GOOD AIRPLANES FOR STARTING IN RC AEROBATICS
By Justin Wells | justinwell s@mac.com
A TOPIC I have yet to discuss is about what airplane would be a good fit to “up your game” in RC Aerobatics (Pattern). I get asked on occasion what I would recommend, so I’ll do my best in this article to guide you. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
Contrary to popular belief, there are more than 60 size options out there for someone who is looking to step into a more modern Pattern airplane. These airplanes have proven to be quite capable and are all-around fun airplanes to fly.
The following are suggestions on what you can get if you are dipping your toe into RC Aerobatics. You can always step up to something larger as you become addicted. Like anything, you can spend as much or as little on a setup and still find yourself challenged by RC Aerobatics.
I have also found that any larger gas 3D airplane can be trimmed and tamed for good RC Aerobatics practice. It takes time and effort to correctly set up the airplane, so seek assistance from a fellow modeler about the setup, if needed.
Radios
If you are comfortable with a radio brand, stay with it. Don’t change for the sake of changing. If you want more options, see what others around you are using and go with a similar system. Having others who are knowledgeable to help with the programming and setup goes a long way.
Propulsion Systems
The sky is the limit these days. If you prefer glow power, there are great options. If you prefer electric power, there are even more options. The choice is yours. You need to utilize what you are comfortable with. There are plenty of tools and resources on the internet to help guide you in the right direction.
Airframes
The following are suggestions of airplanes that I’ve flown, or I know of pilots who have flown them. They are a good way to step up to something designed for RC Aerobatics.
- Kaos 60 from Tower Hobbies: Yes, this is a classic 60-size Pattern airplane, but it is highly capable of competing up to the Advanced class. This airframe can be glow or electric power and is quite visible and capable when it’s trimmed out. It can often be found on sale.
- SebArt Angel S 50E from F3A Unlimited: This is a more modern design, but it is capable and comes in two color options: white or yellow. This one is only electric.
- SebArt MythoS 50 E from F3A Unlimited: Another SebArt option that also comes in white or yellow, this airplane can be electric or glow powered and provides you with a great airframe to meet your specific propulsion requirements.
- Acuity from AJ Aircraft: The Acuity comes in two sizes: 62 inches and a full two meters. Both are exceptional designs for someone getting into RC Aerobatics.
These are electric only. For you diehards, I have heard of the larger two-meter version being flown on glow power. These are offered in three or four color options.
In closing, whatever you choose is the right choice. Many of us in RC Aerobatics fly the same airframe, but I can assure you that they all feel and fly differently based on how each pilot chooses to set them up.
Until next time!
SOURCES:
National Society of Radio Controlled Aerobatics (NSRCA)
www.nsrca.us
Tower Hobbies
www.towerhobbies.com
F3A Unlimited
(800) 591-2875
www.f3aunlimited.com
AJ Aircraft
(734) 244-4015
www.aj-aircraft.com
