Worth a Closer Look
These products debuted at the 2011 AMA Expo, which took place January 7–9 in Ontario, California.
A Fantasy of Fun
The Fantasy Racer is a budget version inspired by Italian artist Mirco Pecoran's Gee Bee R-3. Pecoran has inspired many full-scale aircraft manufacturers and pilots to push their artistry to the edge. Available from Cermark, ZD Fly has pushed the design envelope so that everyone can taste that blend of speed and art.
The Fantasy Racer features full EPP (some call it EPO) foam construction, combined with beautiful lines and new assembly techniques. It tracks well and has more than enough power to wow anyone who sees it. In addition to this model's speed and aerobatic qualities, it also has tremendous slow-speed characteristics in any attitude. They call it a "racer!"
ARF, RxR, and RTF versions of the 51-inch-wingspan design are available. The RTF includes a four-channel 2.4 GHz radio and has four servos installed, with all pushrods ready for adjustment. A high-performance Neodym Neo-10 brushless motor comes installed with a 50-amp brushless ESC. A charger and Amped 3S 2200 mAh Li-Poly are also included, at a great price.
Cermark: 9830 Bell Ranch Dr. #101, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670; Tel.: (562) 906-0808; Web site: www.cermark.com
Gorilla Bob's Solutions
Do you want more grunt from your electric-powered model? Check out Gorilla Bob's, touted as "R/C with Primal Attitude." A one-stop shop for electric airplanes and helicopters, this company carries big parts and the smallest doodads, ranging from neon-colored slow-flyer propellers to all of your night-flying needs. That's right—your Gorilla can glow in the dark.
A huge hit at the 2010 Nats was a 2-meter aerobatics model with a practical contra-rotating power system. The rails on which the model flew could not have been truer. That type of power system could be the wave of future aerobatic aircraft.
To find out for ourselves, we picked up the compact CR23M contra-rotating motor system from Gorilla Bob at the Expo. All accessories were available, including the trick aluminum spinner and standoffs that were custom-made for the package.
We're expecting 300 watts from this system but are testing it in a small GWS Formosa. With a pair of Castle Creations Phoenix-10 ESCs and a 2S 1000 mAh Li-Poly Zeus battery, we should get ballistic performance out of the 22-ounce test bed. Best of all, we won't have to be all over the rudder unless we want to be.
Gorilla Bob's R/C: 1253 Verano Dr., Bullhead City, AZ 86442; Web site: www.gorillabobsrc.com
Desert Aircraft's New 60
Give your 50cc- to 55cc-powered model an added dose of power with the new DA-60. With its integral mount, this power plant weighs less than the DA-50R with standoff mounts and shows lower vibration levels. With equal-size propellers, the DA-60 out-turns the DA-50R by more than 600 rpm.
Desert Aircraft engines are unmatched in quality, performance, and service. Modelers who use gas burners probably won't be disappointed, no matter which power plant they choose from the company's nine-engine lineup. Each includes a three-year warranty.
DA engines are designed using the latest tools and techniques, including 3D CAD and stereolithography. Featuring a CNC-milled 7075 aluminum-alloy crankcase, the cylinders, pistons, and crankshaft are exclusive Desert Aircraft designs. Performance and reliability are further enhanced by the Desert Aircraft auto-advance electronic ignition and long-trusted Walbro fuel-metering system.
With the price of fuels that contain nitro going up, consider using gas for better economy. And no matter what propeller you like, there might be a DA engine for you.
Desert Aircraft: 1815 S. Research Loop, Tucson, AZ 85710; Tel.: (520) 722-0607; Web site: www.desertaircraft.com
Innov8tive T-Motors
The T-Motor brushless series was designed by F3P fliers for F3P fliers. These great little motors feature ball-bearing-supported main shafts with built-in cross-style backplate mounts, and they include an integrated prop-saver–type propeller mounting system. T-Motors are great for smaller RC models that need a powerful, dependable, and lightweight power source.
The T2006 is designed to run on two- or three-cell Li-Poly power. In addition to powering F3P-type models, it makes an excellent brushless upgrade for many small RTFs that come stock with small brushed motors and gearboxes.
To allow several sizes of propellers to be used, the T2006 comes with a centering ring adapter that fits over the integrated prop-saver adapter. The main centering ring on the propeller adapter is 7.0 millimeters in diameter and is designed to fit the hole in the center of GWS Direct Drive–style propellers. The centering ring adapter is 5.5 millimeters in diameter and is designed to fit the GWS Slow Fly–style propellers.
The line of T-Motors is long and smart. Check it out online.
Innov8tive Designs: 1495 Poinsettia Ave., Suite 144, Vista, CA 92081; Tel.: (760) 468-8838; Web site: www.innov8tivedesigns.com
Worth a Closer Look
Mystery 16-Channel Transmitter
A prototype 16-channel transmitter was shown for the first time at the AMA Expo. Feedback from the public and top pilots in the industry has been incredible so far.
Many were in disbelief at the number of high-tech features that this system includes, such as 16 true channels, a large backlit LCD display, speech recognition, speech output, 1,000-model memory, full telemetry, etc.—especially given the target price of only $249.
We've been using the third generation of the XtremeLink radio system for more than a year and have found it to be practically bulletproof.
Version four of this system is expected to be ready for the Toledo Show in April, and this first transmitter should be available to the public at roughly that time.
Jim and Scott of Xtreme Power Systems were receptive to ideas about what the transmitter should feature, such as flight-mode systems, three-position switches, and sliders on the case side. The feel of the sticks is easy to adjust without removing the case half. We suggested rubber grips on the sides to enhance comfort.
The transmitter will be able to link to a PC for updates and downloads.
The unique part about this yet-to-be-named system is that the link to a PC will be via Wi‑Fi instead of a clumsy cable. A number of other details that the XPS team mentioned included safety features, which made us AMA people happy.
Xtreme Power Systems: 2440 Kiowa Blvd. #102, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403; Web site: www.xtremepowersystems.net
QB 30cc Extra and Edge
Gas engines are quickly becoming recognized as economical forms of propulsion for RC aircraft. What we used to classify as "120 size" is now being called "30cc," and models are being offered in this size for aerobatics and warbird fans.
AeroWorks is proud to add a new 30cc Extra 300 and Edge 540 to its series of Quick Build (QB) aircraft. QB models are designed with the customer in mind, to provide the highest-quality lightweight construction and fastest possible build time. Scale lines, light and strong construction, and race-ready color schemes are just a few features of the series.
The Extra 300 and Edge 540 offer unbeatable stability and precision flight characteristics. With both precision and 3-D–style flying in mind, they are sure to outperform many other models.
If you don't have a gas engine for one of these 74-inch-wingspan aerobats, a 1.60–1.80 glow two- or four-stroke power plant will do the job well. Electric fans will need 1,800–2,500 watts of power to make these 10-pound models groove. Their feature lists are impressive; visit the AeroWorks website to get the full picture.
AeroWorks: 4903 Nome St., Denver, CO 80239; Tel.: (303) 371-4222; Web site: www.aero-works.net
Hitec Servos
If you haven't tried digital servos, you don't know what you're missing. If price has kept you away, the most trusted name in servos has a solution.
Hitec believes in developing the highest-quality servos for the market at an affordable price. The company carries out that philosophy with its economical new HS-5495BH and HS-5496MH digital sport units. Based on the popular HS-54XX series, these high-voltage, heavy-duty servos are the perfect match for sport airplanes in sizes up to 25% scale as well as sport cars and trucks.
The HS-5495BH's Karbonite gears, designed for models weighing less than 12 pounds, and the HS-5496MH's powerful metal gears bring long-lasting reliability to your models. With 7.4-volt, two-cell Li-Poly battery capability, these servos deliver the power you need at a price you can feel good about.
Hitec RCD USA, Inc.: 12115 Paine St., Poway, CA 92064; Tel.: (858) 748-6948; Web site: www.hitecrcd.com
E-Power RC Sanding Mandrels
Aeromodelers are typically detail oriented, no matter what their specialty. We get it right with whatever device is at hand, but the right tool makes the job easier and better. The motor tool has become the most versatile "right tool" for many of us, thanks to its ability to accept a wide range of bits and cut through material like butter.
Thanks to the detail-oriented people at E-Power RC, instead of laboring with a small hand file, now we can intricately finish and sculpt with the efficiency of a power tool. The company's sanding bands are available in diameters as small as 1/8 inch (similar to a jeweler's file) and are packaged in multiple amounts with graduated coarseness.
These implements can be used to finish-shape a wood or composite part so that the inside corners have radiuses instead of sharp corners; that detail can prevent failures.
Check out the E-Power website to see the wide array of tools and accessories this company offers.
E-Power RC: Box 1021, Los Alamitos, CA 90720; Tel.: (714) 982-4547; Web site: http://rcmicrofile.3dcartstores.com
The T-Rex 100
If you ask around, you might hear that "100" is too big a number to use to classify Align's latest indoor electric machine. However, if you add up the features of this evolutionary palm-size helicopter, you might agree that its engineers gave better than 110% to make this entry-level product a complete package.
The T-Rex 100, distributed by Assurance R/C, is a single-rotor, fixed-pitch machine with twin-rotor stability. Complete with solid 2.4 GHz radio technology, the design encompasses both agility and stability characteristics.
Hobby-grade micro gyros guide the cyclic inputs for crash resistance, solid handling, and a long life. The heading-lock gyro will keep the nose locked in while you explore the feel of the cyclic and power controls.
The included transmitter doubles as the flight-battery charger and uses a mini-USB interface for charging its own NiMH batteries. It also links to a PC for use with a third-party flight simulator.
Weighing less than an ounce, this fun model package has a ton of features.
Assurance R/C USA: 3626 Briggeman Dr., Los Alamitos, CA 90720; Tel.: (562) 598-4700; Web site: www.alignrcusa.com
YS Smart
When the hood pops up and you find a YS engine, that model's owner probably understands performance. YS Engines has always offered the most power in the smallest package, and for the past few years the company has been increasing the output of every engine in the line without increasing its footprint.
The 56SR is impressing helicopter pilots with what has already wowed them in the 50 class, and four-stroke airplane fans have seen the .91 pulse-pounder rise in displacement from 1.10 to 1.15 cubic inches of propeller-turning potential.
YS considers today's modeler's needs and punches out power packages that break horsepower-output standards. Soon to be released is a 1.20 two-stroke helicopter engine; it will fit a .91 mount but offer a huge power increase to compete with today's electric-power offerings.
Surprisingly, the jump in displacement increases fuel consumption by less than 1 ounce per average flight. Use the new 1.20 and take advantage of lower fuel costs by using lower-nitro fuel instead of costly 30% blends, and you won't lose a bit of power.
YS Smart, continued
But YS isn't leaving out the four-stroke fans. Its competition-proven 1.70 will soon be available in a "sport" version that will be sold at a substantially lower price than the DZ version. It will feature the same top materials and reliability.
YS Parts and Service: 1370 Porter Dr., Minden, NV 89423; Tel.: (775) 267-9252; Web site: www.ysengines.net
Celectra Power
E-flite's new electric power-management systems suit multichemistry needs.
The Celectra line currently offers three products that work collectively:
- Celectra 80-watt AC/DC multichemistry battery charger (not shown): a full-featured tool for intermediate to experienced modelers that charges medium-capacity 1C–3C/1S–6S Li-Poly, one- to 15-cell NiMH, and 2- to 24-volt SLA batteries on the bench, on the flightline, or at the field. This unit is perfect for indoor and small-field needs.
- Celectra 200-watt DC multichemistry charger: a full-featured tool for intermediate to experienced modelers. It will charge large-capacity 1C–5C/1S–6S Li-Poly, one- to 18-cell NiMH, and 2- to 24-volt SLA batteries on the bench, on the flightline, or at the field.
- Celectra 15VDC 250-watt power station: a full-featured power station that provides sufficient current to run a large-capacity battery charger or a number of small- to medium-capacity battery chargers on the bench, on the flightline, or at the field.
E-flite: 4105 Fieldstone Rd., Champaign, IL 61822; Tel.: (800) 338-4639; Web site: www.e-flite-rc.com
Worth a Closer Look
Gaui X5 is Mild to Wild
The new X5 from Empire RC has been flown at helicopter events in a 3-D manner that some think of as insane, while others think they have to have this ultimate package!
It is fast, strong, and enormously agile. Because this electric-powered model turns 500mm blades, it fits the budget better than a 50- or 90-class helicopter. It feels bigger than it looks in the air, and that's the hook.
The X5 features a new main rotor head and swashplate that help produce quick control response and excellent stability. The servo layout is direct-drive CCPM (cyclic/collective pitch mixing), which results in precise control to the swashplate. A carbon-fiber main frame with integrated CNC construction results in a highly rigid setup that can withstand the ultimate power output. The fiberglass canopy color is also attractive.
Empire Hobby and the International Radio Controlled Helicopter Association (IRCHA) have collaborated to announce the new Gaui X5 Mild-to-Wild (M2W) Program for IRCHA members. Members of the SIG are impressed with this model. They learned that with a single part change and radio setup options, the outrageous X5 makes an excellent trainer. It is literally the machine that can take an RC pilot from training gear to Heli Smackdown events.
Visit the IRCHA Facebook page for all the details on how to participate in the M2W Program.
Empire Hobby: 950 E. Baseline Ave., Unit 210, Apache Junction, AZ 85119; Tel.: (480) 982-0909; Web site: www.empirercc.com
Great Planes WACO
During the Golden Age of Aviation, nothing compared with the smooth lines and signature trim scheme that made the WACO instantly recognizable—even at the smallest country airfields. Today the WACO YMF-5D features the same timeless good looks with the benefits of modern technology. The Great Planes replica is a fitting tribute, with its smooth, flowing lines and classic style in sport-scale detail.
Installing the replica radial engine takes a few minutes, and the blister detail is factory-installed and ready to be admired. There are no screw holes to distract from the cowl’s good looks. The hidden cowl ring secures it invisibly.
Engine options are wide open for this 72-inch-wingspan model. The O.S. FS-120S-E Surpass engine offers the best in four-stroke power and scale sound, while the low-cost DLE-30 provides true gas economy and the ease of electronic ignition.
Expect the weight of the YMF-5D to be in the 13- to 14-pound range.
Great Planes Model Distributors: Box 9021, Champaign, IL 61826; Tel.: (217) 398-3630; Web site: www.greatplanes.com
Your RC Designs
MyRCDesigns is the home of RC enthusiasts who make and share electric-powered aircraft using the MyRCDesign program. The software is currently in beta, and you are invited to join the company’s social network to download and participate in the program.
Browse the items in the hangar to see models already on the site. There is also a store, where you can purchase proven designs that are available in kit form.
These profile flat-foam aircraft are a breeze to build and a blast to fly; you'll probably be full of ideas about airplanes you’ll want next. MyRCDesigns can help you with that too.
You can use the company's software to design or modify existing plans. People are logged onto the forums, where they share ideas and can help you make tweaks or avoid blunders.
The fun of foamies is that almost anything will work. Members of MyRCDesigns will soon be able to upload their work to a flight simulator and fly instantly, virtually.
When your design is fine-tuned, MyRCDesigns can cut the kit for you and ship it to your door. There's even talk of decoration services for decals or ink-jet printing. This company will have you modeling in no time.
MyRCDesigns: 6 Red Fawn Ct., Henderson, NV 89074; Tel.: (702) 361-8421; Web site: http://myrcdesigns.com
In each installment of "Worth a Closer Look" we do our best to bring you new and exciting products from our industry. These write-ups are not press releases but are actually minireviews written by the MA staff. In each instance the product or service is actually built, tested, flown, used, etc., to give you a firsthand account of how it performs.
We have found some of these items on our own, but many have been brought to our attention by outside sources. If you have a product or service that you feel might be "worth a closer look," contact MA Editor Jay Smith at (765) 287-1256, ext. 225, or [email protected].
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
