A fast,
aerobatic,
electricpowered
RTF sport
flier
68 MODEL AVIATION
BOB ABERLE
Plane Talk: ParkZone F-27C Stryker RTF
THE PARKZONE F-27C Stryker is
probably one of the most complete electricpowered
RTFs on the RC hobby market.
This all-foam, delta-wing aircraft is offered
in two versions, one of which is the full-up
RTF (catalog item PKZ4200). It comes with
an almost completely assembled airframe,
factory-installed RC and electric power
systems, battery, charger, RC transmitter,
and batteries for that transmitter.
The other Stryker is the “Plug & Play”
version (catalog item PKZ4275). It is the
same aircraft as the RTF and it is
assembled, but it comes only with the motor
and ESC. You must supply your own radio
system and install it. You will also need a
battery pack and charger. This version sells
for $179.99.
For review purposes I was provided with
the complete RTF package. Everything I
needed came in one large shipping box. When
I opened it, I was surprised to find that the
only items requiring assembly were the two
vertical fins and the nose. If provided already
assembled, these components would have
required a much larger shipping box.
The assembly took me approximately 15
minutes. I put five-minute epoxy on the nose
section and fins. Although the fins snap in
place and the nose has double-stick tape, the
addition of the cement provides a slight extra
margin of safety when the aircraft is flown at
high speeds.
Eight alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries
are included for the 72 MHz FM RC dualstick
transmitter. You insert them into the
battery box located at the rear of the
transmitter. The last thing you have to do is
charge the Li-Poly battery pack. An excellent
balance-type Li-Poly charger is provided.
Then it is off to the flying field.
The instructions claim that the Stryker is a
“Charge-and-Fly” park flyer. The charge-andfly
part is true, but I’m not sure I would want
to fly this fast aircraft in a parking lot unless it
were huge and in a generally remote area. At
19,000 rpm, its sound in flight is
“noticeable”!
Because of its high-performance
characteristics, this model is not intended for
beginner pilots. However, an average sport
flier with some flying time should be able to
handle it.
The F-27C, which has basically a flyingor
delta-wing configuration, is constructed
from a single molded piece of Z-Foam
material. There is an easily removable
battery-compartment hatch cover up
forward. Directly behind that is a hatch that
covers the receiver and ESC and the servo
cables coming in from the servos mounted
in the outer wing panels.
The author at the controls; does he look nervous? At 196 watts per pound, a pilot must
concentrate—especially when coming out of a near-vertical dive at full throttle. This is a
sensational aircraft.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:36 AM Page 68
May 2008 69
Static photos by the author Flight photos by Joe Cabana
Above: The factory-installed ParkZone
motor is a direct drive, six-pole, 1,880 Kv
brushless inrunner. The included 6 x 4
propeller is plastic.
Left: The model is molded from Z-Foam
and comes essentially fully assembled
with the RC and power systems installed.
The supplied ParkZone four-channel, 72 MHz, FM transmitter uses
eight AA-size batteries. Those provided are the heavy-duty type.
Elevon servos are located on the top of the wing for the best
possible leverage and protection against belly landings.
The forward battery compartment hatch is easy to remove for servicing the battery
pack. Notice the exclusive easy-to-grip battery connectors.
The transmitter case has a dual rate switch
that affects the elevons’ control throw. The
amount of control reduction is set at the
factory and not adjustable.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:37 AM Page 69
70 MODEL AVIATION
A multicell, balance-type Li-Poly charger
is included for foolproof and safe charging
of the included battery. Its output is
adjustable up to a 2-amp current.
This balance charger will work with all ParkZone, HobbyZone, and E-flite Li-Poly
batteries. At left is the two-cell port; at right is the three-cell port.
Two finger holes are molded into the belly for a better grip
when hand launching. The two black holes indicate the CG
location. The Stryker balanced perfectly directly from the
factory.
The nose and two vertical fins are the only
things involved in the final assembly.
Although the nose is taped in place and the
two fins snap in place, the author added
five-minute epoxy for extra strength.
It is best to have someone hand launch the model so the pilot can
have both hands on the control sticks.
This aircraft is capable of flying speeds that exceed 80
mph. Factory-installed elevon hinges are a heavy-duty
type, to handle the flying speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:39 AM Page 70
May 2008 71
Specifications
Model type: RTF sport/highly aerobatic
Pilot skill level: Intended for more
experienced RC fliers
Wingspan: 37 inches
Wing area: 360 square inches
(approximate)
Weight: 23.3 ounces (with supplied
battery installed)
Wing loading: 9.3 ounces/square foot
Length: 27 inches
Motor: ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv
brushless inrunner (direct drive)
ESC: E-flite 25-amp brushless
programmable, with BEC
Propeller: 6 x 4 plastic (supplied)
Motor current: 25.7 amps (at start)
Motor voltage: 11.14 (under load at
start)
Motor power: 285 watts (at start)
rpm: 19,000 (at start)
Watts/pound: 196
Battery: Three-cell ParkZone 2200 mAh
Li-Poly with balance connector (weighs
5.7 ounces)
Charger: ParkZone 2-3 Cell LiPo
Balancing Charger with 12 VDC input
(supplied)
Radio: Four-channel ParkZone 72 MHz
FM system with dual rate control and
built-in mixer (supplied and installed in the
aircraft, providing proportional elevon
control [mixed ailerons and elevator]).
Receiver is six-channel capable.
Flight duration: Up to 12 minutes, with
throttling, with designated battery pack
Street price: $299.99
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Offered as a complete RTF package or
Plug & Play version
• Minimal assembly required
• Li-Poly balance charger included
• Possible flight speeds of more than
80 mph
• Durable Z-Foam construction
-•
The two control rates are not
adjustable.
This second hatch is pinned in place,
and normally there would be no need to
remove it. Both hatch covers contain
plenty of airholes to dissipate any heat that
is generated during flight.
The entire aircraft is prepainted in a
neat and racy color scheme, and it arrives
with decals already applied. The elevon
hinges are a heavy-duty type, to take the
air loads. The combination of color
scheme, fast flying speed, and sound in
flight will make the Stryker a big hit with
modelers and spectators at the local flying
field.
The provided four-channel RC system
is the Horizon Hobby ParkZone house
brand. Although it comes with alkaline
nonrechargeable battery cells (AA size), it
appears to have a charging jack. You may
be able to substitute rechargeable NiMH
cells later and plug in an external charger.
The transmitter has servo-reversing
functions and a mixer function that will let
you operate the elevons on the Stryker.
The elevons provide aileron (roll) control
and elevator (pitch) control.
The transmitter also has a dual rate
function that is operated by a switch
located on the top right corner. If you
move the switch to the rear, you get a low
control rate (plus or minus 5/16 inch on
aileron and 3/16 inch on elevator). These
low rates (less control) are desirable when
flying at top or high speeds.
If you move the switch forward, you
get high or full rate control (7/16 inch for
ailerons and 5/16 inch for elevator). (That’s
5/16 inch on either side of the neutral
position.) You would use that rate for
takeoffs and landings.
The two control rates are preselected
for this aircraft and are not adjustable.
This is a complete RC system and, as
such, could easily be used later to fly other
types of model aircraft.
The motor that comes factory mounted
is a ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv brushless
inrunner. It is run direct drive; no gearing
is necessary. The provided propeller is a
gray plastic 6 x 4. Since this is a pusher
configuration, the propeller must be
reversed. When you start the motor, the air
should be blowing out the rear of the
aircraft.
For a battery to power this motor,
Horizon provides a ParkZone three-cell
Li-Poly type with a capacity of 2200 mAh
and a power capability of 12C continuous.
The pack weighs 5.7 ounces. It comes
wired with a special connector that allows
you individual access to each of the three
cells.
The charger supplied with the model is
a balanced type with a mating connector
(to connect to the battery). This charger
can accommodate two- and three-cell
packs that employ the same ParkZone
proprietary balance connector.
Charge current is adjustable up to 2
amps when operated from a 12-volt DC
input. For this 2200 (2.2 amp-hour)
battery, you will need the full 2.0 amps to
be able to recharge the pack completely
in roughly one hour’s time.
With this propeller, motor, and battery
combination, the current at full throttle
(and a fully charged battery) is 25.7
amps, 11.14 volts (under load), 285
watts, and 19,000 rpm. The actual power
loading at those parameters is 11.7C,
which is just less than this pack’s
maximum rating.
The final aircraft weight was 23.3
ounces. At 285 watts, that works out to
an incredible 196 watts per pound. Wow!
The recommended CG location is 6
inches forward from the wing TE. At that
location, two holes are molded into the
lower foam surface; they provide finger
grips that make it easier to hand launch
the airplane. In the center of each hole is
a circle that marks the exact CG location.
The Stryker’s designers did an excellent
job; it balances perfectly from the
factory.
An E-flite 25-amp brushless ESC,
with a BEC, is supplied. It comes with
the following factory default settings:
three Li-Poly cell low-voltage cutoff,
brake is inactive, four-pole or more motor
timing, and auto setting throttle input
range.
The low-voltage cutoff is 3.05 volts
per cell. When that level is reached, the
motor will pulse repeatedly as a warning
that it is time to land.
You can program this ESC for many
special functions instead of using the
factory default settings. The instruction
sheet is complete and easy to follow.
Programming is accomplished by moving
the transmitter throttle stick in prescribed
sequences while listening to audible
beeps from the ESC.
Flying: Flying the Stryker at 196 watts
per pound was nothing short of
sensational! The minute my aircraft was
launched, all activity at the flying field
stopped so people could watch.
The instructions recommend that a
person hand launches while the pilot
keeps both of his or her hands on the
transmitter. The suggestion is to launch
the airplane with a strong thrust, with
the motor off. That provides less of a
chance of getting a launcher’s hand
caught in the propeller (which is at the
rear of the wing). As soon as the model
leaves your launcher’s hand, go to full
power and hang on!
I quickly reduced power and set my
trims. Then I switched to low rate on the
dual-rate switch. That placed the aileron
and elevator controls at lower travel,
which made for less-sensitive controls at
high speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:57 AM Page 71
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/05
Page Numbers: 68,69,70,71,72
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/05
Page Numbers: 68,69,70,71,72
A fast,
aerobatic,
electricpowered
RTF sport
flier
68 MODEL AVIATION
BOB ABERLE
Plane Talk: ParkZone F-27C Stryker RTF
THE PARKZONE F-27C Stryker is
probably one of the most complete electricpowered
RTFs on the RC hobby market.
This all-foam, delta-wing aircraft is offered
in two versions, one of which is the full-up
RTF (catalog item PKZ4200). It comes with
an almost completely assembled airframe,
factory-installed RC and electric power
systems, battery, charger, RC transmitter,
and batteries for that transmitter.
The other Stryker is the “Plug & Play”
version (catalog item PKZ4275). It is the
same aircraft as the RTF and it is
assembled, but it comes only with the motor
and ESC. You must supply your own radio
system and install it. You will also need a
battery pack and charger. This version sells
for $179.99.
For review purposes I was provided with
the complete RTF package. Everything I
needed came in one large shipping box. When
I opened it, I was surprised to find that the
only items requiring assembly were the two
vertical fins and the nose. If provided already
assembled, these components would have
required a much larger shipping box.
The assembly took me approximately 15
minutes. I put five-minute epoxy on the nose
section and fins. Although the fins snap in
place and the nose has double-stick tape, the
addition of the cement provides a slight extra
margin of safety when the aircraft is flown at
high speeds.
Eight alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries
are included for the 72 MHz FM RC dualstick
transmitter. You insert them into the
battery box located at the rear of the
transmitter. The last thing you have to do is
charge the Li-Poly battery pack. An excellent
balance-type Li-Poly charger is provided.
Then it is off to the flying field.
The instructions claim that the Stryker is a
“Charge-and-Fly” park flyer. The charge-andfly
part is true, but I’m not sure I would want
to fly this fast aircraft in a parking lot unless it
were huge and in a generally remote area. At
19,000 rpm, its sound in flight is
“noticeable”!
Because of its high-performance
characteristics, this model is not intended for
beginner pilots. However, an average sport
flier with some flying time should be able to
handle it.
The F-27C, which has basically a flyingor
delta-wing configuration, is constructed
from a single molded piece of Z-Foam
material. There is an easily removable
battery-compartment hatch cover up
forward. Directly behind that is a hatch that
covers the receiver and ESC and the servo
cables coming in from the servos mounted
in the outer wing panels.
The author at the controls; does he look nervous? At 196 watts per pound, a pilot must
concentrate—especially when coming out of a near-vertical dive at full throttle. This is a
sensational aircraft.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:36 AM Page 68
May 2008 69
Static photos by the author Flight photos by Joe Cabana
Above: The factory-installed ParkZone
motor is a direct drive, six-pole, 1,880 Kv
brushless inrunner. The included 6 x 4
propeller is plastic.
Left: The model is molded from Z-Foam
and comes essentially fully assembled
with the RC and power systems installed.
The supplied ParkZone four-channel, 72 MHz, FM transmitter uses
eight AA-size batteries. Those provided are the heavy-duty type.
Elevon servos are located on the top of the wing for the best
possible leverage and protection against belly landings.
The forward battery compartment hatch is easy to remove for servicing the battery
pack. Notice the exclusive easy-to-grip battery connectors.
The transmitter case has a dual rate switch
that affects the elevons’ control throw. The
amount of control reduction is set at the
factory and not adjustable.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:37 AM Page 69
70 MODEL AVIATION
A multicell, balance-type Li-Poly charger
is included for foolproof and safe charging
of the included battery. Its output is
adjustable up to a 2-amp current.
This balance charger will work with all ParkZone, HobbyZone, and E-flite Li-Poly
batteries. At left is the two-cell port; at right is the three-cell port.
Two finger holes are molded into the belly for a better grip
when hand launching. The two black holes indicate the CG
location. The Stryker balanced perfectly directly from the
factory.
The nose and two vertical fins are the only
things involved in the final assembly.
Although the nose is taped in place and the
two fins snap in place, the author added
five-minute epoxy for extra strength.
It is best to have someone hand launch the model so the pilot can
have both hands on the control sticks.
This aircraft is capable of flying speeds that exceed 80
mph. Factory-installed elevon hinges are a heavy-duty
type, to handle the flying speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:39 AM Page 70
May 2008 71
Specifications
Model type: RTF sport/highly aerobatic
Pilot skill level: Intended for more
experienced RC fliers
Wingspan: 37 inches
Wing area: 360 square inches
(approximate)
Weight: 23.3 ounces (with supplied
battery installed)
Wing loading: 9.3 ounces/square foot
Length: 27 inches
Motor: ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv
brushless inrunner (direct drive)
ESC: E-flite 25-amp brushless
programmable, with BEC
Propeller: 6 x 4 plastic (supplied)
Motor current: 25.7 amps (at start)
Motor voltage: 11.14 (under load at
start)
Motor power: 285 watts (at start)
rpm: 19,000 (at start)
Watts/pound: 196
Battery: Three-cell ParkZone 2200 mAh
Li-Poly with balance connector (weighs
5.7 ounces)
Charger: ParkZone 2-3 Cell LiPo
Balancing Charger with 12 VDC input
(supplied)
Radio: Four-channel ParkZone 72 MHz
FM system with dual rate control and
built-in mixer (supplied and installed in the
aircraft, providing proportional elevon
control [mixed ailerons and elevator]).
Receiver is six-channel capable.
Flight duration: Up to 12 minutes, with
throttling, with designated battery pack
Street price: $299.99
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Offered as a complete RTF package or
Plug & Play version
• Minimal assembly required
• Li-Poly balance charger included
• Possible flight speeds of more than
80 mph
• Durable Z-Foam construction
-•
The two control rates are not
adjustable.
This second hatch is pinned in place,
and normally there would be no need to
remove it. Both hatch covers contain
plenty of airholes to dissipate any heat that
is generated during flight.
The entire aircraft is prepainted in a
neat and racy color scheme, and it arrives
with decals already applied. The elevon
hinges are a heavy-duty type, to take the
air loads. The combination of color
scheme, fast flying speed, and sound in
flight will make the Stryker a big hit with
modelers and spectators at the local flying
field.
The provided four-channel RC system
is the Horizon Hobby ParkZone house
brand. Although it comes with alkaline
nonrechargeable battery cells (AA size), it
appears to have a charging jack. You may
be able to substitute rechargeable NiMH
cells later and plug in an external charger.
The transmitter has servo-reversing
functions and a mixer function that will let
you operate the elevons on the Stryker.
The elevons provide aileron (roll) control
and elevator (pitch) control.
The transmitter also has a dual rate
function that is operated by a switch
located on the top right corner. If you
move the switch to the rear, you get a low
control rate (plus or minus 5/16 inch on
aileron and 3/16 inch on elevator). These
low rates (less control) are desirable when
flying at top or high speeds.
If you move the switch forward, you
get high or full rate control (7/16 inch for
ailerons and 5/16 inch for elevator). (That’s
5/16 inch on either side of the neutral
position.) You would use that rate for
takeoffs and landings.
The two control rates are preselected
for this aircraft and are not adjustable.
This is a complete RC system and, as
such, could easily be used later to fly other
types of model aircraft.
The motor that comes factory mounted
is a ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv brushless
inrunner. It is run direct drive; no gearing
is necessary. The provided propeller is a
gray plastic 6 x 4. Since this is a pusher
configuration, the propeller must be
reversed. When you start the motor, the air
should be blowing out the rear of the
aircraft.
For a battery to power this motor,
Horizon provides a ParkZone three-cell
Li-Poly type with a capacity of 2200 mAh
and a power capability of 12C continuous.
The pack weighs 5.7 ounces. It comes
wired with a special connector that allows
you individual access to each of the three
cells.
The charger supplied with the model is
a balanced type with a mating connector
(to connect to the battery). This charger
can accommodate two- and three-cell
packs that employ the same ParkZone
proprietary balance connector.
Charge current is adjustable up to 2
amps when operated from a 12-volt DC
input. For this 2200 (2.2 amp-hour)
battery, you will need the full 2.0 amps to
be able to recharge the pack completely
in roughly one hour’s time.
With this propeller, motor, and battery
combination, the current at full throttle
(and a fully charged battery) is 25.7
amps, 11.14 volts (under load), 285
watts, and 19,000 rpm. The actual power
loading at those parameters is 11.7C,
which is just less than this pack’s
maximum rating.
The final aircraft weight was 23.3
ounces. At 285 watts, that works out to
an incredible 196 watts per pound. Wow!
The recommended CG location is 6
inches forward from the wing TE. At that
location, two holes are molded into the
lower foam surface; they provide finger
grips that make it easier to hand launch
the airplane. In the center of each hole is
a circle that marks the exact CG location.
The Stryker’s designers did an excellent
job; it balances perfectly from the
factory.
An E-flite 25-amp brushless ESC,
with a BEC, is supplied. It comes with
the following factory default settings:
three Li-Poly cell low-voltage cutoff,
brake is inactive, four-pole or more motor
timing, and auto setting throttle input
range.
The low-voltage cutoff is 3.05 volts
per cell. When that level is reached, the
motor will pulse repeatedly as a warning
that it is time to land.
You can program this ESC for many
special functions instead of using the
factory default settings. The instruction
sheet is complete and easy to follow.
Programming is accomplished by moving
the transmitter throttle stick in prescribed
sequences while listening to audible
beeps from the ESC.
Flying: Flying the Stryker at 196 watts
per pound was nothing short of
sensational! The minute my aircraft was
launched, all activity at the flying field
stopped so people could watch.
The instructions recommend that a
person hand launches while the pilot
keeps both of his or her hands on the
transmitter. The suggestion is to launch
the airplane with a strong thrust, with
the motor off. That provides less of a
chance of getting a launcher’s hand
caught in the propeller (which is at the
rear of the wing). As soon as the model
leaves your launcher’s hand, go to full
power and hang on!
I quickly reduced power and set my
trims. Then I switched to low rate on the
dual-rate switch. That placed the aileron
and elevator controls at lower travel,
which made for less-sensitive controls at
high speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:57 AM Page 71
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/05
Page Numbers: 68,69,70,71,72
A fast,
aerobatic,
electricpowered
RTF sport
flier
68 MODEL AVIATION
BOB ABERLE
Plane Talk: ParkZone F-27C Stryker RTF
THE PARKZONE F-27C Stryker is
probably one of the most complete electricpowered
RTFs on the RC hobby market.
This all-foam, delta-wing aircraft is offered
in two versions, one of which is the full-up
RTF (catalog item PKZ4200). It comes with
an almost completely assembled airframe,
factory-installed RC and electric power
systems, battery, charger, RC transmitter,
and batteries for that transmitter.
The other Stryker is the “Plug & Play”
version (catalog item PKZ4275). It is the
same aircraft as the RTF and it is
assembled, but it comes only with the motor
and ESC. You must supply your own radio
system and install it. You will also need a
battery pack and charger. This version sells
for $179.99.
For review purposes I was provided with
the complete RTF package. Everything I
needed came in one large shipping box. When
I opened it, I was surprised to find that the
only items requiring assembly were the two
vertical fins and the nose. If provided already
assembled, these components would have
required a much larger shipping box.
The assembly took me approximately 15
minutes. I put five-minute epoxy on the nose
section and fins. Although the fins snap in
place and the nose has double-stick tape, the
addition of the cement provides a slight extra
margin of safety when the aircraft is flown at
high speeds.
Eight alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries
are included for the 72 MHz FM RC dualstick
transmitter. You insert them into the
battery box located at the rear of the
transmitter. The last thing you have to do is
charge the Li-Poly battery pack. An excellent
balance-type Li-Poly charger is provided.
Then it is off to the flying field.
The instructions claim that the Stryker is a
“Charge-and-Fly” park flyer. The charge-andfly
part is true, but I’m not sure I would want
to fly this fast aircraft in a parking lot unless it
were huge and in a generally remote area. At
19,000 rpm, its sound in flight is
“noticeable”!
Because of its high-performance
characteristics, this model is not intended for
beginner pilots. However, an average sport
flier with some flying time should be able to
handle it.
The F-27C, which has basically a flyingor
delta-wing configuration, is constructed
from a single molded piece of Z-Foam
material. There is an easily removable
battery-compartment hatch cover up
forward. Directly behind that is a hatch that
covers the receiver and ESC and the servo
cables coming in from the servos mounted
in the outer wing panels.
The author at the controls; does he look nervous? At 196 watts per pound, a pilot must
concentrate—especially when coming out of a near-vertical dive at full throttle. This is a
sensational aircraft.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:36 AM Page 68
May 2008 69
Static photos by the author Flight photos by Joe Cabana
Above: The factory-installed ParkZone
motor is a direct drive, six-pole, 1,880 Kv
brushless inrunner. The included 6 x 4
propeller is plastic.
Left: The model is molded from Z-Foam
and comes essentially fully assembled
with the RC and power systems installed.
The supplied ParkZone four-channel, 72 MHz, FM transmitter uses
eight AA-size batteries. Those provided are the heavy-duty type.
Elevon servos are located on the top of the wing for the best
possible leverage and protection against belly landings.
The forward battery compartment hatch is easy to remove for servicing the battery
pack. Notice the exclusive easy-to-grip battery connectors.
The transmitter case has a dual rate switch
that affects the elevons’ control throw. The
amount of control reduction is set at the
factory and not adjustable.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:37 AM Page 69
70 MODEL AVIATION
A multicell, balance-type Li-Poly charger
is included for foolproof and safe charging
of the included battery. Its output is
adjustable up to a 2-amp current.
This balance charger will work with all ParkZone, HobbyZone, and E-flite Li-Poly
batteries. At left is the two-cell port; at right is the three-cell port.
Two finger holes are molded into the belly for a better grip
when hand launching. The two black holes indicate the CG
location. The Stryker balanced perfectly directly from the
factory.
The nose and two vertical fins are the only
things involved in the final assembly.
Although the nose is taped in place and the
two fins snap in place, the author added
five-minute epoxy for extra strength.
It is best to have someone hand launch the model so the pilot can
have both hands on the control sticks.
This aircraft is capable of flying speeds that exceed 80
mph. Factory-installed elevon hinges are a heavy-duty
type, to handle the flying speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:39 AM Page 70
May 2008 71
Specifications
Model type: RTF sport/highly aerobatic
Pilot skill level: Intended for more
experienced RC fliers
Wingspan: 37 inches
Wing area: 360 square inches
(approximate)
Weight: 23.3 ounces (with supplied
battery installed)
Wing loading: 9.3 ounces/square foot
Length: 27 inches
Motor: ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv
brushless inrunner (direct drive)
ESC: E-flite 25-amp brushless
programmable, with BEC
Propeller: 6 x 4 plastic (supplied)
Motor current: 25.7 amps (at start)
Motor voltage: 11.14 (under load at
start)
Motor power: 285 watts (at start)
rpm: 19,000 (at start)
Watts/pound: 196
Battery: Three-cell ParkZone 2200 mAh
Li-Poly with balance connector (weighs
5.7 ounces)
Charger: ParkZone 2-3 Cell LiPo
Balancing Charger with 12 VDC input
(supplied)
Radio: Four-channel ParkZone 72 MHz
FM system with dual rate control and
built-in mixer (supplied and installed in the
aircraft, providing proportional elevon
control [mixed ailerons and elevator]).
Receiver is six-channel capable.
Flight duration: Up to 12 minutes, with
throttling, with designated battery pack
Street price: $299.99
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Offered as a complete RTF package or
Plug & Play version
• Minimal assembly required
• Li-Poly balance charger included
• Possible flight speeds of more than
80 mph
• Durable Z-Foam construction
-•
The two control rates are not
adjustable.
This second hatch is pinned in place,
and normally there would be no need to
remove it. Both hatch covers contain
plenty of airholes to dissipate any heat that
is generated during flight.
The entire aircraft is prepainted in a
neat and racy color scheme, and it arrives
with decals already applied. The elevon
hinges are a heavy-duty type, to take the
air loads. The combination of color
scheme, fast flying speed, and sound in
flight will make the Stryker a big hit with
modelers and spectators at the local flying
field.
The provided four-channel RC system
is the Horizon Hobby ParkZone house
brand. Although it comes with alkaline
nonrechargeable battery cells (AA size), it
appears to have a charging jack. You may
be able to substitute rechargeable NiMH
cells later and plug in an external charger.
The transmitter has servo-reversing
functions and a mixer function that will let
you operate the elevons on the Stryker.
The elevons provide aileron (roll) control
and elevator (pitch) control.
The transmitter also has a dual rate
function that is operated by a switch
located on the top right corner. If you
move the switch to the rear, you get a low
control rate (plus or minus 5/16 inch on
aileron and 3/16 inch on elevator). These
low rates (less control) are desirable when
flying at top or high speeds.
If you move the switch forward, you
get high or full rate control (7/16 inch for
ailerons and 5/16 inch for elevator). (That’s
5/16 inch on either side of the neutral
position.) You would use that rate for
takeoffs and landings.
The two control rates are preselected
for this aircraft and are not adjustable.
This is a complete RC system and, as
such, could easily be used later to fly other
types of model aircraft.
The motor that comes factory mounted
is a ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv brushless
inrunner. It is run direct drive; no gearing
is necessary. The provided propeller is a
gray plastic 6 x 4. Since this is a pusher
configuration, the propeller must be
reversed. When you start the motor, the air
should be blowing out the rear of the
aircraft.
For a battery to power this motor,
Horizon provides a ParkZone three-cell
Li-Poly type with a capacity of 2200 mAh
and a power capability of 12C continuous.
The pack weighs 5.7 ounces. It comes
wired with a special connector that allows
you individual access to each of the three
cells.
The charger supplied with the model is
a balanced type with a mating connector
(to connect to the battery). This charger
can accommodate two- and three-cell
packs that employ the same ParkZone
proprietary balance connector.
Charge current is adjustable up to 2
amps when operated from a 12-volt DC
input. For this 2200 (2.2 amp-hour)
battery, you will need the full 2.0 amps to
be able to recharge the pack completely
in roughly one hour’s time.
With this propeller, motor, and battery
combination, the current at full throttle
(and a fully charged battery) is 25.7
amps, 11.14 volts (under load), 285
watts, and 19,000 rpm. The actual power
loading at those parameters is 11.7C,
which is just less than this pack’s
maximum rating.
The final aircraft weight was 23.3
ounces. At 285 watts, that works out to
an incredible 196 watts per pound. Wow!
The recommended CG location is 6
inches forward from the wing TE. At that
location, two holes are molded into the
lower foam surface; they provide finger
grips that make it easier to hand launch
the airplane. In the center of each hole is
a circle that marks the exact CG location.
The Stryker’s designers did an excellent
job; it balances perfectly from the
factory.
An E-flite 25-amp brushless ESC,
with a BEC, is supplied. It comes with
the following factory default settings:
three Li-Poly cell low-voltage cutoff,
brake is inactive, four-pole or more motor
timing, and auto setting throttle input
range.
The low-voltage cutoff is 3.05 volts
per cell. When that level is reached, the
motor will pulse repeatedly as a warning
that it is time to land.
You can program this ESC for many
special functions instead of using the
factory default settings. The instruction
sheet is complete and easy to follow.
Programming is accomplished by moving
the transmitter throttle stick in prescribed
sequences while listening to audible
beeps from the ESC.
Flying: Flying the Stryker at 196 watts
per pound was nothing short of
sensational! The minute my aircraft was
launched, all activity at the flying field
stopped so people could watch.
The instructions recommend that a
person hand launches while the pilot
keeps both of his or her hands on the
transmitter. The suggestion is to launch
the airplane with a strong thrust, with
the motor off. That provides less of a
chance of getting a launcher’s hand
caught in the propeller (which is at the
rear of the wing). As soon as the model
leaves your launcher’s hand, go to full
power and hang on!
I quickly reduced power and set my
trims. Then I switched to low rate on the
dual-rate switch. That placed the aileron
and elevator controls at lower travel,
which made for less-sensitive controls at
high speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:57 AM Page 71
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/05
Page Numbers: 68,69,70,71,72
A fast,
aerobatic,
electricpowered
RTF sport
flier
68 MODEL AVIATION
BOB ABERLE
Plane Talk: ParkZone F-27C Stryker RTF
THE PARKZONE F-27C Stryker is
probably one of the most complete electricpowered
RTFs on the RC hobby market.
This all-foam, delta-wing aircraft is offered
in two versions, one of which is the full-up
RTF (catalog item PKZ4200). It comes with
an almost completely assembled airframe,
factory-installed RC and electric power
systems, battery, charger, RC transmitter,
and batteries for that transmitter.
The other Stryker is the “Plug & Play”
version (catalog item PKZ4275). It is the
same aircraft as the RTF and it is
assembled, but it comes only with the motor
and ESC. You must supply your own radio
system and install it. You will also need a
battery pack and charger. This version sells
for $179.99.
For review purposes I was provided with
the complete RTF package. Everything I
needed came in one large shipping box. When
I opened it, I was surprised to find that the
only items requiring assembly were the two
vertical fins and the nose. If provided already
assembled, these components would have
required a much larger shipping box.
The assembly took me approximately 15
minutes. I put five-minute epoxy on the nose
section and fins. Although the fins snap in
place and the nose has double-stick tape, the
addition of the cement provides a slight extra
margin of safety when the aircraft is flown at
high speeds.
Eight alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries
are included for the 72 MHz FM RC dualstick
transmitter. You insert them into the
battery box located at the rear of the
transmitter. The last thing you have to do is
charge the Li-Poly battery pack. An excellent
balance-type Li-Poly charger is provided.
Then it is off to the flying field.
The instructions claim that the Stryker is a
“Charge-and-Fly” park flyer. The charge-andfly
part is true, but I’m not sure I would want
to fly this fast aircraft in a parking lot unless it
were huge and in a generally remote area. At
19,000 rpm, its sound in flight is
“noticeable”!
Because of its high-performance
characteristics, this model is not intended for
beginner pilots. However, an average sport
flier with some flying time should be able to
handle it.
The F-27C, which has basically a flyingor
delta-wing configuration, is constructed
from a single molded piece of Z-Foam
material. There is an easily removable
battery-compartment hatch cover up
forward. Directly behind that is a hatch that
covers the receiver and ESC and the servo
cables coming in from the servos mounted
in the outer wing panels.
The author at the controls; does he look nervous? At 196 watts per pound, a pilot must
concentrate—especially when coming out of a near-vertical dive at full throttle. This is a
sensational aircraft.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:36 AM Page 68
May 2008 69
Static photos by the author Flight photos by Joe Cabana
Above: The factory-installed ParkZone
motor is a direct drive, six-pole, 1,880 Kv
brushless inrunner. The included 6 x 4
propeller is plastic.
Left: The model is molded from Z-Foam
and comes essentially fully assembled
with the RC and power systems installed.
The supplied ParkZone four-channel, 72 MHz, FM transmitter uses
eight AA-size batteries. Those provided are the heavy-duty type.
Elevon servos are located on the top of the wing for the best
possible leverage and protection against belly landings.
The forward battery compartment hatch is easy to remove for servicing the battery
pack. Notice the exclusive easy-to-grip battery connectors.
The transmitter case has a dual rate switch
that affects the elevons’ control throw. The
amount of control reduction is set at the
factory and not adjustable.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:37 AM Page 69
70 MODEL AVIATION
A multicell, balance-type Li-Poly charger
is included for foolproof and safe charging
of the included battery. Its output is
adjustable up to a 2-amp current.
This balance charger will work with all ParkZone, HobbyZone, and E-flite Li-Poly
batteries. At left is the two-cell port; at right is the three-cell port.
Two finger holes are molded into the belly for a better grip
when hand launching. The two black holes indicate the CG
location. The Stryker balanced perfectly directly from the
factory.
The nose and two vertical fins are the only
things involved in the final assembly.
Although the nose is taped in place and the
two fins snap in place, the author added
five-minute epoxy for extra strength.
It is best to have someone hand launch the model so the pilot can
have both hands on the control sticks.
This aircraft is capable of flying speeds that exceed 80
mph. Factory-installed elevon hinges are a heavy-duty
type, to handle the flying speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:39 AM Page 70
May 2008 71
Specifications
Model type: RTF sport/highly aerobatic
Pilot skill level: Intended for more
experienced RC fliers
Wingspan: 37 inches
Wing area: 360 square inches
(approximate)
Weight: 23.3 ounces (with supplied
battery installed)
Wing loading: 9.3 ounces/square foot
Length: 27 inches
Motor: ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv
brushless inrunner (direct drive)
ESC: E-flite 25-amp brushless
programmable, with BEC
Propeller: 6 x 4 plastic (supplied)
Motor current: 25.7 amps (at start)
Motor voltage: 11.14 (under load at
start)
Motor power: 285 watts (at start)
rpm: 19,000 (at start)
Watts/pound: 196
Battery: Three-cell ParkZone 2200 mAh
Li-Poly with balance connector (weighs
5.7 ounces)
Charger: ParkZone 2-3 Cell LiPo
Balancing Charger with 12 VDC input
(supplied)
Radio: Four-channel ParkZone 72 MHz
FM system with dual rate control and
built-in mixer (supplied and installed in the
aircraft, providing proportional elevon
control [mixed ailerons and elevator]).
Receiver is six-channel capable.
Flight duration: Up to 12 minutes, with
throttling, with designated battery pack
Street price: $299.99
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Offered as a complete RTF package or
Plug & Play version
• Minimal assembly required
• Li-Poly balance charger included
• Possible flight speeds of more than
80 mph
• Durable Z-Foam construction
-•
The two control rates are not
adjustable.
This second hatch is pinned in place,
and normally there would be no need to
remove it. Both hatch covers contain
plenty of airholes to dissipate any heat that
is generated during flight.
The entire aircraft is prepainted in a
neat and racy color scheme, and it arrives
with decals already applied. The elevon
hinges are a heavy-duty type, to take the
air loads. The combination of color
scheme, fast flying speed, and sound in
flight will make the Stryker a big hit with
modelers and spectators at the local flying
field.
The provided four-channel RC system
is the Horizon Hobby ParkZone house
brand. Although it comes with alkaline
nonrechargeable battery cells (AA size), it
appears to have a charging jack. You may
be able to substitute rechargeable NiMH
cells later and plug in an external charger.
The transmitter has servo-reversing
functions and a mixer function that will let
you operate the elevons on the Stryker.
The elevons provide aileron (roll) control
and elevator (pitch) control.
The transmitter also has a dual rate
function that is operated by a switch
located on the top right corner. If you
move the switch to the rear, you get a low
control rate (plus or minus 5/16 inch on
aileron and 3/16 inch on elevator). These
low rates (less control) are desirable when
flying at top or high speeds.
If you move the switch forward, you
get high or full rate control (7/16 inch for
ailerons and 5/16 inch for elevator). (That’s
5/16 inch on either side of the neutral
position.) You would use that rate for
takeoffs and landings.
The two control rates are preselected
for this aircraft and are not adjustable.
This is a complete RC system and, as
such, could easily be used later to fly other
types of model aircraft.
The motor that comes factory mounted
is a ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv brushless
inrunner. It is run direct drive; no gearing
is necessary. The provided propeller is a
gray plastic 6 x 4. Since this is a pusher
configuration, the propeller must be
reversed. When you start the motor, the air
should be blowing out the rear of the
aircraft.
For a battery to power this motor,
Horizon provides a ParkZone three-cell
Li-Poly type with a capacity of 2200 mAh
and a power capability of 12C continuous.
The pack weighs 5.7 ounces. It comes
wired with a special connector that allows
you individual access to each of the three
cells.
The charger supplied with the model is
a balanced type with a mating connector
(to connect to the battery). This charger
can accommodate two- and three-cell
packs that employ the same ParkZone
proprietary balance connector.
Charge current is adjustable up to 2
amps when operated from a 12-volt DC
input. For this 2200 (2.2 amp-hour)
battery, you will need the full 2.0 amps to
be able to recharge the pack completely
in roughly one hour’s time.
With this propeller, motor, and battery
combination, the current at full throttle
(and a fully charged battery) is 25.7
amps, 11.14 volts (under load), 285
watts, and 19,000 rpm. The actual power
loading at those parameters is 11.7C,
which is just less than this pack’s
maximum rating.
The final aircraft weight was 23.3
ounces. At 285 watts, that works out to
an incredible 196 watts per pound. Wow!
The recommended CG location is 6
inches forward from the wing TE. At that
location, two holes are molded into the
lower foam surface; they provide finger
grips that make it easier to hand launch
the airplane. In the center of each hole is
a circle that marks the exact CG location.
The Stryker’s designers did an excellent
job; it balances perfectly from the
factory.
An E-flite 25-amp brushless ESC,
with a BEC, is supplied. It comes with
the following factory default settings:
three Li-Poly cell low-voltage cutoff,
brake is inactive, four-pole or more motor
timing, and auto setting throttle input
range.
The low-voltage cutoff is 3.05 volts
per cell. When that level is reached, the
motor will pulse repeatedly as a warning
that it is time to land.
You can program this ESC for many
special functions instead of using the
factory default settings. The instruction
sheet is complete and easy to follow.
Programming is accomplished by moving
the transmitter throttle stick in prescribed
sequences while listening to audible
beeps from the ESC.
Flying: Flying the Stryker at 196 watts
per pound was nothing short of
sensational! The minute my aircraft was
launched, all activity at the flying field
stopped so people could watch.
The instructions recommend that a
person hand launches while the pilot
keeps both of his or her hands on the
transmitter. The suggestion is to launch
the airplane with a strong thrust, with
the motor off. That provides less of a
chance of getting a launcher’s hand
caught in the propeller (which is at the
rear of the wing). As soon as the model
leaves your launcher’s hand, go to full
power and hang on!
I quickly reduced power and set my
trims. Then I switched to low rate on the
dual-rate switch. That placed the aileron
and elevator controls at lower travel,
which made for less-sensitive controls at
high speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:57 AM Page 71
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/05
Page Numbers: 68,69,70,71,72
A fast,
aerobatic,
electricpowered
RTF sport
flier
68 MODEL AVIATION
BOB ABERLE
Plane Talk: ParkZone F-27C Stryker RTF
THE PARKZONE F-27C Stryker is
probably one of the most complete electricpowered
RTFs on the RC hobby market.
This all-foam, delta-wing aircraft is offered
in two versions, one of which is the full-up
RTF (catalog item PKZ4200). It comes with
an almost completely assembled airframe,
factory-installed RC and electric power
systems, battery, charger, RC transmitter,
and batteries for that transmitter.
The other Stryker is the “Plug & Play”
version (catalog item PKZ4275). It is the
same aircraft as the RTF and it is
assembled, but it comes only with the motor
and ESC. You must supply your own radio
system and install it. You will also need a
battery pack and charger. This version sells
for $179.99.
For review purposes I was provided with
the complete RTF package. Everything I
needed came in one large shipping box. When
I opened it, I was surprised to find that the
only items requiring assembly were the two
vertical fins and the nose. If provided already
assembled, these components would have
required a much larger shipping box.
The assembly took me approximately 15
minutes. I put five-minute epoxy on the nose
section and fins. Although the fins snap in
place and the nose has double-stick tape, the
addition of the cement provides a slight extra
margin of safety when the aircraft is flown at
high speeds.
Eight alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries
are included for the 72 MHz FM RC dualstick
transmitter. You insert them into the
battery box located at the rear of the
transmitter. The last thing you have to do is
charge the Li-Poly battery pack. An excellent
balance-type Li-Poly charger is provided.
Then it is off to the flying field.
The instructions claim that the Stryker is a
“Charge-and-Fly” park flyer. The charge-andfly
part is true, but I’m not sure I would want
to fly this fast aircraft in a parking lot unless it
were huge and in a generally remote area. At
19,000 rpm, its sound in flight is
“noticeable”!
Because of its high-performance
characteristics, this model is not intended for
beginner pilots. However, an average sport
flier with some flying time should be able to
handle it.
The F-27C, which has basically a flyingor
delta-wing configuration, is constructed
from a single molded piece of Z-Foam
material. There is an easily removable
battery-compartment hatch cover up
forward. Directly behind that is a hatch that
covers the receiver and ESC and the servo
cables coming in from the servos mounted
in the outer wing panels.
The author at the controls; does he look nervous? At 196 watts per pound, a pilot must
concentrate—especially when coming out of a near-vertical dive at full throttle. This is a
sensational aircraft.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:36 AM Page 68
May 2008 69
Static photos by the author Flight photos by Joe Cabana
Above: The factory-installed ParkZone
motor is a direct drive, six-pole, 1,880 Kv
brushless inrunner. The included 6 x 4
propeller is plastic.
Left: The model is molded from Z-Foam
and comes essentially fully assembled
with the RC and power systems installed.
The supplied ParkZone four-channel, 72 MHz, FM transmitter uses
eight AA-size batteries. Those provided are the heavy-duty type.
Elevon servos are located on the top of the wing for the best
possible leverage and protection against belly landings.
The forward battery compartment hatch is easy to remove for servicing the battery
pack. Notice the exclusive easy-to-grip battery connectors.
The transmitter case has a dual rate switch
that affects the elevons’ control throw. The
amount of control reduction is set at the
factory and not adjustable.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:37 AM Page 69
70 MODEL AVIATION
A multicell, balance-type Li-Poly charger
is included for foolproof and safe charging
of the included battery. Its output is
adjustable up to a 2-amp current.
This balance charger will work with all ParkZone, HobbyZone, and E-flite Li-Poly
batteries. At left is the two-cell port; at right is the three-cell port.
Two finger holes are molded into the belly for a better grip
when hand launching. The two black holes indicate the CG
location. The Stryker balanced perfectly directly from the
factory.
The nose and two vertical fins are the only
things involved in the final assembly.
Although the nose is taped in place and the
two fins snap in place, the author added
five-minute epoxy for extra strength.
It is best to have someone hand launch the model so the pilot can
have both hands on the control sticks.
This aircraft is capable of flying speeds that exceed 80
mph. Factory-installed elevon hinges are a heavy-duty
type, to handle the flying speeds.
05sig3.QXD 3/25/08 11:39 AM Page 70
May 2008 71
Specifications
Model type: RTF sport/highly aerobatic
Pilot skill level: Intended for more
experienced RC fliers
Wingspan: 37 inches
Wing area: 360 square inches
(approximate)
Weight: 23.3 ounces (with supplied
battery installed)
Wing loading: 9.3 ounces/square foot
Length: 27 inches
Motor: ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv
brushless inrunner (direct drive)
ESC: E-flite 25-amp brushless
programmable, with BEC
Propeller: 6 x 4 plastic (supplied)
Motor current: 25.7 amps (at start)
Motor voltage: 11.14 (under load at
start)
Motor power: 285 watts (at start)
rpm: 19,000 (at start)
Watts/pound: 196
Battery: Three-cell ParkZone 2200 mAh
Li-Poly with balance connector (weighs
5.7 ounces)
Charger: ParkZone 2-3 Cell LiPo
Balancing Charger with 12 VDC input
(supplied)
Radio: Four-channel ParkZone 72 MHz
FM system with dual rate control and
built-in mixer (supplied and installed in the
aircraft, providing proportional elevon
control [mixed ailerons and elevator]).
Receiver is six-channel capable.
Flight duration: Up to 12 minutes, with
throttling, with designated battery pack
Street price: $299.99
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Offered as a complete RTF package or
Plug & Play version
• Minimal assembly required
• Li-Poly balance charger included
• Possible flight speeds of more than
80 mph
• Durable Z-Foam construction
-•
The two control rates are not
adjustable.
This second hatch is pinned in place,
and normally there would be no need to
remove it. Both hatch covers contain
plenty of airholes to dissipate any heat that
is generated during flight.
The entire aircraft is prepainted in a
neat and racy color scheme, and it arrives
with decals already applied. The elevon
hinges are a heavy-duty type, to take the
air loads. The combination of color
scheme, fast flying speed, and sound in
flight will make the Stryker a big hit with
modelers and spectators at the local flying
field.
The provided four-channel RC system
is the Horizon Hobby ParkZone house
brand. Although it comes with alkaline
nonrechargeable battery cells (AA size), it
appears to have a charging jack. You may
be able to substitute rechargeable NiMH
cells later and plug in an external charger.
The transmitter has servo-reversing
functions and a mixer function that will let
you operate the elevons on the Stryker.
The elevons provide aileron (roll) control
and elevator (pitch) control.
The transmitter also has a dual rate
function that is operated by a switch
located on the top right corner. If you
move the switch to the rear, you get a low
control rate (plus or minus 5/16 inch on
aileron and 3/16 inch on elevator). These
low rates (less control) are desirable when
flying at top or high speeds.
If you move the switch forward, you
get high or full rate control (7/16 inch for
ailerons and 5/16 inch for elevator). (That’s
5/16 inch on either side of the neutral
position.) You would use that rate for
takeoffs and landings.
The two control rates are preselected
for this aircraft and are not adjustable.
This is a complete RC system and, as
such, could easily be used later to fly other
types of model aircraft.
The motor that comes factory mounted
is a ParkZone six-pole, 1880 Kv brushless
inrunner. It is run direct drive; no gearing
is necessary. The provided propeller is a
gray plastic 6 x 4. Since this is a pusher
configuration, the propeller must be
reversed. When you start the motor, the air
should be blowing out the rear of the
aircraft.
For a battery to power this motor,
Horizon provides a ParkZone three-cell
Li-Poly type with a capacity of 2200 mAh
and a power capability of 12C continuous.
The pack weighs 5.7 ounces. It comes
wired with a special connector that allows
you individual access to each of the three
cells.
The charger supplied with the model is
a balanced type with a mating connector
(to connect to the battery). This charger
can accommodate two- and three-cell
packs that employ the same ParkZone
proprietary balance connector.
Charge current is adjustable up to 2
amps when operated from a 12-volt DC
input. For this 2200 (2.2 amp-hour)
battery, you will need the full 2.0 amps to
be able to recharge the pack completely
in roughly one hour’s time.
With this propeller, motor, and battery
combination, the current at full throttle
(and a fully charged battery) is 25.7
amps, 11.14 volts (under load), 285
watts, and 19,000 rpm. The actual power
loading at those parameters is 11.7C,
which is just less than this pack’s
maximum rating.
The final aircraft weight was 23.3
ounces. At 285 watts, that works out to
an incredible 196 watts per pound. Wow!
The recommended CG location is 6
inches forward from the wing TE. At that
location, two holes are molded into the
lower foam surface; they provide finger
grips that make it easier to hand launch
the airplane. In the center of each hole is
a circle that marks the exact CG location.
The Stryker’s designers did an excellent
job; it balances perfectly from the
factory.
An E-flite 25-amp brushless ESC,
with a BEC, is supplied. It comes with
the following factory default settings:
three Li-Poly cell low-voltage cutoff,
brake is inactive, four-pole or more motor
timing, and auto setting throttle input
range.
The low-voltage cutoff is 3.05 volts
per cell. When that level is reached, the
motor will pulse repeatedly as a warning
that it is time to land.
You can program this ESC for many
special functions instead of using the
factory default settings. The instruction
sheet is complete and easy to follow.
Programming is accomplished by moving
the transmitter throttle stick in prescribed
sequences while listening to audible
beeps from the ESC.
Flying: Flying the Stryker at 196 watts
per pound was nothing short of
sensational! The minute my aircraft was
launched, all activity at the flying field
stopped so people could watch.
The instructions recommend that a
person hand launches while the pilot
keeps both of his or her hands on the
transmitter. The suggestion is to launch
the airplane with a strong thrust, with
the motor off. That provides less of a
chance of getting a launcher’s hand
caught in the propeller (which is at the
rear of the wing). As soon as the model
leaves your launcher’s hand, go to full
power and hang on!
I quickly reduced power and set my
trims. Then I switched to low rate on the
dual-rate switch. That placed the aileron
and elevator controls at lower travel,
which made for less-sensitive controls at
high speeds.
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