Thursday, July 28, 2011

Parkzone's Ultra Micro F-27Q Stryker 180

Just Announced here is a great glimpse of Parkzone's latest release...the F-27Q Stryker 180!



Take Stryker thrills with you wherever you go with the Ultra Micro Series F-27Q Stryker 180. It packs the punch of an E-flite® 3000Kv 180 brushless outrunner motor that delivers exhilarating speed and climb performance, just like the big> F-27Q. It also has functional twin rudders so you can push the limits with extreme aerobatic maneuvers like flat spins, snap rolls, blenders and more. Perhaps best of all, you get this awesome performance without having to sacrifice any of the smooth, predictable flight characteristics that have made every Stryker a sport pilot favourite.


You can get more information from our website >HERE



Losi XXX-SCB Review


Short course trucks have reinvigorated the 1/10-scale off-road scene over the last few years, drawing more and more people into our wonderful hobby. Like anything that gets mega-popular though, you eventually reach a level where it starts to burn itself out or leave people longing for the next new thing. Losi is hoping to have the answer in something that is different enough to catch your eye, but still familiar enough to provide a connection to something wildly fun. I'm of course talking about the new Losi XXX-SCB, or short course buggy.

The XXX-SCB combines the looks and feel of a 2WD buggy with the size and handling of a short course truck. This is a combination that Losi hopes will help the appeal of this new platform as it shares most of its parts between both vehicles, making it easier for someone to own one of each and not have to carry around unique parts. The narrow chassis and lower profile front shock tower gives the XXX-SCB a different look and stance, along with the potential to provide a different feel in the steering department. I had a chance to drive one at RCX 2011 in Pomona and was really looking forward to heading to the track with one to test out. The wait is over as I now have a XXX-SCB of my own and am ready to hit the track.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

An Evening Flying Indoors At ETSA Park

Another video clip from Chuck Thrillseeker - this time at our Indoor flying event at ETSA Park! A great crowd this month and a great array of planes and helis!

Parkzone RAF SE5a - The Maiden

Thanks again to Chuck "Thrillseeker" for this video of his maiden flight of the brand new Parkzone SE5a WW1 RC Plane! It looks great and here's what he thought....

"Here's the video of the maiden of the SE-5a and may i just say WOW! What a great flyer this plane is, Corinne took all the footage used in this video I just edited it and I can say there is some great footage in it, some of the shots you would think your at an air show watching a WW1 plane fly by. It lands and takes off easy, yes after a couple of batteries i would have to say IMHO this is the easiest of all the big Parkzone planes to fly, thank you so much for mine! Enjoy the maiden video"



He has also sent us these great pics:






Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Blade 450 3D and Spektrum DX7s.mp4



Our Friend Hamish Scott at the SARCH heli club on Saturday with the Blade 450 and NEW Spektrum DX7s!! Great Vid Hamish, thanks!

Monday, July 25, 2011

ParkZone Ultra Micro Pole Cat Preview


The Ultra Micro Series Pole Cat is modeled after the modifi¬ed Cassutt Formula 1 air racers that compete in the world famous Reno Air Race. It’s been specially designed to deliver all the looks and thrills of these Reno speedsters yet remain as forgiving as any sport plane. Whether you’re banking and yanking around the pylons with the throttle wide open, unwinding with some sport aerobatics, or simply shooting touch and goes, the Pole Cat is a joy to fly at any speed.

We meet with Seth Arnold in studio to look at the new Ultra Micro Pole Cat. This new racer looks great from any angle and really delivers in the air. From high banked turns to basic aerobatics, it has it where it counts. So take a look and see what the new Pole Cat from ParkZone is all about.



by John Redman, Horizon Hobby UK

Sunday, July 24, 2011

ParkZone Mk IX Spitfire Preview


The Supermarine Spitfire is an icon of British grit and determination. Its fluid lines seem to blend art with aerodynamics. ParkZone has brilliantly captured the power and grace of the Spitfire with this remarkably scale, brushless Mk IX replica. The Mk IX was developed by Supermarine in 1942 to counter the threat posed by the Focke Wulf 190. It also has the distinction of being the first Allied warplane to shoot down an Me-262 jet.

We met with Matt Andren in studio to discuss this new addition to the ParkZone War bird line-up. Ready to accept retracts out of the box with incredible scale detail and great looks, this model is sure to please. Take a look at the panel lines, molded radiator details, antenna mast and other appointments that make this Spitfire stand alone from others on the market.

Friday, July 22, 2011

ParkZone F-27Q Stryker Review


Designed by world aerobatic champion Quique Somenzini, the F-27Q Stryker delivers a thrilling blend of speed and aerobatic precision that’s unlike anything else in its class. Its fiberglass-reinforced Z-Foam airframe has been designed to handle abrupt wing loading changes at high speeds. This, combined with its more powerful 480 brushless power system and twin rudders, gives you an extra dimension of aerobatic fun you won’t find with any other flight-ready flying wing. Flat spins, blenders, snaps, knife edge—the F-27Q does it all with the same smooth, predictable handing that’s made every Stryker a sport flying favourite.

We time the build and radio setup to see how long it takes to get us to the flying field. We show you some great flying footage and some of the maneuvers the new Stryker can deliver. After a few batteries at the flying field, we close up the review in studio. This is one hot model you want to grab up while you can. Nothing beats a Stryker!



by John Redman, Horizon Hobby US

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

VIC vs. SA Challenge Results in Mildura


Congratulations to the South Australian Pattern Association for a great victory over Victoria!!  the guys took out the SA vs. VIC Challenge 23 points to 21!

Monday, July 18, 2011

Hangar 9 33% Pawnee Review



This big, beautiful recreation of Piper's famous ag workhorse may look imposing, but it's really a pushover. Even with its 130+ inch wingspan, near-perfect scale outline and details like working oleo struts and functional flaps, it's no more of a challenge to assemble than many smaller ARFs. And, like the full-scale Pawnee, it's one of the tamest tail draggers you'll ever have the joy of flying. The generous wing area, stable flat-bottom airfoil and fiberglass wingtips forgive much while providing smooth, solid control at most any speed. Short field takeoffs and landings with flaps are a whole lot of fun too. If you've always wanted a giant-scale plane but were daunted by the complexity or performance, this easy-going 80cc ARF is for you.

We met up with Peter Goldsmith at the JR® Aero Tow to discuss this great new model— some of the many features are the sliding motor box mounting system, fully scale and shock absorbing landing gear, opening cockpit doors, drooped wingtips, and so much more. The incredible attention to detail in certain areas will definitely put this one above this rest. It's definitely on my list to grab up! So check out the video and watch the Pawnee do some Aero Towing at the same time; it was actually happening right behind us at the very moment we were interviewing with Peter. Great guy and cool plane— check it out.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

ParkZone P-47D Retract Installation How To


ParkZone has brought The Jug to life with this great flying scale recreation that comes out of the box with details like a simulated radial engine, molded panel lines and a realistic 404th Fighter Group paint scheme. It’s even set up to let you easily add the option of functional flaps and retractable landing gear. And you can bet it flies every bit as good as it looks. The 15-size brushless motor and E-flite 30A Pro brushless ESC that are installed for you will provide more than enough power for high-speed strafing runs and sport aerobatics.

The first ParkZone warbird to have the option of retracts is here. We show you what it takes to make that gear go up and down with the addition of the E-flite electric retracts. From the necessary parts and tools, we take you step by step through the installation process. Now you too can pull the gear into the wheel wells immediately after takeoff. Flying that next sortie with the gear in the up position always gives the full effect, and we show you how. Stop in and take a look!

Friday, July 15, 2011

Sunday, July 10, 2011

How-To Install Losi's Micro 2.4GHz Conversion


When we first interviewed Todd Hodge about the 1/24-scale Micro Rally Car and Micro Short Course Truck, he hinted there might be a Spektrum 2.4GHz and brushless conversion coming sometime down the road. That time is now here as Losi has an all-in-one Spektrum 2.4GHz conversion kit that can be used with both brushed and brushless motors. There are two different conversions available; one that simply converts your vehicle to Spektrum Technology, and a second that also includes a brushless motor. Losi has also managed to design the components so they not only fit in the 1/24-scale chassis, but also in the smaller 1/36-chassis such as the Micro-T and Micro-Desert Truck.

Frank Root has been intimately involved with this project since the very beginning. Frank joins us in a pair of videos to show you how to install these systems in your chassis. Frank walks you through the disassembly process of how to remove the stock radio gear and motor, how the new gear gets installed and how to setup and bind your system to your radio. There are two different videos to help you with this installation for both the 1/24 and 1/36-scale chassis.

1/24th Scale:


1/36th Scale:

Friday, July 8, 2011

Electrix RC Boost 2WD Buggy Review



There's no denying that Electrix RC has absolutely nailed the entry-level audience with their two previous vehicles, the Circuit Stadium Truck and the Ruckus 2WD Monster Truck, since they're incredibly easy to setup, user friendly and most importantly, fun machines to simply go out and bash around with. Their latest project, the Boost™ 2WD Buggy, looks to capitalize on the rebirth of the 2WD electric buggy class and provide one of the easiest ways to get into RC.

The Boost doesn’t reinvent the wheel so much as it continues down the path the Circuit and Ruckus blazed before it. Constructed out of durable composites and including absolutely everything someone would need to get started right in the box, the Boost has incredible potential. We packed up our gear and headed out to Eli Field, the same location that we reviewed both the Circuit and the Ruckus, and had an afternoon of fun.

Speed Specs
Vehicle: Boost Buggy
Part Numbers: ECX3000 (Orange); ECX3100 (Blue)
Vehicle Class/Type: 1/10-scale 2WD Buggy
Target Audience: Entry Level and Sportsman off-road enthusiasts
Completion Level: RTR



Notes:
With my busy schedule, I don't always have the time to sit down and build a kit like I might want. That's where I really appreciate the ease and convenience that the Boost (and all Electrix RC vehicles) offers. Getting started and setup with the Boost is super-easy. Simply pull the car out of the box, insert the receiver antenna into the antenna tube, install the antenna and included AA's into the transmitter, charge up the 1800mAh Dynamite Speedpack, and you're ready for fun. This approach is extremely hassle-free, putting the emphasis on you being able to get out and run your vehicle instead of having to set aside time to build it.
I headed back to Eli Field with our videographer Jack in tow. I haven't driven on the track since the filming of the Ruckus review and Lee Morrison had changed the track slightly; slowing things down a bit by removing the sweeper on the left-hand side of the track and replacing it with a pair of hairpin turns. We had also been experiencing near-record temperatures and the surface of the track was extremely dry and powdery. While I had a chance to drive a Boost at RCX 2011, it was on a much tackier surface with more bite. I had a feeling that I would need to be a bit more gentle on the throttle for these track conditions, but knew I'd be in for a whole heaping pile of fun.

Handling
The bone-dry conditions of the track were a bit of a concern to me since I didn't know how well the Boost would hook up. The fact that the track was pretty loamy off-line told me that this would present a challenge. From the first pull of the trigger, I was impressed with the zippiness of the Boost around the track, floored at how well it jumped and appreciative of the overall forgiving nature of the car.
Admittedly, the track at Eli Field isn't overly technical or covered with monster jumps; however, it was certainly enough of a challenge to see what the Boost's capabilities were. On this surface, the Boost had a bit of a pushy tendency, something that is better for a beginner than a car that swaps ends. While it was welcome on most parts of the track, I really could have used more steering in the two new hairpins. I tried to tap the brakes to slow down and swing the rear end around and was instantly reminded that my "pulsing" of the brakes won't work with the Boost. there isn't a delay before reverse kicks in. It only bit me a few times but, at least out of the box, my normal powering into a corner, pulsing the brakes, and powering out wouldn't work. With the Boost pulsing the brakes would cause reverse to kick in at the least opportune time. I did find however, that if I took a more flowing, smoother line around the corner I could get the Boost around quite nicely and quickly.
Perhaps the area of the track where the Boost impressed me the most was the step-up jump/right-hand hairpin/jump down section on the right side of the track. This part of the track has gotten a little rutted from larger 4WD short course trucks and 1/8-scale buggies, but the Boost handled it like a champ. Actually, that's an understatement as the Boost consistently took the step up, hard right and step down almost as good as my "race 2WD" does. The Boost was very sure-footed and only occasionally stepped out of line if I got on the power too hard.

Top-Speed/Acceleration
While the Boost uses the same 20-turn motor as the Ruckus and Circuit, the gurus at Electrix RC have been really good at taking the size of the wheels and tires into consideration and providing a different pinion gear depending on the destination vehicle. The Boost, having smaller tires than either the Circuit or Ruckus, utilizes a larger 20-tooth pinion gear. This yields decent top speed that felt pretty similar to its larger cousins. While the track was rather dusty and dry, I would say that, if anything, acceleration felt a little crisper than the trucks. I think the fact that the Boost is an overall lighter vehicle helps in this instance since the motor doesn't have to propel as large of a vehicle. Like the Ruckus and the Circuit before it, I found the Boost to have enough speed to be fun for a beginner without being difficult to drive.

Off-Power
The Boost is setup with a bias towards a mellow or balanced feel from the box and that was really evident off-power, particularly in the tight 180-degree sections of the track. I could get the car loose off-power if I dialed more steering into the transmitter, but I really didn't care for that feel. I turned the steering throw down just enough to get the car through most of the turns without swapping ends while still having enough steering to get around the course. The Boost did relatively well off-power, however, I could have used a little more steering in the tight 180-degree turns off of the front stretch. Being able to have brakes instead of going automatically into reverse would have made things easier for me personally, but for the target audience that the Boost is intended for, I think that majority of those drivers would rather have reverse than brakes.

On-Power
When I first saw the tread pattern for the rear tires that the Boost would be coming with, I thought there was a lot of potential here. The block pattern was small enough to hook up well on harder packed tracks while still being large enough to be able to bite into loose dirt, gravel or other surfaces that the Boost is sure to see. The rubber is a harder compound for increased tread life, but they still hooked up quite well in these conditions. I was able to get the car sideways or out of shape if I got on the gas too aggressively, but it was nothing out of the ordinary. Much like the off-power characteristics on-power, the Boost seemed to slide the front tires a bit when on-power, but it wasn't too bad. If anything, it helped provide a bit of confidence that I could get off the gas and have the car follow the line I wanted versus chasing the rear end.

Jumping
If there's one area that the Boost really impressed me, it was in how well it jumped. Let me be totally clear here, the Boost isn't a race buggy, but it sure jumps like one. From the approach, takeoff and landing, the Boost was totally predictable and a joy to drive. While I could manipulate the chassis in-air if need be, I never really had a need to. This was all with the Boost featuring the out-of-the-box setup regarding pre-load and ride height. In fact, I'm trying to recall one time when the Boost got out of shape taking off or landing and I can't think of one. It was a very pleasant surprise and one of the highlights of driving the Boost.

Out-of-the-Box Setup
I expected the Boost to drive very similarly to the Circuit and, for the most part it did, but it didn't at the same time. Here's what I mean… The Circuit was really forgiving to drive, very fun, durable and had a decent amount of speed. The Boost had all of these same features but just seemed like it was amped up a bit. The Boost felt more precise and had a more direct feeling and felt faster around the track. I was also a bit shocked that, if memory of the Circuit serves me right, the Boost also felt like it jumped better too. This isn't a condemnation of the Circuit as it's more of praise for the Boost that it was a more nimble vehicle. Thinking it through, this makes total sense as buggies normally are more precise and nimble than their stadium truck cousins, and this totally translated with the Boost.

Conclusion
The Boost is exactly what it is set out to be; a fast, fun, durable and good handling buggy. I think the biggest endorsement for the Boost was something that happened after the camera stopped rolling. I handed the transmitter off to our videographer, Jack, so he could get some laps in as I took some photos for our Facebook page with my cell phone. Jack has some previous RC experience, but I think even he'd admit he's far from a hardcore RC guy. It took just a lap or two for him to find his comfort level as he started turning better and better laps. This is exactly what we need in RC and what the Boost delivers. Much like how the Blade mCX-series of helis provide people the right first-step into the world of RC flight, the Boost provides the right first-step into the world of RC cars. I know I've said it over and over, but the Electrix RC vehicles in-general, and the Boost specifically, are the ideal sort of vehicles to get anyone into the hobby quickly and easily. Everything is here to provide the perfect foundation to build upon as you grow and develop your skills. I know my kids have been bugging me to take them with me to the racetrack and I've been hesitant to let them drive my personal race machines. The Boost from Electrix RC, however, is the perfect fit for their needs and I look forward to watching them have a blast.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

JR XG8 Unboxing Video

June 2011 at ETSA Park with 'The Phoenix'

An excellent gathering of fliers broached the cold winter-ish weather to attend our June Indoor Meeting at the very popular S.A. Netball Stadium at Mile End, an inner Adelaide suburb when, once again we were able to witness a fine mixture of indoor flying models.

Michael, no more a relation to Mike O’Reilly than Vin Pike is to Vincent Van Gogh, is one of our more avid fliers and arrived in his usual style – surrounded by boxes of models that you see beside him while flying. He rarely wastes time, apart from re-charging his many battery packs and has just about bought every micro model that is on offer at Model Flight on Goodwood Road. These tiny models, all foam with an enormous turn of speed are out in force on each of the third Thursdays that we fly each month. There is an exception to that for, in September, we are switching to the last Thursday in the month to be a part of the Cruising Classic Events which are a part of the vast programme of events that are organized by the Bay to Birdwood Rally Officials.

On that night, the 29th September we will be known in the official programme of events as “Indoor Fliers On Parade” and, whilst we are hoping for a full compliment of participants, I shall tell you more of that when we get nearer to the date. My next picture highlights some of the people who will be part of that evening.

We all know that it is quite normal to see a parrot fly overhead, but, this strange creature that you see here, resting on the highly polished floor of ETSA Stadium is also known as a Parrot. I normally have a reasonable sense of imagination but it is really lacking somewhat when I try and relate the name “Parrot” to this strange flying machine. It is a multi-engined conglomeration that has one of the most amazing performances that one could see. Its flight is controlled from an I-phone or I-pad and the steadiness of its flight just has to be seen to be believed.


In my second photo, the aircraft is actually hovering and will remain in that position until the operator gives it another command from his phone. When Model Flight brought their first shipment to the shelves, Manager Brad was a little dubious about its rate of sale. This was proved to be unfounded for they did sell like the proverbial hot cakes. If you are sufficiently fortunate to operate an I-phone or pad, then this will be your scene and the centre of your entertainment. Go for it.

I mentioned Michael’s many boxes and this photo shows the type of contents that we often see as he opens them in preparation to flying. This is the delightful Sukhoi – 26xp. So perfect in every respect.

These are not for the faint hearted nor for the VERY old Pensioners for an alert eye is required to keep up with their speed of performance. My final picture (below) this month shows one of the “almost” elderly Pensioners who does have the necessary vision for Micro Flying – this is not surprising as he regularly flies Jet aircraft and other quite rapid models. I speak of Vin Pike who, whilst normally pelting a “Four-site” around the flying area, is seen here with his new “Extra 300.”Publish Post

In July, dear readers, we will gather for communion on the 21st July and, being slap bang in the middle of winter, it is suggested that you drag on your woolen undies for your trip to ETSA Park and make your entrance fairly rapid from the warmth of your air conditioning in your motor vehicle to the cool indoors of the stadium. As it is only from 8-30p.m. to 10-30p.m. your will only be away from your vehicle for two short hours, provided that you make your packing up quick and thorough at 10-30p.m. As you may have commenced flying as early as eight oclock, why not start packing up at 10-25p.m.

I look forward to us all meeting again on that night.

La Fenice’

(The Phoenix to you ignorant ones.}

Monday, July 4, 2011

Friday, July 1, 2011

The All-New ParkZone Ultra Micro Series Pole Cat Pylon Racer

ParkZone’s first Ultra Micro Series Formula 1 airplane, the Pole Cat, is a slippery little racer that you can fly just about anywhere!

 

The Ultra Micro Series Pole Cat BNF is modeled after the modified Cassutt Formula 1 air racers that compete in the world famous Reno Air Race. It's been specially designed to deliver all the looks and thrills of these compact speedsters, yet remain as forgiving as any sport plane. Designed with personalization in mind, the Pole Cat comes with decal options so racers can distinguish their plane as they speed through an ultra micro pylon race.

Features:
  • Spektrum AR6400 DSM2 receiver/ESC unit
  • 4-channel control – throttle, aileron, elevator and rudder
  • Spektrum AS2000L ultra micro aileron servo
  • 8.5mm coreless brushed motor
  • Tail wheel steering
  • Attractive paint scheme
  • Race number decal sheets
  • Race number decal sheets
  • 1S 150mAh Li-Po battery and DC charger

Introducing the Cessna 150 Aerobat 250 ARF by E-flite

 

The Cessna 150 Aerobat 250 is for RC pilots wanting the thrill of basic aerobatics in a small yet detailed package. This clever, all-wood model remarkably maintains the subtle curves and character of the original aircraft, yet is distinctively tricked out with a checker-scheme that honors the character of the Aerobat.


Features:
  • Authentic scale outline and lightweight UltraCote® ParkLite™ trim scheme
  • Balsa construction with fiberglass cowl and wheel pants
  • Laser-cut engineered to be as light as possible
  • Magnetically secured plug-in wings and cowl
  • Clear front, rear, side and skylight windows
  • Pre-hinged ailerons and rudder controls
  • Easily assembles in a single evening
  • Easy access hatch with spring-loaded latch
  • Quick release struts
  • E-flite aluminum spinner available separately (EFLSP100)
  • Recommended for use with the New Park 280 Motor (EFLM1140)
  • Recommended for use with the New 3.5-Gram DS35 Digital Super Sub-Micro Servo (EFLRDS35)

Announcing the NEW Parkzone Spitfire Mk IX

ParkZone brings the Spitfire Mk IX to life with this accurate representation and powerful motor, battery and propeller combination. From the radiator scoop, 20mm gun barrels and cannon blisters to the exhaust ports and detailed cockpit area, this Spitfire has it all. For added authenticity, the trim scheme is modeled after famed RAF ace Johnnie Johnson. Available in BNF and PNP versions, the ParkZone Spitfire Mk IX comes out of the box with 4-channel control and fixed landing gear but is ready to accept E-flite® .15-size electric retracts.
  • 4-channel control – throttle, elevator, aileron and rudder
  • Powerful 15- sized BL outrunner; 950Kv, installed
  • E-flite® 30A Pro Switch-Mode BEC brushless ESC, installed
  • Servos, installed
  • Dual aileron servos for precise control
  • Designed to accept E-flite electric retracts (EFLG100), sold separately
  • Durable Z-Foam™ construction
  • 20mm cannon, exhaust and cockpit details
  • Authentic Johnnie Johnson World War II trim scheme

Visit the Modelflight Website for more information