Bob Aberle
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Funtec Models Sky Scooter
Pro II
Pros:
• Complete RTF package at an
attractive price.
• Well-thought-out design.
• Docile flying characteristics with
good slow-speed capabilities.
Performance can be enhanced with a
larger-capacity battery pack. (See text.)
Cons:
• Instructions did not specify a centerof-
gravity point. It was determined to
be 41⁄4 inches back from the wing’s
leading edge. (See text.)
The Sky Scooter Pro II is a spirited performer.
A close-up shows the 3:1-ratio motor gearbox and simulated
front windshield made to look like a pair of sunglasses.
ROUGHLY THREE YEARS ago the
Funtec Models division of Hitec RCD
introduced its Sky Scooter Ready-to-Fly
(RTF) Radio Control (RC) electric sport
flier. It was an immediate success as a
beginner’s trainer. Surprisingly, it was also
a big hit with many RC clubs which
bought the Scooter in quantities and staged
single-model contests for the fun of it.
After the initial introduction, Funtec
came out with an enhanced version that it
called the Sky Scooter Pro. More recently
a third version was released, known as the
Sky Scooter Pro II.
For previous Sky Scooter pilots, I’ll
mention the differences in this latest
version. Most important is that it now has
three-channel control, including motor
throttle and the ability to cut off the
motor at any time in the flight.
The propeller diameter and pitch have
been increased, producing more thrust at
a higher current level (it was 5.6 amps on
the original and is now 7.9 amps). To still
provide reasonable flight times, the
battery pack was increased from 300 to
600 mAh-capacity cells. Funtec also
removed the “safety switch” located
underneath the model’s nose since throttle
control is now employed. Everything else
is as it was on the original version.
The assembled model spans 32 inches, weighs 19.2 ounces, has 275 square inches of
wing area, and has a wing loading of 10.2 ounces per square foot.
82 MODEL AVIATION
What You Get: The Sky Scooter Pro II is
classified as an RTF. You will not need
cements or even a modeler’s knife to
assemble this model. The one shipping box
contains essentially everything necessary to
fly this aircraft, including a complete radio
system and an electric motor that is already
installed.
Also included is the matching RC
transmitter, a rechargeable aircraft battery,
and a field-type fast charger. The only
thing you will have to purchase is a set of
eight AA-size alkaline batteries to power
the transmitter.
From opening the box to the point of
being ready to fly takes less than 30
minutes. As soon as you get the aircraft
battery charged, you can make that first
flight. Best of all, this entire airplane,
radio, battery, and charger can be
purchased for an average street price of
less than $200.
More About the Scooter: The elevator
and vertical and horizontal stabilizers are
manufactured from a polystyrene foamboard
material, and the rest of the model is
constructed from a molded expanded-
March 2004 83
In this shot you can see how the receiver, motor speed controller, and batteries are
nestled into the side of the model’s molded foam fuselage.
Supplied timer-operated, field-type fast charger has 2-amp
output. Also shown is seven-cell 600 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.
The review Sky Scooter Pro II came with the two large decal sheets shown to cheer up
all the white foam. Be advised that these are soon to be revised.
The Sky Scooter’s basic components are laid out as received.
The motor and receiver come already installed.
On the author’s Hitec RCD Focus singlestick,
AM, three-channel transmitter, a
lever on the back operates the throttle.
Photos courtesy the author
84 MODEL AVIATION
polypropylene-foam-derivative white foam.
The best way to describe this material is
that it bounces more than it breaks; it easily
absorbs impact loads.
I measured the wingspan at 32 inches
and the wing area at 275 square inches.
With a total weight of 19.2 ounces, the
wing loading works out to 10.1
ounces/square foot. The overall length is 32
inches.
The electric motor is a Speed 400 size
with a 6-volt winding and a 3:1 gearbox.
The battery supplied consists of seven 600
mAh Ni-Cd cells weighing 5.6 ounces.
Connectors employed on the model, the
battery, and the charger are the Tamiya
variety, more often found in the RC car
hobby. You could easily change to
Anderson Power Poles if you preferred.
The cutoff switch on the original
Scooter has been replaced by a proportional
electric motor speed controller (Hitec
model SP-1010). This controller includes a
Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) with a
cutoff. That means the one rechargeable
battery onboard the Scooter supplies power
to the motor and the RC system in flight.
As the battery charge wears down
during the flight, a voltage level will be
reached at which point the motor is cut off.
However, a safe amount of power will still
be available to operate the RC system as
you set up and make a safe landing.
The supplied radio system is the popular
Hitec RCD Focus II AM single stick with
three channel functions. Keep in mind that
it is AM—not FM. There is nothing wrong
with AM, but it is not as common in the RC
hobby. The only thing you must remember
is that AM and FM can’t “talk” to one
another. If you try at some later time to
operate an FM RC receiver with this AM
transmitter, it won’t work. So just make
sure you keep this system for AM to AM
(receiver and transmitter).
Along with the receiver, Funtec provides
two of the Hitec RCD HS-55 microservos.
As were the receiver and speed controller,
these servos are provided already installed
in the model.
Assembly: There is nothing to it! On the
wing you must hook up the aileron-servo
control rods to the control horns on the two
ailerons. On the servo output arm use the
innermost holes. At the control-horn end,
go to the outermost position on both sides.
Adjustable clevises are provided at the
aileron ends of the rod. When you get the
radio turned on and with the aileron trim in
the neutral position, adjust these two
clevises so that both ailerons are exactly in
the neutral position. Final aileron control
throw was 1⁄4 inch either side of neutral.
Insert the stabilizer (with the prehinged
elevator) into the slot at the rear of the
fuselage. A small piece of double-stick tape
holds the stabilizer in position. Connect the
premade control-rod wire from the elevatorservo
output arm to the control horn back at
the elevator. In this case I used the
innermost hole on the servo output arm and
the second hole from the outside on the
elevator control horn. Final elevator control
throw was 3⁄8 inch either side of the neutral
position.
Funtec has advised that these control
throws can be exaggerated (increased!) for
the experienced pilot who wants to do some
more aggressive aerobatic-type flying.
Fully extend the receiver antenna wire
and follow the photos to route this wire out
the rear of the fuselage. Try to keep this
wire away from the servos. The last step is
to install a wooden wing hold-down dowel.
Place the wing in position on the fuselage
and, while doing this, route the aileron
servo cable down toward the receiver. The
servo connector at the end of the aileron
cable must be plugged into the No. 1
position on the receiver.
The wing is held in position at the
trailing edge with the help of several rubber
bands. Since the battery is accessible from
the outside of the fuselage, the wing can
conveniently be left attached to the
fuselage.
The only thing remaining is to affix the
paste-on decals to the Scooter. This is
probably the most time-consuming part of
the entire assembly. Many friends have
“dolled up” their Scooters with water
soluble acrylic paints. Funtec regularly
uses light coats of spray enamel on its
demo aircraft. Keep in mind that any extra
finishing does add weight, so don’t get
carried away painting the entire model.
Since this model comes with everything
in place, there was no mention of a centerof-
gravity (CG) position in the instructions.
I noted the CG at 41⁄4 inches back from the
wing leading edge at the fuselage side
intersection.
Battery Charging: Funtec provides a
basic field-type battery charger that
operates from your 12-volt car battery.
This is not a peak-detect charger. It
employs a simple timer that determines the
charge period. I measured the charge
current at approximately 2 amps. It
declines as full charge is approached.
With the supplied 600 mAh Ni-Cd-cell
battery, I recommend that you set the timer
for a 20-minute charge period. Funtec
recommends that you use a 30-minuteduration
charge if the battery were run
down to the point where the BEC “kicked
in.” If your battery had some residual
charge, the time period would have to be
reduced; how much is somewhat of a
guess.
If in doubt, keep touching the battery
pack while under charge. When it gets hot
to the touch, stop charging. In the same
regard, right after a flight you will notice
that the battery is quite warm. Please let it
cool for a short period before attempting to
recharge. Your battery will not last long if
it is always charged while hot. Purchasing
an extra battery pack will help provide
many flights while giving the batteries a
chance to cool down.
Flying: This is the fun part. Despite the
new name, the Sky Scooter Pro II is an
excellent RC trainer that is well suited for
that first-time flier. Because of its small
size and relatively light power loading, it
can easily be flown in a school yard or a
large parking lot.
From a safety standpoint, always be
careful that you don’t fly in close
proximity to another flying site. If you and
someone else are on the same RC channel,
one or both of you might suffer
interference and the model(s) could crash.
As a beginner, your best choice is to
seek the aid of an experienced RC pilot
who can help you get through those first
few flight sessions. Your local hobby
dealer can usually put you on the trail of a
local RC club. These clubs will usually
have several qualified instructor pilots who
can train you in the safety and flying
aspects of your model.
Since the Sky Scooter doesn’t have a
landing gear, you must always hand launch
it. Initially you would be better off having
someone else launch so that your hand is
on the control stick to operate the aileron
and elevator.
Rest your other hand’s index finger on
the throttle lever, which is located at the
upper rear of the transmitter case. Pull your
finger toward you for low throttle or cutoff.
Move it away from you for full throttle.
Try to learn to throttle back during
flight. Lower speed means lower motor
current and longer flight time. The Scooter
can be flown at surprisingly slow speeds
and still not stall. This is an excellent flight
characteristic for a beginner’s aircraft.
Generally I obtained roughly six-minute
flights with a small amount of throttling
back.
As you get more into the hobby, it is
possible to go up to a larger-capacity
battery pack to obtain more duration, but
doing that might mean an increase in
weight. Everything in electric power is a
basic trade-off involving battery capacity,
total model weight, and motor current.
Even though the Scooter has aileron
control, it isn’t that fast in flight, so don’t
think your model will be doing many
aerobatic maneuvers with the supplied
power system. You can execute a loop by
diving the model to gain speed. Aileron
rolls can be done, but only with a great
deal of coordinated elevator correction. I’d
rather not see a beginner try this. Landings
are easy because of the Scooter’s excellent
slow-flying characteristics.
Using the eight nonrechargeable AA
alkaline batteries in the transmitter is the
easiest thing with which to start. You will
get a lot of service from those batteries.
But you do have the option of installing
loose rechargeable Ni-Cd or NiMH cells or
you can install a complete Ni-Cd pack with
a cable as supplied by Hitec RCD (part
number 58207).
A charging jack is provided in the
transmitter. You can purchase a charger
(model number CG-25A) from Hitec RCD.
(It’s Hitec part number 43025 if obtained
from a Hitec equipment dealer.)
Although intended primarily for the
beginner, many clubs have been buying the
Scooters and “souping” them up for local
fun-type contests. They do everything from
balloon-breaking events to pylon races.
Some have even installed several of the
smaller-size brushless motors, which can
provide wonderful aerobatic maneuvering.
The Hitec Focus II RC system can have
considerable utility beyond the Scooter.
The system is light enough to control most
of the popular parking-lot/backyard flyers.
The transmitter also has a built-in mixing
circuit that will allow you to mix aileron
and elevator functions for the control of
flying-wing or delta-wing aircraft. There is
much to the little Funtec Sky Scooter Pro
II, be it the aircraft or the RC system. MA
Manufacturer:
Funtec Models:
A division of Hitec RCD
12115 Paine St.
Poway CA 92064
(858) 748-6948
www.hitecrcd.com
88 MODEL AVIATION
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/03
Page Numbers: 82,83,84,88
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/03
Page Numbers: 82,83,84,88
Bob Aberle
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Funtec Models Sky Scooter
Pro II
Pros:
• Complete RTF package at an
attractive price.
• Well-thought-out design.
• Docile flying characteristics with
good slow-speed capabilities.
Performance can be enhanced with a
larger-capacity battery pack. (See text.)
Cons:
• Instructions did not specify a centerof-
gravity point. It was determined to
be 41⁄4 inches back from the wing’s
leading edge. (See text.)
The Sky Scooter Pro II is a spirited performer.
A close-up shows the 3:1-ratio motor gearbox and simulated
front windshield made to look like a pair of sunglasses.
ROUGHLY THREE YEARS ago the
Funtec Models division of Hitec RCD
introduced its Sky Scooter Ready-to-Fly
(RTF) Radio Control (RC) electric sport
flier. It was an immediate success as a
beginner’s trainer. Surprisingly, it was also
a big hit with many RC clubs which
bought the Scooter in quantities and staged
single-model contests for the fun of it.
After the initial introduction, Funtec
came out with an enhanced version that it
called the Sky Scooter Pro. More recently
a third version was released, known as the
Sky Scooter Pro II.
For previous Sky Scooter pilots, I’ll
mention the differences in this latest
version. Most important is that it now has
three-channel control, including motor
throttle and the ability to cut off the
motor at any time in the flight.
The propeller diameter and pitch have
been increased, producing more thrust at
a higher current level (it was 5.6 amps on
the original and is now 7.9 amps). To still
provide reasonable flight times, the
battery pack was increased from 300 to
600 mAh-capacity cells. Funtec also
removed the “safety switch” located
underneath the model’s nose since throttle
control is now employed. Everything else
is as it was on the original version.
The assembled model spans 32 inches, weighs 19.2 ounces, has 275 square inches of
wing area, and has a wing loading of 10.2 ounces per square foot.
82 MODEL AVIATION
What You Get: The Sky Scooter Pro II is
classified as an RTF. You will not need
cements or even a modeler’s knife to
assemble this model. The one shipping box
contains essentially everything necessary to
fly this aircraft, including a complete radio
system and an electric motor that is already
installed.
Also included is the matching RC
transmitter, a rechargeable aircraft battery,
and a field-type fast charger. The only
thing you will have to purchase is a set of
eight AA-size alkaline batteries to power
the transmitter.
From opening the box to the point of
being ready to fly takes less than 30
minutes. As soon as you get the aircraft
battery charged, you can make that first
flight. Best of all, this entire airplane,
radio, battery, and charger can be
purchased for an average street price of
less than $200.
More About the Scooter: The elevator
and vertical and horizontal stabilizers are
manufactured from a polystyrene foamboard
material, and the rest of the model is
constructed from a molded expanded-
March 2004 83
In this shot you can see how the receiver, motor speed controller, and batteries are
nestled into the side of the model’s molded foam fuselage.
Supplied timer-operated, field-type fast charger has 2-amp
output. Also shown is seven-cell 600 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.
The review Sky Scooter Pro II came with the two large decal sheets shown to cheer up
all the white foam. Be advised that these are soon to be revised.
The Sky Scooter’s basic components are laid out as received.
The motor and receiver come already installed.
On the author’s Hitec RCD Focus singlestick,
AM, three-channel transmitter, a
lever on the back operates the throttle.
Photos courtesy the author
84 MODEL AVIATION
polypropylene-foam-derivative white foam.
The best way to describe this material is
that it bounces more than it breaks; it easily
absorbs impact loads.
I measured the wingspan at 32 inches
and the wing area at 275 square inches.
With a total weight of 19.2 ounces, the
wing loading works out to 10.1
ounces/square foot. The overall length is 32
inches.
The electric motor is a Speed 400 size
with a 6-volt winding and a 3:1 gearbox.
The battery supplied consists of seven 600
mAh Ni-Cd cells weighing 5.6 ounces.
Connectors employed on the model, the
battery, and the charger are the Tamiya
variety, more often found in the RC car
hobby. You could easily change to
Anderson Power Poles if you preferred.
The cutoff switch on the original
Scooter has been replaced by a proportional
electric motor speed controller (Hitec
model SP-1010). This controller includes a
Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) with a
cutoff. That means the one rechargeable
battery onboard the Scooter supplies power
to the motor and the RC system in flight.
As the battery charge wears down
during the flight, a voltage level will be
reached at which point the motor is cut off.
However, a safe amount of power will still
be available to operate the RC system as
you set up and make a safe landing.
The supplied radio system is the popular
Hitec RCD Focus II AM single stick with
three channel functions. Keep in mind that
it is AM—not FM. There is nothing wrong
with AM, but it is not as common in the RC
hobby. The only thing you must remember
is that AM and FM can’t “talk” to one
another. If you try at some later time to
operate an FM RC receiver with this AM
transmitter, it won’t work. So just make
sure you keep this system for AM to AM
(receiver and transmitter).
Along with the receiver, Funtec provides
two of the Hitec RCD HS-55 microservos.
As were the receiver and speed controller,
these servos are provided already installed
in the model.
Assembly: There is nothing to it! On the
wing you must hook up the aileron-servo
control rods to the control horns on the two
ailerons. On the servo output arm use the
innermost holes. At the control-horn end,
go to the outermost position on both sides.
Adjustable clevises are provided at the
aileron ends of the rod. When you get the
radio turned on and with the aileron trim in
the neutral position, adjust these two
clevises so that both ailerons are exactly in
the neutral position. Final aileron control
throw was 1⁄4 inch either side of neutral.
Insert the stabilizer (with the prehinged
elevator) into the slot at the rear of the
fuselage. A small piece of double-stick tape
holds the stabilizer in position. Connect the
premade control-rod wire from the elevatorservo
output arm to the control horn back at
the elevator. In this case I used the
innermost hole on the servo output arm and
the second hole from the outside on the
elevator control horn. Final elevator control
throw was 3⁄8 inch either side of the neutral
position.
Funtec has advised that these control
throws can be exaggerated (increased!) for
the experienced pilot who wants to do some
more aggressive aerobatic-type flying.
Fully extend the receiver antenna wire
and follow the photos to route this wire out
the rear of the fuselage. Try to keep this
wire away from the servos. The last step is
to install a wooden wing hold-down dowel.
Place the wing in position on the fuselage
and, while doing this, route the aileron
servo cable down toward the receiver. The
servo connector at the end of the aileron
cable must be plugged into the No. 1
position on the receiver.
The wing is held in position at the
trailing edge with the help of several rubber
bands. Since the battery is accessible from
the outside of the fuselage, the wing can
conveniently be left attached to the
fuselage.
The only thing remaining is to affix the
paste-on decals to the Scooter. This is
probably the most time-consuming part of
the entire assembly. Many friends have
“dolled up” their Scooters with water
soluble acrylic paints. Funtec regularly
uses light coats of spray enamel on its
demo aircraft. Keep in mind that any extra
finishing does add weight, so don’t get
carried away painting the entire model.
Since this model comes with everything
in place, there was no mention of a centerof-
gravity (CG) position in the instructions.
I noted the CG at 41⁄4 inches back from the
wing leading edge at the fuselage side
intersection.
Battery Charging: Funtec provides a
basic field-type battery charger that
operates from your 12-volt car battery.
This is not a peak-detect charger. It
employs a simple timer that determines the
charge period. I measured the charge
current at approximately 2 amps. It
declines as full charge is approached.
With the supplied 600 mAh Ni-Cd-cell
battery, I recommend that you set the timer
for a 20-minute charge period. Funtec
recommends that you use a 30-minuteduration
charge if the battery were run
down to the point where the BEC “kicked
in.” If your battery had some residual
charge, the time period would have to be
reduced; how much is somewhat of a
guess.
If in doubt, keep touching the battery
pack while under charge. When it gets hot
to the touch, stop charging. In the same
regard, right after a flight you will notice
that the battery is quite warm. Please let it
cool for a short period before attempting to
recharge. Your battery will not last long if
it is always charged while hot. Purchasing
an extra battery pack will help provide
many flights while giving the batteries a
chance to cool down.
Flying: This is the fun part. Despite the
new name, the Sky Scooter Pro II is an
excellent RC trainer that is well suited for
that first-time flier. Because of its small
size and relatively light power loading, it
can easily be flown in a school yard or a
large parking lot.
From a safety standpoint, always be
careful that you don’t fly in close
proximity to another flying site. If you and
someone else are on the same RC channel,
one or both of you might suffer
interference and the model(s) could crash.
As a beginner, your best choice is to
seek the aid of an experienced RC pilot
who can help you get through those first
few flight sessions. Your local hobby
dealer can usually put you on the trail of a
local RC club. These clubs will usually
have several qualified instructor pilots who
can train you in the safety and flying
aspects of your model.
Since the Sky Scooter doesn’t have a
landing gear, you must always hand launch
it. Initially you would be better off having
someone else launch so that your hand is
on the control stick to operate the aileron
and elevator.
Rest your other hand’s index finger on
the throttle lever, which is located at the
upper rear of the transmitter case. Pull your
finger toward you for low throttle or cutoff.
Move it away from you for full throttle.
Try to learn to throttle back during
flight. Lower speed means lower motor
current and longer flight time. The Scooter
can be flown at surprisingly slow speeds
and still not stall. This is an excellent flight
characteristic for a beginner’s aircraft.
Generally I obtained roughly six-minute
flights with a small amount of throttling
back.
As you get more into the hobby, it is
possible to go up to a larger-capacity
battery pack to obtain more duration, but
doing that might mean an increase in
weight. Everything in electric power is a
basic trade-off involving battery capacity,
total model weight, and motor current.
Even though the Scooter has aileron
control, it isn’t that fast in flight, so don’t
think your model will be doing many
aerobatic maneuvers with the supplied
power system. You can execute a loop by
diving the model to gain speed. Aileron
rolls can be done, but only with a great
deal of coordinated elevator correction. I’d
rather not see a beginner try this. Landings
are easy because of the Scooter’s excellent
slow-flying characteristics.
Using the eight nonrechargeable AA
alkaline batteries in the transmitter is the
easiest thing with which to start. You will
get a lot of service from those batteries.
But you do have the option of installing
loose rechargeable Ni-Cd or NiMH cells or
you can install a complete Ni-Cd pack with
a cable as supplied by Hitec RCD (part
number 58207).
A charging jack is provided in the
transmitter. You can purchase a charger
(model number CG-25A) from Hitec RCD.
(It’s Hitec part number 43025 if obtained
from a Hitec equipment dealer.)
Although intended primarily for the
beginner, many clubs have been buying the
Scooters and “souping” them up for local
fun-type contests. They do everything from
balloon-breaking events to pylon races.
Some have even installed several of the
smaller-size brushless motors, which can
provide wonderful aerobatic maneuvering.
The Hitec Focus II RC system can have
considerable utility beyond the Scooter.
The system is light enough to control most
of the popular parking-lot/backyard flyers.
The transmitter also has a built-in mixing
circuit that will allow you to mix aileron
and elevator functions for the control of
flying-wing or delta-wing aircraft. There is
much to the little Funtec Sky Scooter Pro
II, be it the aircraft or the RC system. MA
Manufacturer:
Funtec Models:
A division of Hitec RCD
12115 Paine St.
Poway CA 92064
(858) 748-6948
www.hitecrcd.com
88 MODEL AVIATION
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/03
Page Numbers: 82,83,84,88
Bob Aberle
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Funtec Models Sky Scooter
Pro II
Pros:
• Complete RTF package at an
attractive price.
• Well-thought-out design.
• Docile flying characteristics with
good slow-speed capabilities.
Performance can be enhanced with a
larger-capacity battery pack. (See text.)
Cons:
• Instructions did not specify a centerof-
gravity point. It was determined to
be 41⁄4 inches back from the wing’s
leading edge. (See text.)
The Sky Scooter Pro II is a spirited performer.
A close-up shows the 3:1-ratio motor gearbox and simulated
front windshield made to look like a pair of sunglasses.
ROUGHLY THREE YEARS ago the
Funtec Models division of Hitec RCD
introduced its Sky Scooter Ready-to-Fly
(RTF) Radio Control (RC) electric sport
flier. It was an immediate success as a
beginner’s trainer. Surprisingly, it was also
a big hit with many RC clubs which
bought the Scooter in quantities and staged
single-model contests for the fun of it.
After the initial introduction, Funtec
came out with an enhanced version that it
called the Sky Scooter Pro. More recently
a third version was released, known as the
Sky Scooter Pro II.
For previous Sky Scooter pilots, I’ll
mention the differences in this latest
version. Most important is that it now has
three-channel control, including motor
throttle and the ability to cut off the
motor at any time in the flight.
The propeller diameter and pitch have
been increased, producing more thrust at
a higher current level (it was 5.6 amps on
the original and is now 7.9 amps). To still
provide reasonable flight times, the
battery pack was increased from 300 to
600 mAh-capacity cells. Funtec also
removed the “safety switch” located
underneath the model’s nose since throttle
control is now employed. Everything else
is as it was on the original version.
The assembled model spans 32 inches, weighs 19.2 ounces, has 275 square inches of
wing area, and has a wing loading of 10.2 ounces per square foot.
82 MODEL AVIATION
What You Get: The Sky Scooter Pro II is
classified as an RTF. You will not need
cements or even a modeler’s knife to
assemble this model. The one shipping box
contains essentially everything necessary to
fly this aircraft, including a complete radio
system and an electric motor that is already
installed.
Also included is the matching RC
transmitter, a rechargeable aircraft battery,
and a field-type fast charger. The only
thing you will have to purchase is a set of
eight AA-size alkaline batteries to power
the transmitter.
From opening the box to the point of
being ready to fly takes less than 30
minutes. As soon as you get the aircraft
battery charged, you can make that first
flight. Best of all, this entire airplane,
radio, battery, and charger can be
purchased for an average street price of
less than $200.
More About the Scooter: The elevator
and vertical and horizontal stabilizers are
manufactured from a polystyrene foamboard
material, and the rest of the model is
constructed from a molded expanded-
March 2004 83
In this shot you can see how the receiver, motor speed controller, and batteries are
nestled into the side of the model’s molded foam fuselage.
Supplied timer-operated, field-type fast charger has 2-amp
output. Also shown is seven-cell 600 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.
The review Sky Scooter Pro II came with the two large decal sheets shown to cheer up
all the white foam. Be advised that these are soon to be revised.
The Sky Scooter’s basic components are laid out as received.
The motor and receiver come already installed.
On the author’s Hitec RCD Focus singlestick,
AM, three-channel transmitter, a
lever on the back operates the throttle.
Photos courtesy the author
84 MODEL AVIATION
polypropylene-foam-derivative white foam.
The best way to describe this material is
that it bounces more than it breaks; it easily
absorbs impact loads.
I measured the wingspan at 32 inches
and the wing area at 275 square inches.
With a total weight of 19.2 ounces, the
wing loading works out to 10.1
ounces/square foot. The overall length is 32
inches.
The electric motor is a Speed 400 size
with a 6-volt winding and a 3:1 gearbox.
The battery supplied consists of seven 600
mAh Ni-Cd cells weighing 5.6 ounces.
Connectors employed on the model, the
battery, and the charger are the Tamiya
variety, more often found in the RC car
hobby. You could easily change to
Anderson Power Poles if you preferred.
The cutoff switch on the original
Scooter has been replaced by a proportional
electric motor speed controller (Hitec
model SP-1010). This controller includes a
Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) with a
cutoff. That means the one rechargeable
battery onboard the Scooter supplies power
to the motor and the RC system in flight.
As the battery charge wears down
during the flight, a voltage level will be
reached at which point the motor is cut off.
However, a safe amount of power will still
be available to operate the RC system as
you set up and make a safe landing.
The supplied radio system is the popular
Hitec RCD Focus II AM single stick with
three channel functions. Keep in mind that
it is AM—not FM. There is nothing wrong
with AM, but it is not as common in the RC
hobby. The only thing you must remember
is that AM and FM can’t “talk” to one
another. If you try at some later time to
operate an FM RC receiver with this AM
transmitter, it won’t work. So just make
sure you keep this system for AM to AM
(receiver and transmitter).
Along with the receiver, Funtec provides
two of the Hitec RCD HS-55 microservos.
As were the receiver and speed controller,
these servos are provided already installed
in the model.
Assembly: There is nothing to it! On the
wing you must hook up the aileron-servo
control rods to the control horns on the two
ailerons. On the servo output arm use the
innermost holes. At the control-horn end,
go to the outermost position on both sides.
Adjustable clevises are provided at the
aileron ends of the rod. When you get the
radio turned on and with the aileron trim in
the neutral position, adjust these two
clevises so that both ailerons are exactly in
the neutral position. Final aileron control
throw was 1⁄4 inch either side of neutral.
Insert the stabilizer (with the prehinged
elevator) into the slot at the rear of the
fuselage. A small piece of double-stick tape
holds the stabilizer in position. Connect the
premade control-rod wire from the elevatorservo
output arm to the control horn back at
the elevator. In this case I used the
innermost hole on the servo output arm and
the second hole from the outside on the
elevator control horn. Final elevator control
throw was 3⁄8 inch either side of the neutral
position.
Funtec has advised that these control
throws can be exaggerated (increased!) for
the experienced pilot who wants to do some
more aggressive aerobatic-type flying.
Fully extend the receiver antenna wire
and follow the photos to route this wire out
the rear of the fuselage. Try to keep this
wire away from the servos. The last step is
to install a wooden wing hold-down dowel.
Place the wing in position on the fuselage
and, while doing this, route the aileron
servo cable down toward the receiver. The
servo connector at the end of the aileron
cable must be plugged into the No. 1
position on the receiver.
The wing is held in position at the
trailing edge with the help of several rubber
bands. Since the battery is accessible from
the outside of the fuselage, the wing can
conveniently be left attached to the
fuselage.
The only thing remaining is to affix the
paste-on decals to the Scooter. This is
probably the most time-consuming part of
the entire assembly. Many friends have
“dolled up” their Scooters with water
soluble acrylic paints. Funtec regularly
uses light coats of spray enamel on its
demo aircraft. Keep in mind that any extra
finishing does add weight, so don’t get
carried away painting the entire model.
Since this model comes with everything
in place, there was no mention of a centerof-
gravity (CG) position in the instructions.
I noted the CG at 41⁄4 inches back from the
wing leading edge at the fuselage side
intersection.
Battery Charging: Funtec provides a
basic field-type battery charger that
operates from your 12-volt car battery.
This is not a peak-detect charger. It
employs a simple timer that determines the
charge period. I measured the charge
current at approximately 2 amps. It
declines as full charge is approached.
With the supplied 600 mAh Ni-Cd-cell
battery, I recommend that you set the timer
for a 20-minute charge period. Funtec
recommends that you use a 30-minuteduration
charge if the battery were run
down to the point where the BEC “kicked
in.” If your battery had some residual
charge, the time period would have to be
reduced; how much is somewhat of a
guess.
If in doubt, keep touching the battery
pack while under charge. When it gets hot
to the touch, stop charging. In the same
regard, right after a flight you will notice
that the battery is quite warm. Please let it
cool for a short period before attempting to
recharge. Your battery will not last long if
it is always charged while hot. Purchasing
an extra battery pack will help provide
many flights while giving the batteries a
chance to cool down.
Flying: This is the fun part. Despite the
new name, the Sky Scooter Pro II is an
excellent RC trainer that is well suited for
that first-time flier. Because of its small
size and relatively light power loading, it
can easily be flown in a school yard or a
large parking lot.
From a safety standpoint, always be
careful that you don’t fly in close
proximity to another flying site. If you and
someone else are on the same RC channel,
one or both of you might suffer
interference and the model(s) could crash.
As a beginner, your best choice is to
seek the aid of an experienced RC pilot
who can help you get through those first
few flight sessions. Your local hobby
dealer can usually put you on the trail of a
local RC club. These clubs will usually
have several qualified instructor pilots who
can train you in the safety and flying
aspects of your model.
Since the Sky Scooter doesn’t have a
landing gear, you must always hand launch
it. Initially you would be better off having
someone else launch so that your hand is
on the control stick to operate the aileron
and elevator.
Rest your other hand’s index finger on
the throttle lever, which is located at the
upper rear of the transmitter case. Pull your
finger toward you for low throttle or cutoff.
Move it away from you for full throttle.
Try to learn to throttle back during
flight. Lower speed means lower motor
current and longer flight time. The Scooter
can be flown at surprisingly slow speeds
and still not stall. This is an excellent flight
characteristic for a beginner’s aircraft.
Generally I obtained roughly six-minute
flights with a small amount of throttling
back.
As you get more into the hobby, it is
possible to go up to a larger-capacity
battery pack to obtain more duration, but
doing that might mean an increase in
weight. Everything in electric power is a
basic trade-off involving battery capacity,
total model weight, and motor current.
Even though the Scooter has aileron
control, it isn’t that fast in flight, so don’t
think your model will be doing many
aerobatic maneuvers with the supplied
power system. You can execute a loop by
diving the model to gain speed. Aileron
rolls can be done, but only with a great
deal of coordinated elevator correction. I’d
rather not see a beginner try this. Landings
are easy because of the Scooter’s excellent
slow-flying characteristics.
Using the eight nonrechargeable AA
alkaline batteries in the transmitter is the
easiest thing with which to start. You will
get a lot of service from those batteries.
But you do have the option of installing
loose rechargeable Ni-Cd or NiMH cells or
you can install a complete Ni-Cd pack with
a cable as supplied by Hitec RCD (part
number 58207).
A charging jack is provided in the
transmitter. You can purchase a charger
(model number CG-25A) from Hitec RCD.
(It’s Hitec part number 43025 if obtained
from a Hitec equipment dealer.)
Although intended primarily for the
beginner, many clubs have been buying the
Scooters and “souping” them up for local
fun-type contests. They do everything from
balloon-breaking events to pylon races.
Some have even installed several of the
smaller-size brushless motors, which can
provide wonderful aerobatic maneuvering.
The Hitec Focus II RC system can have
considerable utility beyond the Scooter.
The system is light enough to control most
of the popular parking-lot/backyard flyers.
The transmitter also has a built-in mixing
circuit that will allow you to mix aileron
and elevator functions for the control of
flying-wing or delta-wing aircraft. There is
much to the little Funtec Sky Scooter Pro
II, be it the aircraft or the RC system. MA
Manufacturer:
Funtec Models:
A division of Hitec RCD
12115 Paine St.
Poway CA 92064
(858) 748-6948
www.hitecrcd.com
88 MODEL AVIATION
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/03
Page Numbers: 82,83,84,88
Bob Aberle
P r o d u c t R e v i e w
Funtec Models Sky Scooter
Pro II
Pros:
• Complete RTF package at an
attractive price.
• Well-thought-out design.
• Docile flying characteristics with
good slow-speed capabilities.
Performance can be enhanced with a
larger-capacity battery pack. (See text.)
Cons:
• Instructions did not specify a centerof-
gravity point. It was determined to
be 41⁄4 inches back from the wing’s
leading edge. (See text.)
The Sky Scooter Pro II is a spirited performer.
A close-up shows the 3:1-ratio motor gearbox and simulated
front windshield made to look like a pair of sunglasses.
ROUGHLY THREE YEARS ago the
Funtec Models division of Hitec RCD
introduced its Sky Scooter Ready-to-Fly
(RTF) Radio Control (RC) electric sport
flier. It was an immediate success as a
beginner’s trainer. Surprisingly, it was also
a big hit with many RC clubs which
bought the Scooter in quantities and staged
single-model contests for the fun of it.
After the initial introduction, Funtec
came out with an enhanced version that it
called the Sky Scooter Pro. More recently
a third version was released, known as the
Sky Scooter Pro II.
For previous Sky Scooter pilots, I’ll
mention the differences in this latest
version. Most important is that it now has
three-channel control, including motor
throttle and the ability to cut off the
motor at any time in the flight.
The propeller diameter and pitch have
been increased, producing more thrust at
a higher current level (it was 5.6 amps on
the original and is now 7.9 amps). To still
provide reasonable flight times, the
battery pack was increased from 300 to
600 mAh-capacity cells. Funtec also
removed the “safety switch” located
underneath the model’s nose since throttle
control is now employed. Everything else
is as it was on the original version.
The assembled model spans 32 inches, weighs 19.2 ounces, has 275 square inches of
wing area, and has a wing loading of 10.2 ounces per square foot.
82 MODEL AVIATION
What You Get: The Sky Scooter Pro II is
classified as an RTF. You will not need
cements or even a modeler’s knife to
assemble this model. The one shipping box
contains essentially everything necessary to
fly this aircraft, including a complete radio
system and an electric motor that is already
installed.
Also included is the matching RC
transmitter, a rechargeable aircraft battery,
and a field-type fast charger. The only
thing you will have to purchase is a set of
eight AA-size alkaline batteries to power
the transmitter.
From opening the box to the point of
being ready to fly takes less than 30
minutes. As soon as you get the aircraft
battery charged, you can make that first
flight. Best of all, this entire airplane,
radio, battery, and charger can be
purchased for an average street price of
less than $200.
More About the Scooter: The elevator
and vertical and horizontal stabilizers are
manufactured from a polystyrene foamboard
material, and the rest of the model is
constructed from a molded expanded-
March 2004 83
In this shot you can see how the receiver, motor speed controller, and batteries are
nestled into the side of the model’s molded foam fuselage.
Supplied timer-operated, field-type fast charger has 2-amp
output. Also shown is seven-cell 600 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.
The review Sky Scooter Pro II came with the two large decal sheets shown to cheer up
all the white foam. Be advised that these are soon to be revised.
The Sky Scooter’s basic components are laid out as received.
The motor and receiver come already installed.
On the author’s Hitec RCD Focus singlestick,
AM, three-channel transmitter, a
lever on the back operates the throttle.
Photos courtesy the author
84 MODEL AVIATION
polypropylene-foam-derivative white foam.
The best way to describe this material is
that it bounces more than it breaks; it easily
absorbs impact loads.
I measured the wingspan at 32 inches
and the wing area at 275 square inches.
With a total weight of 19.2 ounces, the
wing loading works out to 10.1
ounces/square foot. The overall length is 32
inches.
The electric motor is a Speed 400 size
with a 6-volt winding and a 3:1 gearbox.
The battery supplied consists of seven 600
mAh Ni-Cd cells weighing 5.6 ounces.
Connectors employed on the model, the
battery, and the charger are the Tamiya
variety, more often found in the RC car
hobby. You could easily change to
Anderson Power Poles if you preferred.
The cutoff switch on the original
Scooter has been replaced by a proportional
electric motor speed controller (Hitec
model SP-1010). This controller includes a
Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) with a
cutoff. That means the one rechargeable
battery onboard the Scooter supplies power
to the motor and the RC system in flight.
As the battery charge wears down
during the flight, a voltage level will be
reached at which point the motor is cut off.
However, a safe amount of power will still
be available to operate the RC system as
you set up and make a safe landing.
The supplied radio system is the popular
Hitec RCD Focus II AM single stick with
three channel functions. Keep in mind that
it is AM—not FM. There is nothing wrong
with AM, but it is not as common in the RC
hobby. The only thing you must remember
is that AM and FM can’t “talk” to one
another. If you try at some later time to
operate an FM RC receiver with this AM
transmitter, it won’t work. So just make
sure you keep this system for AM to AM
(receiver and transmitter).
Along with the receiver, Funtec provides
two of the Hitec RCD HS-55 microservos.
As were the receiver and speed controller,
these servos are provided already installed
in the model.
Assembly: There is nothing to it! On the
wing you must hook up the aileron-servo
control rods to the control horns on the two
ailerons. On the servo output arm use the
innermost holes. At the control-horn end,
go to the outermost position on both sides.
Adjustable clevises are provided at the
aileron ends of the rod. When you get the
radio turned on and with the aileron trim in
the neutral position, adjust these two
clevises so that both ailerons are exactly in
the neutral position. Final aileron control
throw was 1⁄4 inch either side of neutral.
Insert the stabilizer (with the prehinged
elevator) into the slot at the rear of the
fuselage. A small piece of double-stick tape
holds the stabilizer in position. Connect the
premade control-rod wire from the elevatorservo
output arm to the control horn back at
the elevator. In this case I used the
innermost hole on the servo output arm and
the second hole from the outside on the
elevator control horn. Final elevator control
throw was 3⁄8 inch either side of the neutral
position.
Funtec has advised that these control
throws can be exaggerated (increased!) for
the experienced pilot who wants to do some
more aggressive aerobatic-type flying.
Fully extend the receiver antenna wire
and follow the photos to route this wire out
the rear of the fuselage. Try to keep this
wire away from the servos. The last step is
to install a wooden wing hold-down dowel.
Place the wing in position on the fuselage
and, while doing this, route the aileron
servo cable down toward the receiver. The
servo connector at the end of the aileron
cable must be plugged into the No. 1
position on the receiver.
The wing is held in position at the
trailing edge with the help of several rubber
bands. Since the battery is accessible from
the outside of the fuselage, the wing can
conveniently be left attached to the
fuselage.
The only thing remaining is to affix the
paste-on decals to the Scooter. This is
probably the most time-consuming part of
the entire assembly. Many friends have
“dolled up” their Scooters with water
soluble acrylic paints. Funtec regularly
uses light coats of spray enamel on its
demo aircraft. Keep in mind that any extra
finishing does add weight, so don’t get
carried away painting the entire model.
Since this model comes with everything
in place, there was no mention of a centerof-
gravity (CG) position in the instructions.
I noted the CG at 41⁄4 inches back from the
wing leading edge at the fuselage side
intersection.
Battery Charging: Funtec provides a
basic field-type battery charger that
operates from your 12-volt car battery.
This is not a peak-detect charger. It
employs a simple timer that determines the
charge period. I measured the charge
current at approximately 2 amps. It
declines as full charge is approached.
With the supplied 600 mAh Ni-Cd-cell
battery, I recommend that you set the timer
for a 20-minute charge period. Funtec
recommends that you use a 30-minuteduration
charge if the battery were run
down to the point where the BEC “kicked
in.” If your battery had some residual
charge, the time period would have to be
reduced; how much is somewhat of a
guess.
If in doubt, keep touching the battery
pack while under charge. When it gets hot
to the touch, stop charging. In the same
regard, right after a flight you will notice
that the battery is quite warm. Please let it
cool for a short period before attempting to
recharge. Your battery will not last long if
it is always charged while hot. Purchasing
an extra battery pack will help provide
many flights while giving the batteries a
chance to cool down.
Flying: This is the fun part. Despite the
new name, the Sky Scooter Pro II is an
excellent RC trainer that is well suited for
that first-time flier. Because of its small
size and relatively light power loading, it
can easily be flown in a school yard or a
large parking lot.
From a safety standpoint, always be
careful that you don’t fly in close
proximity to another flying site. If you and
someone else are on the same RC channel,
one or both of you might suffer
interference and the model(s) could crash.
As a beginner, your best choice is to
seek the aid of an experienced RC pilot
who can help you get through those first
few flight sessions. Your local hobby
dealer can usually put you on the trail of a
local RC club. These clubs will usually
have several qualified instructor pilots who
can train you in the safety and flying
aspects of your model.
Since the Sky Scooter doesn’t have a
landing gear, you must always hand launch
it. Initially you would be better off having
someone else launch so that your hand is
on the control stick to operate the aileron
and elevator.
Rest your other hand’s index finger on
the throttle lever, which is located at the
upper rear of the transmitter case. Pull your
finger toward you for low throttle or cutoff.
Move it away from you for full throttle.
Try to learn to throttle back during
flight. Lower speed means lower motor
current and longer flight time. The Scooter
can be flown at surprisingly slow speeds
and still not stall. This is an excellent flight
characteristic for a beginner’s aircraft.
Generally I obtained roughly six-minute
flights with a small amount of throttling
back.
As you get more into the hobby, it is
possible to go up to a larger-capacity
battery pack to obtain more duration, but
doing that might mean an increase in
weight. Everything in electric power is a
basic trade-off involving battery capacity,
total model weight, and motor current.
Even though the Scooter has aileron
control, it isn’t that fast in flight, so don’t
think your model will be doing many
aerobatic maneuvers with the supplied
power system. You can execute a loop by
diving the model to gain speed. Aileron
rolls can be done, but only with a great
deal of coordinated elevator correction. I’d
rather not see a beginner try this. Landings
are easy because of the Scooter’s excellent
slow-flying characteristics.
Using the eight nonrechargeable AA
alkaline batteries in the transmitter is the
easiest thing with which to start. You will
get a lot of service from those batteries.
But you do have the option of installing
loose rechargeable Ni-Cd or NiMH cells or
you can install a complete Ni-Cd pack with
a cable as supplied by Hitec RCD (part
number 58207).
A charging jack is provided in the
transmitter. You can purchase a charger
(model number CG-25A) from Hitec RCD.
(It’s Hitec part number 43025 if obtained
from a Hitec equipment dealer.)
Although intended primarily for the
beginner, many clubs have been buying the
Scooters and “souping” them up for local
fun-type contests. They do everything from
balloon-breaking events to pylon races.
Some have even installed several of the
smaller-size brushless motors, which can
provide wonderful aerobatic maneuvering.
The Hitec Focus II RC system can have
considerable utility beyond the Scooter.
The system is light enough to control most
of the popular parking-lot/backyard flyers.
The transmitter also has a built-in mixing
circuit that will allow you to mix aileron
and elevator functions for the control of
flying-wing or delta-wing aircraft. There is
much to the little Funtec Sky Scooter Pro
II, be it the aircraft or the RC system. MA
Manufacturer:
Funtec Models:
A division of Hitec RCD
12115 Paine St.
Poway CA 92064
(858) 748-6948
www.hitecrcd.com
88 MODEL AVIATION
