustment, it is logical. The two sets of
blades must be set to the same pitch to
maintain the same rpm. So when one is out
of adjustment, you get an out-of-trim
situation with the rudder.
The blades used on the Lama are
constructed from lightweight foam; as a
result, they are safe but fairly fragile. The
model is supplied with three complete sets.
Eventually you will hit a blade or two. I’ve
run the model into a couch, a desk, and a
fabric-covered wing, and no damage was
done to anything I hit—not even a mark.
The blade broke, but nothing else did. I
suspect that it would hurt if you put a hand
in the blades, but I doubt that any real
damage would be done.
You can increase the sensitivity of
control by changing the linkage on the top
rotor head from one side to the other. This
does give you more control authority, but it
is not overly sensitive and it’s still smooth.
I’ve heard of others also taking the flybar
weights off to really up the control
authority, but I haven’t tried that yet.
The Hirobo XRB Lama is a great little
helicopter. This machine is no more a toy
than a full-size RC helicopter; it does take
some skill to fly it. However, by the same
token it is not hard to fly.
The best thing about the Lama is that it
really flies like a model helicopter. Its
fixed pitch is so stable that you’ll think you
have collective pitch. There is none of the
“throttle jockeying” normally associated
with trying to hold a fixed-pitch machine at
a constant altitude.
The damage done, in even the most
severe crash, is next to nothing. This
means that the “pucker factor” of trying to
fly a helicopter or trying maneuvers or
flight attitudes such as a nose-in hover is
low. The machine’s inherent stability
makes it easy to fly. In many ways it
replaces the simulator time many of us use
to try such things as a nose-in hover.
Certainly you won’t be trying 3-D flight
with this model.
The Lama also fulfills a need for those
of us in cold climates; with it we can fly
anytime we want. I love to hover, and this
helicopter is really good at that. My next
step will be to allow my 12-year-old son
some stick time and see how he progresses
with it. (I’ll stock up on blades first!)
The Hirobo XRB Lama sells for
approximately $300 and is distributed in
the US by Altech Marketing, which is a
division of Model Rectifier Corporation.
I’ve seen this helicopter listed between
$270 and slightly more than $300. It is a
super little machine that I feel anyone
interested in helicopters (regardless of skill
level) will enjoy. MA
(Editor’s note: Altech Marketing has
asked us to include the following
maintenance advice. For long-term
preventive care of the XRB Lama, oil the
exposed motor bushing before flying for
the day or if you get a sudden drifting after
extended periods of time. If the helicopter
does not sound as smooth as it did at first,
oil the motors as well.)
Distributor:
Model Rectifier Corporation
Box 6312
Edison NJ 08837
(732) 225-2100
www.modelrectifier.com
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:14 pm Page 52
Edition: Model Aviation - 2003/08
Page Numbers: 47,48,49,50,52
Edition: Model Aviation - 2003/08
Page Numbers: 47,48,49,50,52
WHEN BOB HUNT, Model Aviation’s
aeromodeling editor, called to tell me he
had a helicopter for me to review, I was
excited! I’ve not done a product review in
several years, and I like doing them. Bob
proceeded to tell me it was a small,
hardwired indoor helicopter—not what I
expected, but intriguing. I figured that this
machine would probably be along the lines
of a toy. Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
Packaging and Contents: The box arrived
a couple of days later at the office. I was
determined to wait until I got home to
open the box and look at the model.
Lunchtime rolled around and it was too
cold to go anywhere, so I could not resist
taking a look.
I was happy to see that this little
machine was a scale representation of a
full-scale Lama (the helicopter—not the
animal) and was manufactured by Hirobo:
a respected manufacturer of RC helicopters
and other fine equipment. Hirobo is well
known in the Fédération Aéronautique
Internationale competition circuit.
Hirobo calls this an XRB, which stands
for X-rotation blades. The model is nicely
displayed in the package. It is encased in a
snap-together plastic shell for protection,
the hardwired radio is behind the Lama,
and the other accessories (power supply,
manual, training gear—yes training
gear!—tools, and three spare blade sets)
are in other parts of the packaging, so be
sure to look for it all carefully.
I cautiously removed the helicopter
from the clear packaging, but even so I
found that the tail rotor (nonfunctional)
was broken off of its shaft, and one upper
main blade had a small nick in it. I know I
did not damage these parts removing the
machine from the packaging, so it must
have happened in transit. I decided not to
replace the damaged blade at that time, and
I was able to smooth the nick with my
finger to what appeared to be an acceptable
amount.
The Machine: The Lama has a bubble
canopy and open-frame type tailboom
setup; it is nicely detailed. The overall
length is 15 inches, and the main rotor
length is 14 inches. The model has two sets
of rotor blades mounted to an upper and
lower rotor head. The blades are driven by
two separate small electric motors through
reduction gearing turning coaxial main
shafts.
The upper rotor head is topped by a
paddleless flybar. The flybar uses two
rubber-covered weights on each end
instead of the normal paddles and weights;
this system provides the stability for the
upper head.
There are two stripped-down servos
that operate the swashplate on the lower
rotor head, which controls the cyclic
functions. Only the lower head moves to
control cyclic. The rotor system is
counter-rotating, allowing the machine to
operate without a tail rotor to counteract
the torque from the rotor system. This
gives the machine a unique level hover
instead of the normal hover tilted to one
side of a single rotor system. Hirobo
provides a nice description of this system
on the box and in the manual. It is
interesting reading.
The head is fixed pitch. The rudder
(tail rotor if it had one) must be controlled
by magic. Just kidding. Actually a small
piezo gyro creates a differential in the rpm
of the two rotor heads, causing the tail to
remain in control by the ensuing torque.
The transmitter looks and feels like a
standard RC transmitter; it includes
normal trim levers and even has subtrims
behind rubber plugs. (You should never
need to adjust the subtrims; if you do, you
need to read the manual because
something is probably out of adjustment).
The transmitter attaches to a power
supply that plugs into an AC outlet. A
Steve Kaluf
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Hirobo XRB Lama
Pros:
• Flies like a model helicopter
• Spare parts included
• Manual (See text.)
• Scale appearance
Cons:
• Manual (See text.)
• Power cord (It would be great to fly
it by normal Radio Control [RC].)
• Trim shifts slightly as motors warm
up.
The Hirobo XRB (X-rotation blades) is a nicely detailed representation of the full-scale
Lama. The body of this machine simply snaps together.
lightweight 11-foot, 6-inch cable comes
out where the antenna would normally be
and runs to the underside of the helicopter.
This is clipped to the center of gravity
then continues on into the cockpit area,
where it plugs into a connector to supply
the power and control inputs to the
aircraft. The Lama is 99% ready to fly out
of the box.
August 2003 47
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 47
48 MODEL AVIATION
The Instruction Manual: I firmly believe in reading products’
instruction manuals. Throughout the years I’ve learned that the
people who write them typically know what they are talking
about; this is the case with the Lama’s manual. It contains all
sorts of information you are going to want to know no matter how
experienced a helicopter pilot you are.
The Lama is unlike (as far as I know) any other model
helicopter out there. You will run into things with this machine
that will stump you when they happen unless you’ve read the
instruction booklet. If you’ve digested the manual, you’ll know
exactly what is going on and how to fix it.
The methods that most helicopter pilots use for other machines
are not necessarily the same as for this model. The manual is
written in Japanese and English with diagrams interspersed. This
makes it hard to read at times, but the English is well written and
the needed information is there once you get around the layout.
Initial Setup: Once I had finished reading the manual, it was time
to power up the model to see if the controls worked. The Lama
has a unique safety feature that prevents the motors from
starting—no matter what position the throttle stick is in—unless
you push a button first.
This allows you to make adjustments with the servo power on
without worrying about the main motors starting. It also keeps
you from turning the transmitter on with the throttle stick at full,
only to have the machine bounce off of the ceiling.
I turned on the transmitter and moved the cyclic controls. The
swashplate seemed to be moving in the directions I was used to
seeing. There was no way to tell if they were in trim or not, but
the manual cautions that the trims are factory-set for the first
flight before shipping, so I left well enough alone.
The next step was to look at the blade tracking. Each blade
must be adjusted to “fly” in the same plane as the other blade. If it
doesn’t, you’ll get vibration and the machine can be difficult to
control. Instead of the normal two-blade setup, you have four
blades to look at on this little machine. To make blade
identification easier I used a marker to color the tip of one blade
each on the upper and lower sets. The manual recommends doing
that.
I placed the machine on the floor, pushed the rotor-power
arming button, and slowly advanced the throttle. The manual
states that you can hold the model in your hand to do this, but I
guess I’m too used to larger machines and looking at them in a
hover. (I’ve since held the machine in my hand with no problem.)
I advanced the throttle to just less than takeoff power and
looked at the tracking. The lower blade set looked good, but the
upper set (with the nick) was slightly off. I decided that it was not
much and to get it into a hover to see how it looked there.
First Flight: Before I get into the details of the first flight, it
The basic components of the kit (less the training gear) are
shown. Even the required tools are included!
XRB has two sets of rotor blades mounted to upper, lower rotor
head. Two motors through reduction gearing drive blades.
XRB in a stable hover. Cord exiting bottom does not seem to
have any ill effects on flight—unless you step on it!
This gives you an idea of the XRB’s size; a JR Ergo 60 is
hanging from the ceiling above it and the author.
might be helpful for you to know my helicopter experience level.
I’m currently flying an Ergo 60 Sport with a Futaba 9C
transmitter guiding it. I’ll be entering my first Class I competition
this year. Last year I began forward flight; I’m not doing anything
Flight shots by Liz Helms; static shots by the author
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 48
August 2003 49
fancy at this time. I’m comfortable in
almost any hovering attitude except nosein.
I’ve built four helicopters, and all have
flown well right off the bench. I attribute
this to following the instructions/assembly
manuals implicitly. Although I’m no 3-D
pilot, I can do the basics. I’d probably
characterize myself as a low-end
intermediate pilot. I’ve flown RC fixed
wing since the early 1970s and had flown
Control Line for many years before that.
The Lama’s first flight took place in
my office (remember that it was cold
outside) in a very limited space. I slowly
advanced the throttle until the helicopter
was light on the skids. With a touch more
throttle it was approximately three inches
off the carpet. At this height the machine
is still in its own rotorwash and is a little
tough to control.
I did this a couple more times then
lifted it to roughly a foot off the ground.
Everything stabilized at this height.
Rudder trim was a touch off, but not
enough to worry about. I was happy; this
was starting to be really fun!
I set the Lama back down to check
everything out and let the fingers rest a little.
Everything still looked good, so up we went
again—this time to roughly chest height. The
machine locks in nice at this altitude. The tail
will drift slightly with a rapid application of
power, but it is easily corrected.
Cyclic is gentle but has plenty of
authority for flying at the end of an 111⁄2-
foot cord. Rudder input was surprisingly
authoritative and precise, and a full
pirouette would have been no problem (but
I was too chicken to try it).
Landings are easy, but again, since the
machine gets in its own rotorwash when
low and is a bit unstable, I’ve learned that
landing moving forward or pulling the
power off fairly fast works best when
trying to hit a specific spot.
The dangling cord does not seem to
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 49
50 MODEL AVIATION
have too much effect on the machine
unless you reach the end of it or step on it.
Be ready to put in some back stick (upelevator
for the plank guys) to counteract if
you do step on the cord or reach its end.
As the motors heat up, the rudder will
begin to drift. The manual warns that 20
minutes is about it for the motors without
allowing them to cool down. If you don’t
heed the early signs of this, you’ll be doing
uncontrolled pirouettes and trying to get
the model on the ground without hitting
something. The machine does not tilt to the
side as does a full-size RC helicopter, so it
is not too hard to get down.
Lunch was over after all of that, so I
had to wait to get home to do any more
flying. I felt pretty good; the model had
probably been in the air a total of 30
minutes, and everything was still in one
piece.
More Flights: When I got home that day I
had to demonstrate the Lama for my 12-
year-old son. I set up in our family room.
Again there was not much space, and there
were many other hazards—such as dogs
and cats! I did my best to chase everyone
out of the room before flying.
I lifted the model off from the floor and
hovered it to a large footstool. Once over
it, I was able to set the helicopter down on
the stool. Lifting off again, and feeling a
little cocky, I flew the Lama forward to a
couch, and the cord went in between the
two seat cushions. Oops! This was a
problem. The machine was only roughly
six inches up, and the sudden stop caused it
to fall sideways into the armrest.
I cut the power as soon as the rotor
blades hit the armrest. One blade had
broken, but there were no other problems. I
quickly bolted another blade on. Checking
the tracking, I noticed that it was off a bit.
An adjustment of the link controlling this
head brought the tracking back in line. The
manual covers this operation in detail, so
don’t forget to consult it.
I wanted to try some slow circuits
around the room. A 90° pirouette to the
right and a slight push into forward flight
sent the model off to the right. You need to
watch the cord length, but it’s not much of
a problem in general since the cord comes
out of where the antenna would normally
be, making it easy to see.
At the end of the flight to the right I put
in a little left rudder, left aileron, and
forward elevator (down to maintain
forward flight) to effect a more standard
turn. This produced a nice, slow turn with
approximately a 1-foot radius.
It’s interesting that the machine does
not bank into the turn; this is because of the
counter-rotating blade system’s inherent
desire to stay in a stable position. I’m sure
that if the machine was able to be flown
aggressively you could cause it to bank.
However, that is probably not going to
happen in a tight room at the end of an 11-
foot cord.
The same type of turn was repeated on
the left side, completing the circuit. This
type of flight is easy with the Lama
because of its gentle nature.
I’ve put many flights on the Lama, and I
continue to have a great deal of fun with
it. A few things crop up the more you fly
it, but they are easy to correct or adjust.
The instruction booklet does cover
everything, and this machine is different
from what most of us have experienced.
I’ve yet to encounter a situation that I’ve
not resolved within three minutes, and that
includes consultation time with the
manual.
One strange scenario that crops up—
normally after a blade strike—is that the
rudder control will begin to drift
uncontrolled. I must admit that I did not
follow my own recommendation (check
the manual!), and I tried to correct with
trim and subtrim. It took me roughly three
minutes to realize that I was not doing it
right, so I took my own advice and looked
to see what the instructions contained
regarding this condition.
Lo and behold, there it was! To fix this
you adjust the pitch on the upper rotor
head. Each blade holder has a small screw
that allows you to adjust that blade’s
pitch. This must be done equally to each
blade. I made a small mark on the
screwdriver (which is supplied) so that I
could tell how far I turned it.
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08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 50
52 MODEL AVIATION
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The manual recommends changing the
pitch a half turn at a time. I ended up
turning the screws in approximately oneand-
a-half turns (a half turn at a time) to
correct the trim. If you think about this
adjustment, it is logical. The two sets of
blades must be set to the same pitch to
maintain the same rpm. So when one is out
of adjustment, you get an out-of-trim
situation with the rudder.
The blades used on the Lama are
constructed from lightweight foam; as a
result, they are safe but fairly fragile. The
model is supplied with three complete sets.
Eventually you will hit a blade or two. I’ve
run the model into a couch, a desk, and a
fabric-covered wing, and no damage was
done to anything I hit—not even a mark.
The blade broke, but nothing else did. I
suspect that it would hurt if you put a hand
in the blades, but I doubt that any real
damage would be done.
You can increase the sensitivity of
control by changing the linkage on the top
rotor head from one side to the other. This
does give you more control authority, but it
is not overly sensitive and it’s still smooth.
I’ve heard of others also taking the flybar
weights off to really up the control
authority, but I haven’t tried that yet.
The Hirobo XRB Lama is a great little
helicopter. This machine is no more a toy
than a full-size RC helicopter; it does take
some skill to fly it. However, by the same
token it is not hard to fly.
The best thing about the Lama is that it
really flies like a model helicopter. Its
fixed pitch is so stable that you’ll think you
have collective pitch. There is none of the
“throttle jockeying” normally associated
with trying to hold a fixed-pitch machine at
a constant altitude.
The damage done, in even the most
severe crash, is next to nothing. This
means that the “pucker factor” of trying to
fly a helicopter or trying maneuvers or
flight attitudes such as a nose-in hover is
low. The machine’s inherent stability
makes it easy to fly. In many ways it
replaces the simulator time many of us use
to try such things as a nose-in hover.
Certainly you won’t be trying 3-D flight
with this model.
The Lama also fulfills a need for those
of us in cold climates; with it we can fly
anytime we want. I love to hover, and this
helicopter is really good at that. My next
step will be to allow my 12-year-old son
some stick time and see how he progresses
with it. (I’ll stock up on blades first!)
The Hirobo XRB Lama sells for
approximately $300 and is distributed in
the US by Altech Marketing, which is a
division of Model Rectifier Corporation.
I’ve seen this helicopter listed between
$270 and slightly more than $300. It is a
super little machine that I feel anyone
interested in helicopters (regardless of skill
level) will enjoy. MA
(Editor’s note: Altech Marketing has
asked us to include the following
maintenance advice. For long-term
preventive care of the XRB Lama, oil the
exposed motor bushing before flying for
the day or if you get a sudden drifting after
extended periods of time. If the helicopter
does not sound as smooth as it did at first,
oil the motors as well.)
Distributor:
Model Rectifier Corporation
Box 6312
Edison NJ 08837
(732) 225-2100
www.modelrectifier.com
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:14 pm Page 52
Edition: Model Aviation - 2003/08
Page Numbers: 47,48,49,50,52
WHEN BOB HUNT, Model Aviation’s
aeromodeling editor, called to tell me he
had a helicopter for me to review, I was
excited! I’ve not done a product review in
several years, and I like doing them. Bob
proceeded to tell me it was a small,
hardwired indoor helicopter—not what I
expected, but intriguing. I figured that this
machine would probably be along the lines
of a toy. Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
Packaging and Contents: The box arrived
a couple of days later at the office. I was
determined to wait until I got home to
open the box and look at the model.
Lunchtime rolled around and it was too
cold to go anywhere, so I could not resist
taking a look.
I was happy to see that this little
machine was a scale representation of a
full-scale Lama (the helicopter—not the
animal) and was manufactured by Hirobo:
a respected manufacturer of RC helicopters
and other fine equipment. Hirobo is well
known in the Fédération Aéronautique
Internationale competition circuit.
Hirobo calls this an XRB, which stands
for X-rotation blades. The model is nicely
displayed in the package. It is encased in a
snap-together plastic shell for protection,
the hardwired radio is behind the Lama,
and the other accessories (power supply,
manual, training gear—yes training
gear!—tools, and three spare blade sets)
are in other parts of the packaging, so be
sure to look for it all carefully.
I cautiously removed the helicopter
from the clear packaging, but even so I
found that the tail rotor (nonfunctional)
was broken off of its shaft, and one upper
main blade had a small nick in it. I know I
did not damage these parts removing the
machine from the packaging, so it must
have happened in transit. I decided not to
replace the damaged blade at that time, and
I was able to smooth the nick with my
finger to what appeared to be an acceptable
amount.
The Machine: The Lama has a bubble
canopy and open-frame type tailboom
setup; it is nicely detailed. The overall
length is 15 inches, and the main rotor
length is 14 inches. The model has two sets
of rotor blades mounted to an upper and
lower rotor head. The blades are driven by
two separate small electric motors through
reduction gearing turning coaxial main
shafts.
The upper rotor head is topped by a
paddleless flybar. The flybar uses two
rubber-covered weights on each end
instead of the normal paddles and weights;
this system provides the stability for the
upper head.
There are two stripped-down servos
that operate the swashplate on the lower
rotor head, which controls the cyclic
functions. Only the lower head moves to
control cyclic. The rotor system is
counter-rotating, allowing the machine to
operate without a tail rotor to counteract
the torque from the rotor system. This
gives the machine a unique level hover
instead of the normal hover tilted to one
side of a single rotor system. Hirobo
provides a nice description of this system
on the box and in the manual. It is
interesting reading.
The head is fixed pitch. The rudder
(tail rotor if it had one) must be controlled
by magic. Just kidding. Actually a small
piezo gyro creates a differential in the rpm
of the two rotor heads, causing the tail to
remain in control by the ensuing torque.
The transmitter looks and feels like a
standard RC transmitter; it includes
normal trim levers and even has subtrims
behind rubber plugs. (You should never
need to adjust the subtrims; if you do, you
need to read the manual because
something is probably out of adjustment).
The transmitter attaches to a power
supply that plugs into an AC outlet. A
Steve Kaluf
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Hirobo XRB Lama
Pros:
• Flies like a model helicopter
• Spare parts included
• Manual (See text.)
• Scale appearance
Cons:
• Manual (See text.)
• Power cord (It would be great to fly
it by normal Radio Control [RC].)
• Trim shifts slightly as motors warm
up.
The Hirobo XRB (X-rotation blades) is a nicely detailed representation of the full-scale
Lama. The body of this machine simply snaps together.
lightweight 11-foot, 6-inch cable comes
out where the antenna would normally be
and runs to the underside of the helicopter.
This is clipped to the center of gravity
then continues on into the cockpit area,
where it plugs into a connector to supply
the power and control inputs to the
aircraft. The Lama is 99% ready to fly out
of the box.
August 2003 47
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 47
48 MODEL AVIATION
The Instruction Manual: I firmly believe in reading products’
instruction manuals. Throughout the years I’ve learned that the
people who write them typically know what they are talking
about; this is the case with the Lama’s manual. It contains all
sorts of information you are going to want to know no matter how
experienced a helicopter pilot you are.
The Lama is unlike (as far as I know) any other model
helicopter out there. You will run into things with this machine
that will stump you when they happen unless you’ve read the
instruction booklet. If you’ve digested the manual, you’ll know
exactly what is going on and how to fix it.
The methods that most helicopter pilots use for other machines
are not necessarily the same as for this model. The manual is
written in Japanese and English with diagrams interspersed. This
makes it hard to read at times, but the English is well written and
the needed information is there once you get around the layout.
Initial Setup: Once I had finished reading the manual, it was time
to power up the model to see if the controls worked. The Lama
has a unique safety feature that prevents the motors from
starting—no matter what position the throttle stick is in—unless
you push a button first.
This allows you to make adjustments with the servo power on
without worrying about the main motors starting. It also keeps
you from turning the transmitter on with the throttle stick at full,
only to have the machine bounce off of the ceiling.
I turned on the transmitter and moved the cyclic controls. The
swashplate seemed to be moving in the directions I was used to
seeing. There was no way to tell if they were in trim or not, but
the manual cautions that the trims are factory-set for the first
flight before shipping, so I left well enough alone.
The next step was to look at the blade tracking. Each blade
must be adjusted to “fly” in the same plane as the other blade. If it
doesn’t, you’ll get vibration and the machine can be difficult to
control. Instead of the normal two-blade setup, you have four
blades to look at on this little machine. To make blade
identification easier I used a marker to color the tip of one blade
each on the upper and lower sets. The manual recommends doing
that.
I placed the machine on the floor, pushed the rotor-power
arming button, and slowly advanced the throttle. The manual
states that you can hold the model in your hand to do this, but I
guess I’m too used to larger machines and looking at them in a
hover. (I’ve since held the machine in my hand with no problem.)
I advanced the throttle to just less than takeoff power and
looked at the tracking. The lower blade set looked good, but the
upper set (with the nick) was slightly off. I decided that it was not
much and to get it into a hover to see how it looked there.
First Flight: Before I get into the details of the first flight, it
The basic components of the kit (less the training gear) are
shown. Even the required tools are included!
XRB has two sets of rotor blades mounted to upper, lower rotor
head. Two motors through reduction gearing drive blades.
XRB in a stable hover. Cord exiting bottom does not seem to
have any ill effects on flight—unless you step on it!
This gives you an idea of the XRB’s size; a JR Ergo 60 is
hanging from the ceiling above it and the author.
might be helpful for you to know my helicopter experience level.
I’m currently flying an Ergo 60 Sport with a Futaba 9C
transmitter guiding it. I’ll be entering my first Class I competition
this year. Last year I began forward flight; I’m not doing anything
Flight shots by Liz Helms; static shots by the author
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 48
August 2003 49
fancy at this time. I’m comfortable in
almost any hovering attitude except nosein.
I’ve built four helicopters, and all have
flown well right off the bench. I attribute
this to following the instructions/assembly
manuals implicitly. Although I’m no 3-D
pilot, I can do the basics. I’d probably
characterize myself as a low-end
intermediate pilot. I’ve flown RC fixed
wing since the early 1970s and had flown
Control Line for many years before that.
The Lama’s first flight took place in
my office (remember that it was cold
outside) in a very limited space. I slowly
advanced the throttle until the helicopter
was light on the skids. With a touch more
throttle it was approximately three inches
off the carpet. At this height the machine
is still in its own rotorwash and is a little
tough to control.
I did this a couple more times then
lifted it to roughly a foot off the ground.
Everything stabilized at this height.
Rudder trim was a touch off, but not
enough to worry about. I was happy; this
was starting to be really fun!
I set the Lama back down to check
everything out and let the fingers rest a little.
Everything still looked good, so up we went
again—this time to roughly chest height. The
machine locks in nice at this altitude. The tail
will drift slightly with a rapid application of
power, but it is easily corrected.
Cyclic is gentle but has plenty of
authority for flying at the end of an 111⁄2-
foot cord. Rudder input was surprisingly
authoritative and precise, and a full
pirouette would have been no problem (but
I was too chicken to try it).
Landings are easy, but again, since the
machine gets in its own rotorwash when
low and is a bit unstable, I’ve learned that
landing moving forward or pulling the
power off fairly fast works best when
trying to hit a specific spot.
The dangling cord does not seem to
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 49
50 MODEL AVIATION
have too much effect on the machine
unless you reach the end of it or step on it.
Be ready to put in some back stick (upelevator
for the plank guys) to counteract if
you do step on the cord or reach its end.
As the motors heat up, the rudder will
begin to drift. The manual warns that 20
minutes is about it for the motors without
allowing them to cool down. If you don’t
heed the early signs of this, you’ll be doing
uncontrolled pirouettes and trying to get
the model on the ground without hitting
something. The machine does not tilt to the
side as does a full-size RC helicopter, so it
is not too hard to get down.
Lunch was over after all of that, so I
had to wait to get home to do any more
flying. I felt pretty good; the model had
probably been in the air a total of 30
minutes, and everything was still in one
piece.
More Flights: When I got home that day I
had to demonstrate the Lama for my 12-
year-old son. I set up in our family room.
Again there was not much space, and there
were many other hazards—such as dogs
and cats! I did my best to chase everyone
out of the room before flying.
I lifted the model off from the floor and
hovered it to a large footstool. Once over
it, I was able to set the helicopter down on
the stool. Lifting off again, and feeling a
little cocky, I flew the Lama forward to a
couch, and the cord went in between the
two seat cushions. Oops! This was a
problem. The machine was only roughly
six inches up, and the sudden stop caused it
to fall sideways into the armrest.
I cut the power as soon as the rotor
blades hit the armrest. One blade had
broken, but there were no other problems. I
quickly bolted another blade on. Checking
the tracking, I noticed that it was off a bit.
An adjustment of the link controlling this
head brought the tracking back in line. The
manual covers this operation in detail, so
don’t forget to consult it.
I wanted to try some slow circuits
around the room. A 90° pirouette to the
right and a slight push into forward flight
sent the model off to the right. You need to
watch the cord length, but it’s not much of
a problem in general since the cord comes
out of where the antenna would normally
be, making it easy to see.
At the end of the flight to the right I put
in a little left rudder, left aileron, and
forward elevator (down to maintain
forward flight) to effect a more standard
turn. This produced a nice, slow turn with
approximately a 1-foot radius.
It’s interesting that the machine does
not bank into the turn; this is because of the
counter-rotating blade system’s inherent
desire to stay in a stable position. I’m sure
that if the machine was able to be flown
aggressively you could cause it to bank.
However, that is probably not going to
happen in a tight room at the end of an 11-
foot cord.
The same type of turn was repeated on
the left side, completing the circuit. This
type of flight is easy with the Lama
because of its gentle nature.
I’ve put many flights on the Lama, and I
continue to have a great deal of fun with
it. A few things crop up the more you fly
it, but they are easy to correct or adjust.
The instruction booklet does cover
everything, and this machine is different
from what most of us have experienced.
I’ve yet to encounter a situation that I’ve
not resolved within three minutes, and that
includes consultation time with the
manual.
One strange scenario that crops up—
normally after a blade strike—is that the
rudder control will begin to drift
uncontrolled. I must admit that I did not
follow my own recommendation (check
the manual!), and I tried to correct with
trim and subtrim. It took me roughly three
minutes to realize that I was not doing it
right, so I took my own advice and looked
to see what the instructions contained
regarding this condition.
Lo and behold, there it was! To fix this
you adjust the pitch on the upper rotor
head. Each blade holder has a small screw
that allows you to adjust that blade’s
pitch. This must be done equally to each
blade. I made a small mark on the
screwdriver (which is supplied) so that I
could tell how far I turned it.
MASTER
AIRSCREW
Windsor Propeller Co Inc
P.O. Box 250
Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-0250
www.masterairscrew.com
Wide, undercambered blades
are lightweight & thin
In sizes for geared & direct
drive 400 to 600 motors
(6” through 13”)
550 Motor, gearbox,
folding prop &
motor mount
combination!
Available in 3
Ratios (2.5. 3.0 & 3.5)
Great value at $44.95
550 Electric
Flight Pack
Other Accessories
Direct Drive prop adaptor for
550 and 400 motor shafts
550 & 400 7.2 volt motors
Aluminum motor mount
Wide, thin undercambered
blades for superior performance
For electric flight only
In 8 sizes from 10” - 13” dia.
Electric Only Series
ELECTRIC FLIGHT
NOW MORE SIZES!
Electric Wood
Propellers
Celebrating 25 Years in R/C
Gearboxes for
400 & 550 motors
For
longer flight
times
& greater climb
Compact, lightweight
design
In 3 ratios: 2.5, 3.0 or 3.5:1
NOW FOR 400’S!
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 50
52 MODEL AVIATION
PERFORMANCE SPECIALTIES
PO Box 3146 • Gardnerville, NV 89410
Phone: 775-265-7523 • Fax: 775-265-7522
Performance Specialties makes your 4 stroke installations
easier with a great variety of new mufflers
and elbows for YS and OS engines.
Our unique new "Twister" allows the
user to rotate the muffler
through 150 degrees then
lock it down in the desired
position. The elbows are
available in 30, 45,
75 and 90 degree
versions to fit
virtually any installation.
The muffler/elbow
combinations and
the "Twister" are
available for OS 70/91/120,
YS 53/63/91/120/140, and
Saito 65/80/91/100/120/150/
180 engines.
VISIT US AT WWW.PSPEC.COM.
DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME!
Take a look at the chart below. An UltraThrust
Muffler will add power without the hassle of tuned
pipes. No Hangers, No Couplers, No Problems!
Don’t limit your performance or your fun . . .
Fly with an UltraThrust Muffler.
Stock Ultra Thrust
Muffler Muffler
K&B 48 14,800 16,300
OS32 FX 15,500 16,500
OS40 FX 13,700 15,000
OS46 FX 14,400 15,800
OS46 SF 14,000 15,700
OS61 FX 11,700 13,000
OS91 FX 10,500 12,000
ST GS 40 13,600 15,000
ST GS 45 ABC 14,600 16,300
TT Pro 46 14,000 15,100
TT Pro 61 11,400 12,300
Webra 40 GT 13,800 15,200
Webra 50 GT 14,600 15,900
OS 32 FX tested on APC 9/6 prop. All 40-50’s tested on APC 10/6 prop. All 61’s on APC 11/7
prop. OS 91 FX on APC 13/8 prop. 15% Nitro Fuel. Your results may vary with local conditions.
ALSO
AVAILABLE
FOR OTHER
ENGINES
CALL
FOR
DETAILS!
Our Twister
lets you
position
the muffler
where YOU
want to!
PISTON/CYLINDER
ASSEMBLIES
Complete engine and muffler packages are available
from Performance Specialties.
ULTRATHRUST
MUFFLERS
NEED A LITTLE
ELBOW ROOM?
OUR TRUE CHROME PLATED PISTON/CYLINDER
ASSEMBLIES ARE GUARANTEED NOT TO PEEL!
• CUSTOM PORTING.
• TIMING OPTIONS
AVAILABLE ON
SOME VERSIONS.
• FACTORY
INSTALLATION
AVAILABLE.
For more information see our website – www.jtecrc.com
P.O. BOX 107, Circleville, New York 10919 • (845) 361-3660
Model Aircraft & Accessories
a division of RadioWave Hobby Industries.
J-TEC/RADIOWAVE
– Presents –
The “Ultimate” in
Aircraft & Accessories
Wingspan: 125"
Weight: 36 - 40 lbs.
Wing Area: 2775 sq.in.
Plug In Wings and Stab!
Covered in UltraCote!
40% EXTRA
330L ARF
All ARFs feature a
balsa/ply fuselage,
foam wing, stab &
turtledeck, glass cowl
& wheelpants.
30%
•
35%
•
40%
30%
•
35%
EXTRA 330 PANZL 330
Intro Price
$1495.00 plus delivery
42% GODFREY ULTIMATE
MADE
IN
USA!
The manual recommends changing the
pitch a half turn at a time. I ended up
turning the screws in approximately oneand-
a-half turns (a half turn at a time) to
correct the trim. If you think about this
adjustment, it is logical. The two sets of
blades must be set to the same pitch to
maintain the same rpm. So when one is out
of adjustment, you get an out-of-trim
situation with the rudder.
The blades used on the Lama are
constructed from lightweight foam; as a
result, they are safe but fairly fragile. The
model is supplied with three complete sets.
Eventually you will hit a blade or two. I’ve
run the model into a couch, a desk, and a
fabric-covered wing, and no damage was
done to anything I hit—not even a mark.
The blade broke, but nothing else did. I
suspect that it would hurt if you put a hand
in the blades, but I doubt that any real
damage would be done.
You can increase the sensitivity of
control by changing the linkage on the top
rotor head from one side to the other. This
does give you more control authority, but it
is not overly sensitive and it’s still smooth.
I’ve heard of others also taking the flybar
weights off to really up the control
authority, but I haven’t tried that yet.
The Hirobo XRB Lama is a great little
helicopter. This machine is no more a toy
than a full-size RC helicopter; it does take
some skill to fly it. However, by the same
token it is not hard to fly.
The best thing about the Lama is that it
really flies like a model helicopter. Its
fixed pitch is so stable that you’ll think you
have collective pitch. There is none of the
“throttle jockeying” normally associated
with trying to hold a fixed-pitch machine at
a constant altitude.
The damage done, in even the most
severe crash, is next to nothing. This
means that the “pucker factor” of trying to
fly a helicopter or trying maneuvers or
flight attitudes such as a nose-in hover is
low. The machine’s inherent stability
makes it easy to fly. In many ways it
replaces the simulator time many of us use
to try such things as a nose-in hover.
Certainly you won’t be trying 3-D flight
with this model.
The Lama also fulfills a need for those
of us in cold climates; with it we can fly
anytime we want. I love to hover, and this
helicopter is really good at that. My next
step will be to allow my 12-year-old son
some stick time and see how he progresses
with it. (I’ll stock up on blades first!)
The Hirobo XRB Lama sells for
approximately $300 and is distributed in
the US by Altech Marketing, which is a
division of Model Rectifier Corporation.
I’ve seen this helicopter listed between
$270 and slightly more than $300. It is a
super little machine that I feel anyone
interested in helicopters (regardless of skill
level) will enjoy. MA
(Editor’s note: Altech Marketing has
asked us to include the following
maintenance advice. For long-term
preventive care of the XRB Lama, oil the
exposed motor bushing before flying for
the day or if you get a sudden drifting after
extended periods of time. If the helicopter
does not sound as smooth as it did at first,
oil the motors as well.)
Distributor:
Model Rectifier Corporation
Box 6312
Edison NJ 08837
(732) 225-2100
www.modelrectifier.com
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:14 pm Page 52
Edition: Model Aviation - 2003/08
Page Numbers: 47,48,49,50,52
WHEN BOB HUNT, Model Aviation’s
aeromodeling editor, called to tell me he
had a helicopter for me to review, I was
excited! I’ve not done a product review in
several years, and I like doing them. Bob
proceeded to tell me it was a small,
hardwired indoor helicopter—not what I
expected, but intriguing. I figured that this
machine would probably be along the lines
of a toy. Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
Packaging and Contents: The box arrived
a couple of days later at the office. I was
determined to wait until I got home to
open the box and look at the model.
Lunchtime rolled around and it was too
cold to go anywhere, so I could not resist
taking a look.
I was happy to see that this little
machine was a scale representation of a
full-scale Lama (the helicopter—not the
animal) and was manufactured by Hirobo:
a respected manufacturer of RC helicopters
and other fine equipment. Hirobo is well
known in the Fédération Aéronautique
Internationale competition circuit.
Hirobo calls this an XRB, which stands
for X-rotation blades. The model is nicely
displayed in the package. It is encased in a
snap-together plastic shell for protection,
the hardwired radio is behind the Lama,
and the other accessories (power supply,
manual, training gear—yes training
gear!—tools, and three spare blade sets)
are in other parts of the packaging, so be
sure to look for it all carefully.
I cautiously removed the helicopter
from the clear packaging, but even so I
found that the tail rotor (nonfunctional)
was broken off of its shaft, and one upper
main blade had a small nick in it. I know I
did not damage these parts removing the
machine from the packaging, so it must
have happened in transit. I decided not to
replace the damaged blade at that time, and
I was able to smooth the nick with my
finger to what appeared to be an acceptable
amount.
The Machine: The Lama has a bubble
canopy and open-frame type tailboom
setup; it is nicely detailed. The overall
length is 15 inches, and the main rotor
length is 14 inches. The model has two sets
of rotor blades mounted to an upper and
lower rotor head. The blades are driven by
two separate small electric motors through
reduction gearing turning coaxial main
shafts.
The upper rotor head is topped by a
paddleless flybar. The flybar uses two
rubber-covered weights on each end
instead of the normal paddles and weights;
this system provides the stability for the
upper head.
There are two stripped-down servos
that operate the swashplate on the lower
rotor head, which controls the cyclic
functions. Only the lower head moves to
control cyclic. The rotor system is
counter-rotating, allowing the machine to
operate without a tail rotor to counteract
the torque from the rotor system. This
gives the machine a unique level hover
instead of the normal hover tilted to one
side of a single rotor system. Hirobo
provides a nice description of this system
on the box and in the manual. It is
interesting reading.
The head is fixed pitch. The rudder
(tail rotor if it had one) must be controlled
by magic. Just kidding. Actually a small
piezo gyro creates a differential in the rpm
of the two rotor heads, causing the tail to
remain in control by the ensuing torque.
The transmitter looks and feels like a
standard RC transmitter; it includes
normal trim levers and even has subtrims
behind rubber plugs. (You should never
need to adjust the subtrims; if you do, you
need to read the manual because
something is probably out of adjustment).
The transmitter attaches to a power
supply that plugs into an AC outlet. A
Steve Kaluf
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Hirobo XRB Lama
Pros:
• Flies like a model helicopter
• Spare parts included
• Manual (See text.)
• Scale appearance
Cons:
• Manual (See text.)
• Power cord (It would be great to fly
it by normal Radio Control [RC].)
• Trim shifts slightly as motors warm
up.
The Hirobo XRB (X-rotation blades) is a nicely detailed representation of the full-scale
Lama. The body of this machine simply snaps together.
lightweight 11-foot, 6-inch cable comes
out where the antenna would normally be
and runs to the underside of the helicopter.
This is clipped to the center of gravity
then continues on into the cockpit area,
where it plugs into a connector to supply
the power and control inputs to the
aircraft. The Lama is 99% ready to fly out
of the box.
August 2003 47
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 47
48 MODEL AVIATION
The Instruction Manual: I firmly believe in reading products’
instruction manuals. Throughout the years I’ve learned that the
people who write them typically know what they are talking
about; this is the case with the Lama’s manual. It contains all
sorts of information you are going to want to know no matter how
experienced a helicopter pilot you are.
The Lama is unlike (as far as I know) any other model
helicopter out there. You will run into things with this machine
that will stump you when they happen unless you’ve read the
instruction booklet. If you’ve digested the manual, you’ll know
exactly what is going on and how to fix it.
The methods that most helicopter pilots use for other machines
are not necessarily the same as for this model. The manual is
written in Japanese and English with diagrams interspersed. This
makes it hard to read at times, but the English is well written and
the needed information is there once you get around the layout.
Initial Setup: Once I had finished reading the manual, it was time
to power up the model to see if the controls worked. The Lama
has a unique safety feature that prevents the motors from
starting—no matter what position the throttle stick is in—unless
you push a button first.
This allows you to make adjustments with the servo power on
without worrying about the main motors starting. It also keeps
you from turning the transmitter on with the throttle stick at full,
only to have the machine bounce off of the ceiling.
I turned on the transmitter and moved the cyclic controls. The
swashplate seemed to be moving in the directions I was used to
seeing. There was no way to tell if they were in trim or not, but
the manual cautions that the trims are factory-set for the first
flight before shipping, so I left well enough alone.
The next step was to look at the blade tracking. Each blade
must be adjusted to “fly” in the same plane as the other blade. If it
doesn’t, you’ll get vibration and the machine can be difficult to
control. Instead of the normal two-blade setup, you have four
blades to look at on this little machine. To make blade
identification easier I used a marker to color the tip of one blade
each on the upper and lower sets. The manual recommends doing
that.
I placed the machine on the floor, pushed the rotor-power
arming button, and slowly advanced the throttle. The manual
states that you can hold the model in your hand to do this, but I
guess I’m too used to larger machines and looking at them in a
hover. (I’ve since held the machine in my hand with no problem.)
I advanced the throttle to just less than takeoff power and
looked at the tracking. The lower blade set looked good, but the
upper set (with the nick) was slightly off. I decided that it was not
much and to get it into a hover to see how it looked there.
First Flight: Before I get into the details of the first flight, it
The basic components of the kit (less the training gear) are
shown. Even the required tools are included!
XRB has two sets of rotor blades mounted to upper, lower rotor
head. Two motors through reduction gearing drive blades.
XRB in a stable hover. Cord exiting bottom does not seem to
have any ill effects on flight—unless you step on it!
This gives you an idea of the XRB’s size; a JR Ergo 60 is
hanging from the ceiling above it and the author.
might be helpful for you to know my helicopter experience level.
I’m currently flying an Ergo 60 Sport with a Futaba 9C
transmitter guiding it. I’ll be entering my first Class I competition
this year. Last year I began forward flight; I’m not doing anything
Flight shots by Liz Helms; static shots by the author
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 48
August 2003 49
fancy at this time. I’m comfortable in
almost any hovering attitude except nosein.
I’ve built four helicopters, and all have
flown well right off the bench. I attribute
this to following the instructions/assembly
manuals implicitly. Although I’m no 3-D
pilot, I can do the basics. I’d probably
characterize myself as a low-end
intermediate pilot. I’ve flown RC fixed
wing since the early 1970s and had flown
Control Line for many years before that.
The Lama’s first flight took place in
my office (remember that it was cold
outside) in a very limited space. I slowly
advanced the throttle until the helicopter
was light on the skids. With a touch more
throttle it was approximately three inches
off the carpet. At this height the machine
is still in its own rotorwash and is a little
tough to control.
I did this a couple more times then
lifted it to roughly a foot off the ground.
Everything stabilized at this height.
Rudder trim was a touch off, but not
enough to worry about. I was happy; this
was starting to be really fun!
I set the Lama back down to check
everything out and let the fingers rest a little.
Everything still looked good, so up we went
again—this time to roughly chest height. The
machine locks in nice at this altitude. The tail
will drift slightly with a rapid application of
power, but it is easily corrected.
Cyclic is gentle but has plenty of
authority for flying at the end of an 111⁄2-
foot cord. Rudder input was surprisingly
authoritative and precise, and a full
pirouette would have been no problem (but
I was too chicken to try it).
Landings are easy, but again, since the
machine gets in its own rotorwash when
low and is a bit unstable, I’ve learned that
landing moving forward or pulling the
power off fairly fast works best when
trying to hit a specific spot.
The dangling cord does not seem to
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 49
50 MODEL AVIATION
have too much effect on the machine
unless you reach the end of it or step on it.
Be ready to put in some back stick (upelevator
for the plank guys) to counteract if
you do step on the cord or reach its end.
As the motors heat up, the rudder will
begin to drift. The manual warns that 20
minutes is about it for the motors without
allowing them to cool down. If you don’t
heed the early signs of this, you’ll be doing
uncontrolled pirouettes and trying to get
the model on the ground without hitting
something. The machine does not tilt to the
side as does a full-size RC helicopter, so it
is not too hard to get down.
Lunch was over after all of that, so I
had to wait to get home to do any more
flying. I felt pretty good; the model had
probably been in the air a total of 30
minutes, and everything was still in one
piece.
More Flights: When I got home that day I
had to demonstrate the Lama for my 12-
year-old son. I set up in our family room.
Again there was not much space, and there
were many other hazards—such as dogs
and cats! I did my best to chase everyone
out of the room before flying.
I lifted the model off from the floor and
hovered it to a large footstool. Once over
it, I was able to set the helicopter down on
the stool. Lifting off again, and feeling a
little cocky, I flew the Lama forward to a
couch, and the cord went in between the
two seat cushions. Oops! This was a
problem. The machine was only roughly
six inches up, and the sudden stop caused it
to fall sideways into the armrest.
I cut the power as soon as the rotor
blades hit the armrest. One blade had
broken, but there were no other problems. I
quickly bolted another blade on. Checking
the tracking, I noticed that it was off a bit.
An adjustment of the link controlling this
head brought the tracking back in line. The
manual covers this operation in detail, so
don’t forget to consult it.
I wanted to try some slow circuits
around the room. A 90° pirouette to the
right and a slight push into forward flight
sent the model off to the right. You need to
watch the cord length, but it’s not much of
a problem in general since the cord comes
out of where the antenna would normally
be, making it easy to see.
At the end of the flight to the right I put
in a little left rudder, left aileron, and
forward elevator (down to maintain
forward flight) to effect a more standard
turn. This produced a nice, slow turn with
approximately a 1-foot radius.
It’s interesting that the machine does
not bank into the turn; this is because of the
counter-rotating blade system’s inherent
desire to stay in a stable position. I’m sure
that if the machine was able to be flown
aggressively you could cause it to bank.
However, that is probably not going to
happen in a tight room at the end of an 11-
foot cord.
The same type of turn was repeated on
the left side, completing the circuit. This
type of flight is easy with the Lama
because of its gentle nature.
I’ve put many flights on the Lama, and I
continue to have a great deal of fun with
it. A few things crop up the more you fly
it, but they are easy to correct or adjust.
The instruction booklet does cover
everything, and this machine is different
from what most of us have experienced.
I’ve yet to encounter a situation that I’ve
not resolved within three minutes, and that
includes consultation time with the
manual.
One strange scenario that crops up—
normally after a blade strike—is that the
rudder control will begin to drift
uncontrolled. I must admit that I did not
follow my own recommendation (check
the manual!), and I tried to correct with
trim and subtrim. It took me roughly three
minutes to realize that I was not doing it
right, so I took my own advice and looked
to see what the instructions contained
regarding this condition.
Lo and behold, there it was! To fix this
you adjust the pitch on the upper rotor
head. Each blade holder has a small screw
that allows you to adjust that blade’s
pitch. This must be done equally to each
blade. I made a small mark on the
screwdriver (which is supplied) so that I
could tell how far I turned it.
MASTER
AIRSCREW
Windsor Propeller Co Inc
P.O. Box 250
Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-0250
www.masterairscrew.com
Wide, undercambered blades
are lightweight & thin
In sizes for geared & direct
drive 400 to 600 motors
(6” through 13”)
550 Motor, gearbox,
folding prop &
motor mount
combination!
Available in 3
Ratios (2.5. 3.0 & 3.5)
Great value at $44.95
550 Electric
Flight Pack
Other Accessories
Direct Drive prop adaptor for
550 and 400 motor shafts
550 & 400 7.2 volt motors
Aluminum motor mount
Wide, thin undercambered
blades for superior performance
For electric flight only
In 8 sizes from 10” - 13” dia.
Electric Only Series
ELECTRIC FLIGHT
NOW MORE SIZES!
Electric Wood
Propellers
Celebrating 25 Years in R/C
Gearboxes for
400 & 550 motors
For
longer flight
times
& greater climb
Compact, lightweight
design
In 3 ratios: 2.5, 3.0 or 3.5:1
NOW FOR 400’S!
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 50
52 MODEL AVIATION
PERFORMANCE SPECIALTIES
PO Box 3146 • Gardnerville, NV 89410
Phone: 775-265-7523 • Fax: 775-265-7522
Performance Specialties makes your 4 stroke installations
easier with a great variety of new mufflers
and elbows for YS and OS engines.
Our unique new "Twister" allows the
user to rotate the muffler
through 150 degrees then
lock it down in the desired
position. The elbows are
available in 30, 45,
75 and 90 degree
versions to fit
virtually any installation.
The muffler/elbow
combinations and
the "Twister" are
available for OS 70/91/120,
YS 53/63/91/120/140, and
Saito 65/80/91/100/120/150/
180 engines.
VISIT US AT WWW.PSPEC.COM.
DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME!
Take a look at the chart below. An UltraThrust
Muffler will add power without the hassle of tuned
pipes. No Hangers, No Couplers, No Problems!
Don’t limit your performance or your fun . . .
Fly with an UltraThrust Muffler.
Stock Ultra Thrust
Muffler Muffler
K&B 48 14,800 16,300
OS32 FX 15,500 16,500
OS40 FX 13,700 15,000
OS46 FX 14,400 15,800
OS46 SF 14,000 15,700
OS61 FX 11,700 13,000
OS91 FX 10,500 12,000
ST GS 40 13,600 15,000
ST GS 45 ABC 14,600 16,300
TT Pro 46 14,000 15,100
TT Pro 61 11,400 12,300
Webra 40 GT 13,800 15,200
Webra 50 GT 14,600 15,900
OS 32 FX tested on APC 9/6 prop. All 40-50’s tested on APC 10/6 prop. All 61’s on APC 11/7
prop. OS 91 FX on APC 13/8 prop. 15% Nitro Fuel. Your results may vary with local conditions.
ALSO
AVAILABLE
FOR OTHER
ENGINES
CALL
FOR
DETAILS!
Our Twister
lets you
position
the muffler
where YOU
want to!
PISTON/CYLINDER
ASSEMBLIES
Complete engine and muffler packages are available
from Performance Specialties.
ULTRATHRUST
MUFFLERS
NEED A LITTLE
ELBOW ROOM?
OUR TRUE CHROME PLATED PISTON/CYLINDER
ASSEMBLIES ARE GUARANTEED NOT TO PEEL!
• CUSTOM PORTING.
• TIMING OPTIONS
AVAILABLE ON
SOME VERSIONS.
• FACTORY
INSTALLATION
AVAILABLE.
For more information see our website – www.jtecrc.com
P.O. BOX 107, Circleville, New York 10919 • (845) 361-3660
Model Aircraft & Accessories
a division of RadioWave Hobby Industries.
J-TEC/RADIOWAVE
– Presents –
The “Ultimate” in
Aircraft & Accessories
Wingspan: 125"
Weight: 36 - 40 lbs.
Wing Area: 2775 sq.in.
Plug In Wings and Stab!
Covered in UltraCote!
40% EXTRA
330L ARF
All ARFs feature a
balsa/ply fuselage,
foam wing, stab &
turtledeck, glass cowl
& wheelpants.
30%
•
35%
•
40%
30%
•
35%
EXTRA 330 PANZL 330
Intro Price
$1495.00 plus delivery
42% GODFREY ULTIMATE
MADE
IN
USA!
The manual recommends changing the
pitch a half turn at a time. I ended up
turning the screws in approximately oneand-
a-half turns (a half turn at a time) to
correct the trim. If you think about this
adjustment, it is logical. The two sets of
blades must be set to the same pitch to
maintain the same rpm. So when one is out
of adjustment, you get an out-of-trim
situation with the rudder.
The blades used on the Lama are
constructed from lightweight foam; as a
result, they are safe but fairly fragile. The
model is supplied with three complete sets.
Eventually you will hit a blade or two. I’ve
run the model into a couch, a desk, and a
fabric-covered wing, and no damage was
done to anything I hit—not even a mark.
The blade broke, but nothing else did. I
suspect that it would hurt if you put a hand
in the blades, but I doubt that any real
damage would be done.
You can increase the sensitivity of
control by changing the linkage on the top
rotor head from one side to the other. This
does give you more control authority, but it
is not overly sensitive and it’s still smooth.
I’ve heard of others also taking the flybar
weights off to really up the control
authority, but I haven’t tried that yet.
The Hirobo XRB Lama is a great little
helicopter. This machine is no more a toy
than a full-size RC helicopter; it does take
some skill to fly it. However, by the same
token it is not hard to fly.
The best thing about the Lama is that it
really flies like a model helicopter. Its
fixed pitch is so stable that you’ll think you
have collective pitch. There is none of the
“throttle jockeying” normally associated
with trying to hold a fixed-pitch machine at
a constant altitude.
The damage done, in even the most
severe crash, is next to nothing. This
means that the “pucker factor” of trying to
fly a helicopter or trying maneuvers or
flight attitudes such as a nose-in hover is
low. The machine’s inherent stability
makes it easy to fly. In many ways it
replaces the simulator time many of us use
to try such things as a nose-in hover.
Certainly you won’t be trying 3-D flight
with this model.
The Lama also fulfills a need for those
of us in cold climates; with it we can fly
anytime we want. I love to hover, and this
helicopter is really good at that. My next
step will be to allow my 12-year-old son
some stick time and see how he progresses
with it. (I’ll stock up on blades first!)
The Hirobo XRB Lama sells for
approximately $300 and is distributed in
the US by Altech Marketing, which is a
division of Model Rectifier Corporation.
I’ve seen this helicopter listed between
$270 and slightly more than $300. It is a
super little machine that I feel anyone
interested in helicopters (regardless of skill
level) will enjoy. MA
(Editor’s note: Altech Marketing has
asked us to include the following
maintenance advice. For long-term
preventive care of the XRB Lama, oil the
exposed motor bushing before flying for
the day or if you get a sudden drifting after
extended periods of time. If the helicopter
does not sound as smooth as it did at first,
oil the motors as well.)
Distributor:
Model Rectifier Corporation
Box 6312
Edison NJ 08837
(732) 225-2100
www.modelrectifier.com
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:14 pm Page 52
Edition: Model Aviation - 2003/08
Page Numbers: 47,48,49,50,52
WHEN BOB HUNT, Model Aviation’s
aeromodeling editor, called to tell me he
had a helicopter for me to review, I was
excited! I’ve not done a product review in
several years, and I like doing them. Bob
proceeded to tell me it was a small,
hardwired indoor helicopter—not what I
expected, but intriguing. I figured that this
machine would probably be along the lines
of a toy. Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
Packaging and Contents: The box arrived
a couple of days later at the office. I was
determined to wait until I got home to
open the box and look at the model.
Lunchtime rolled around and it was too
cold to go anywhere, so I could not resist
taking a look.
I was happy to see that this little
machine was a scale representation of a
full-scale Lama (the helicopter—not the
animal) and was manufactured by Hirobo:
a respected manufacturer of RC helicopters
and other fine equipment. Hirobo is well
known in the Fédération Aéronautique
Internationale competition circuit.
Hirobo calls this an XRB, which stands
for X-rotation blades. The model is nicely
displayed in the package. It is encased in a
snap-together plastic shell for protection,
the hardwired radio is behind the Lama,
and the other accessories (power supply,
manual, training gear—yes training
gear!—tools, and three spare blade sets)
are in other parts of the packaging, so be
sure to look for it all carefully.
I cautiously removed the helicopter
from the clear packaging, but even so I
found that the tail rotor (nonfunctional)
was broken off of its shaft, and one upper
main blade had a small nick in it. I know I
did not damage these parts removing the
machine from the packaging, so it must
have happened in transit. I decided not to
replace the damaged blade at that time, and
I was able to smooth the nick with my
finger to what appeared to be an acceptable
amount.
The Machine: The Lama has a bubble
canopy and open-frame type tailboom
setup; it is nicely detailed. The overall
length is 15 inches, and the main rotor
length is 14 inches. The model has two sets
of rotor blades mounted to an upper and
lower rotor head. The blades are driven by
two separate small electric motors through
reduction gearing turning coaxial main
shafts.
The upper rotor head is topped by a
paddleless flybar. The flybar uses two
rubber-covered weights on each end
instead of the normal paddles and weights;
this system provides the stability for the
upper head.
There are two stripped-down servos
that operate the swashplate on the lower
rotor head, which controls the cyclic
functions. Only the lower head moves to
control cyclic. The rotor system is
counter-rotating, allowing the machine to
operate without a tail rotor to counteract
the torque from the rotor system. This
gives the machine a unique level hover
instead of the normal hover tilted to one
side of a single rotor system. Hirobo
provides a nice description of this system
on the box and in the manual. It is
interesting reading.
The head is fixed pitch. The rudder
(tail rotor if it had one) must be controlled
by magic. Just kidding. Actually a small
piezo gyro creates a differential in the rpm
of the two rotor heads, causing the tail to
remain in control by the ensuing torque.
The transmitter looks and feels like a
standard RC transmitter; it includes
normal trim levers and even has subtrims
behind rubber plugs. (You should never
need to adjust the subtrims; if you do, you
need to read the manual because
something is probably out of adjustment).
The transmitter attaches to a power
supply that plugs into an AC outlet. A
Steve Kaluf
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Hirobo XRB Lama
Pros:
• Flies like a model helicopter
• Spare parts included
• Manual (See text.)
• Scale appearance
Cons:
• Manual (See text.)
• Power cord (It would be great to fly
it by normal Radio Control [RC].)
• Trim shifts slightly as motors warm
up.
The Hirobo XRB (X-rotation blades) is a nicely detailed representation of the full-scale
Lama. The body of this machine simply snaps together.
lightweight 11-foot, 6-inch cable comes
out where the antenna would normally be
and runs to the underside of the helicopter.
This is clipped to the center of gravity
then continues on into the cockpit area,
where it plugs into a connector to supply
the power and control inputs to the
aircraft. The Lama is 99% ready to fly out
of the box.
August 2003 47
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 47
48 MODEL AVIATION
The Instruction Manual: I firmly believe in reading products’
instruction manuals. Throughout the years I’ve learned that the
people who write them typically know what they are talking
about; this is the case with the Lama’s manual. It contains all
sorts of information you are going to want to know no matter how
experienced a helicopter pilot you are.
The Lama is unlike (as far as I know) any other model
helicopter out there. You will run into things with this machine
that will stump you when they happen unless you’ve read the
instruction booklet. If you’ve digested the manual, you’ll know
exactly what is going on and how to fix it.
The methods that most helicopter pilots use for other machines
are not necessarily the same as for this model. The manual is
written in Japanese and English with diagrams interspersed. This
makes it hard to read at times, but the English is well written and
the needed information is there once you get around the layout.
Initial Setup: Once I had finished reading the manual, it was time
to power up the model to see if the controls worked. The Lama
has a unique safety feature that prevents the motors from
starting—no matter what position the throttle stick is in—unless
you push a button first.
This allows you to make adjustments with the servo power on
without worrying about the main motors starting. It also keeps
you from turning the transmitter on with the throttle stick at full,
only to have the machine bounce off of the ceiling.
I turned on the transmitter and moved the cyclic controls. The
swashplate seemed to be moving in the directions I was used to
seeing. There was no way to tell if they were in trim or not, but
the manual cautions that the trims are factory-set for the first
flight before shipping, so I left well enough alone.
The next step was to look at the blade tracking. Each blade
must be adjusted to “fly” in the same plane as the other blade. If it
doesn’t, you’ll get vibration and the machine can be difficult to
control. Instead of the normal two-blade setup, you have four
blades to look at on this little machine. To make blade
identification easier I used a marker to color the tip of one blade
each on the upper and lower sets. The manual recommends doing
that.
I placed the machine on the floor, pushed the rotor-power
arming button, and slowly advanced the throttle. The manual
states that you can hold the model in your hand to do this, but I
guess I’m too used to larger machines and looking at them in a
hover. (I’ve since held the machine in my hand with no problem.)
I advanced the throttle to just less than takeoff power and
looked at the tracking. The lower blade set looked good, but the
upper set (with the nick) was slightly off. I decided that it was not
much and to get it into a hover to see how it looked there.
First Flight: Before I get into the details of the first flight, it
The basic components of the kit (less the training gear) are
shown. Even the required tools are included!
XRB has two sets of rotor blades mounted to upper, lower rotor
head. Two motors through reduction gearing drive blades.
XRB in a stable hover. Cord exiting bottom does not seem to
have any ill effects on flight—unless you step on it!
This gives you an idea of the XRB’s size; a JR Ergo 60 is
hanging from the ceiling above it and the author.
might be helpful for you to know my helicopter experience level.
I’m currently flying an Ergo 60 Sport with a Futaba 9C
transmitter guiding it. I’ll be entering my first Class I competition
this year. Last year I began forward flight; I’m not doing anything
Flight shots by Liz Helms; static shots by the author
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 48
August 2003 49
fancy at this time. I’m comfortable in
almost any hovering attitude except nosein.
I’ve built four helicopters, and all have
flown well right off the bench. I attribute
this to following the instructions/assembly
manuals implicitly. Although I’m no 3-D
pilot, I can do the basics. I’d probably
characterize myself as a low-end
intermediate pilot. I’ve flown RC fixed
wing since the early 1970s and had flown
Control Line for many years before that.
The Lama’s first flight took place in
my office (remember that it was cold
outside) in a very limited space. I slowly
advanced the throttle until the helicopter
was light on the skids. With a touch more
throttle it was approximately three inches
off the carpet. At this height the machine
is still in its own rotorwash and is a little
tough to control.
I did this a couple more times then
lifted it to roughly a foot off the ground.
Everything stabilized at this height.
Rudder trim was a touch off, but not
enough to worry about. I was happy; this
was starting to be really fun!
I set the Lama back down to check
everything out and let the fingers rest a little.
Everything still looked good, so up we went
again—this time to roughly chest height. The
machine locks in nice at this altitude. The tail
will drift slightly with a rapid application of
power, but it is easily corrected.
Cyclic is gentle but has plenty of
authority for flying at the end of an 111⁄2-
foot cord. Rudder input was surprisingly
authoritative and precise, and a full
pirouette would have been no problem (but
I was too chicken to try it).
Landings are easy, but again, since the
machine gets in its own rotorwash when
low and is a bit unstable, I’ve learned that
landing moving forward or pulling the
power off fairly fast works best when
trying to hit a specific spot.
The dangling cord does not seem to
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 49
50 MODEL AVIATION
have too much effect on the machine
unless you reach the end of it or step on it.
Be ready to put in some back stick (upelevator
for the plank guys) to counteract if
you do step on the cord or reach its end.
As the motors heat up, the rudder will
begin to drift. The manual warns that 20
minutes is about it for the motors without
allowing them to cool down. If you don’t
heed the early signs of this, you’ll be doing
uncontrolled pirouettes and trying to get
the model on the ground without hitting
something. The machine does not tilt to the
side as does a full-size RC helicopter, so it
is not too hard to get down.
Lunch was over after all of that, so I
had to wait to get home to do any more
flying. I felt pretty good; the model had
probably been in the air a total of 30
minutes, and everything was still in one
piece.
More Flights: When I got home that day I
had to demonstrate the Lama for my 12-
year-old son. I set up in our family room.
Again there was not much space, and there
were many other hazards—such as dogs
and cats! I did my best to chase everyone
out of the room before flying.
I lifted the model off from the floor and
hovered it to a large footstool. Once over
it, I was able to set the helicopter down on
the stool. Lifting off again, and feeling a
little cocky, I flew the Lama forward to a
couch, and the cord went in between the
two seat cushions. Oops! This was a
problem. The machine was only roughly
six inches up, and the sudden stop caused it
to fall sideways into the armrest.
I cut the power as soon as the rotor
blades hit the armrest. One blade had
broken, but there were no other problems. I
quickly bolted another blade on. Checking
the tracking, I noticed that it was off a bit.
An adjustment of the link controlling this
head brought the tracking back in line. The
manual covers this operation in detail, so
don’t forget to consult it.
I wanted to try some slow circuits
around the room. A 90° pirouette to the
right and a slight push into forward flight
sent the model off to the right. You need to
watch the cord length, but it’s not much of
a problem in general since the cord comes
out of where the antenna would normally
be, making it easy to see.
At the end of the flight to the right I put
in a little left rudder, left aileron, and
forward elevator (down to maintain
forward flight) to effect a more standard
turn. This produced a nice, slow turn with
approximately a 1-foot radius.
It’s interesting that the machine does
not bank into the turn; this is because of the
counter-rotating blade system’s inherent
desire to stay in a stable position. I’m sure
that if the machine was able to be flown
aggressively you could cause it to bank.
However, that is probably not going to
happen in a tight room at the end of an 11-
foot cord.
The same type of turn was repeated on
the left side, completing the circuit. This
type of flight is easy with the Lama
because of its gentle nature.
I’ve put many flights on the Lama, and I
continue to have a great deal of fun with
it. A few things crop up the more you fly
it, but they are easy to correct or adjust.
The instruction booklet does cover
everything, and this machine is different
from what most of us have experienced.
I’ve yet to encounter a situation that I’ve
not resolved within three minutes, and that
includes consultation time with the
manual.
One strange scenario that crops up—
normally after a blade strike—is that the
rudder control will begin to drift
uncontrolled. I must admit that I did not
follow my own recommendation (check
the manual!), and I tried to correct with
trim and subtrim. It took me roughly three
minutes to realize that I was not doing it
right, so I took my own advice and looked
to see what the instructions contained
regarding this condition.
Lo and behold, there it was! To fix this
you adjust the pitch on the upper rotor
head. Each blade holder has a small screw
that allows you to adjust that blade’s
pitch. This must be done equally to each
blade. I made a small mark on the
screwdriver (which is supplied) so that I
could tell how far I turned it.
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08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:13 pm Page 50
52 MODEL AVIATION
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The manual recommends changing the
pitch a half turn at a time. I ended up
turning the screws in approximately oneand-
a-half turns (a half turn at a time) to
correct the trim. If you think about this
adjustment, it is logical. The two sets of
blades must be set to the same pitch to
maintain the same rpm. So when one is out
of adjustment, you get an out-of-trim
situation with the rudder.
The blades used on the Lama are
constructed from lightweight foam; as a
result, they are safe but fairly fragile. The
model is supplied with three complete sets.
Eventually you will hit a blade or two. I’ve
run the model into a couch, a desk, and a
fabric-covered wing, and no damage was
done to anything I hit—not even a mark.
The blade broke, but nothing else did. I
suspect that it would hurt if you put a hand
in the blades, but I doubt that any real
damage would be done.
You can increase the sensitivity of
control by changing the linkage on the top
rotor head from one side to the other. This
does give you more control authority, but it
is not overly sensitive and it’s still smooth.
I’ve heard of others also taking the flybar
weights off to really up the control
authority, but I haven’t tried that yet.
The Hirobo XRB Lama is a great little
helicopter. This machine is no more a toy
than a full-size RC helicopter; it does take
some skill to fly it. However, by the same
token it is not hard to fly.
The best thing about the Lama is that it
really flies like a model helicopter. Its
fixed pitch is so stable that you’ll think you
have collective pitch. There is none of the
“throttle jockeying” normally associated
with trying to hold a fixed-pitch machine at
a constant altitude.
The damage done, in even the most
severe crash, is next to nothing. This
means that the “pucker factor” of trying to
fly a helicopter or trying maneuvers or
flight attitudes such as a nose-in hover is
low. The machine’s inherent stability
makes it easy to fly. In many ways it
replaces the simulator time many of us use
to try such things as a nose-in hover.
Certainly you won’t be trying 3-D flight
with this model.
The Lama also fulfills a need for those
of us in cold climates; with it we can fly
anytime we want. I love to hover, and this
helicopter is really good at that. My next
step will be to allow my 12-year-old son
some stick time and see how he progresses
with it. (I’ll stock up on blades first!)
The Hirobo XRB Lama sells for
approximately $300 and is distributed in
the US by Altech Marketing, which is a
division of Model Rectifier Corporation.
I’ve seen this helicopter listed between
$270 and slightly more than $300. It is a
super little machine that I feel anyone
interested in helicopters (regardless of skill
level) will enjoy. MA
(Editor’s note: Altech Marketing has
asked us to include the following
maintenance advice. For long-term
preventive care of the XRB Lama, oil the
exposed motor bushing before flying for
the day or if you get a sudden drifting after
extended periods of time. If the helicopter
does not sound as smooth as it did at first,
oil the motors as well.)
Distributor:
Model Rectifier Corporation
Box 6312
Edison NJ 08837
(732) 225-2100
www.modelrectifier.com
08sig2.QXD 5.23.03 2:14 pm Page 52