2 or 3?

[kingsnake93]

do think a 2 channel plane is more easy to fly than a 3 channel plane? I have a FirebirdCommander2 and a Slow-V. I think 3 channel planes are better than 2 channel planes. Like if you are in a stall you can pull up.

[Leo L]

For someone who has never flown before, 2-channel is easier because there is a 33% reduction in the thinking that needs to be done, the controls that need to be monitored, and the possibility of doing the wrong thing. Once a flyer graduates from 2-channel control to 3-channel control and becomes confortable with 3 channels, the 3 channel plane becomes much easier to fly because the independent control of the elevator function allows faster and easier recovery, take-offs, landings, etc. It also allows more aerobatic flight, which is not possible with 2-channel control.

[kingsnake93]

I spent about 100$ on repairs for my 2 channel plane and no $ on my 3 channel plane.

[Dr_Who77]

I spent about 100$ on repairs for my 2 channel plane and no $ on my 3 channel plane.

Some 2 channel planes don't fly very well. I have never flown anything with just 2 channels. What is there to control? Throttle and rudder? Possibly just rudder and elevator?

I started out on 3 channel: Rudder, Elevator, and Throttle. They are usually easy to fly, depending on the actual model, and you do have more control, I think, over the plane.

I have flown 4 channel also: Rudder, Elevator, Aileron, and Throttle. For tight aileron rolls and even more control, this is the way to go. 4 Channel does NOT mean easier, it means more operating surfaces to influence the plane.

Dr_Who

[kingsnake93]

Some 2 channel planes don't fly very well. I have never flown anything with just 2 channels. What is there to control? Throttle and rudder? Possibly just rudder and elevator?

I started out on 3 channel: Rudder, Elevator, and Throttle. They are usually easy to fly, depending on the actual model, and you do have more control, I think, over the plane.

I have flown 4 channel also: Rudder, Elevator, Aileron, and Throttle. For tight aileron rolls and even more control, this is the way to go. 4 Channel does NOT mean easier, it means more operating surfaces to influence the plane.

Dr_Who Yes it is only elevatot and rudder well throttle is elevator. Well
the more throttle the higher you go. I have a FirebirdCommander2 I am not fond of it. Since I have a 3 channel plane I would picl a three channel plane over any 2 channel plane.

[Leo L]

The reason that you haven't spent any $ on repairing your 3-channel plane is that you did all of your major crashing with the 2-channel plane. Ask anyone who started with a 3-channel plane and they will tell you that they spent many $ repairing that first plane.

[kingsnake93]

The reason that you haven't spent any $ on repairing your 3-channel plane is that you did all of your major crashing with the 2-channel plane. Ask anyone who started with a 3-channel plane and they will tell you that they spent many $ repairing that first plane. Yeah I guess so. I am going to teach my dad to fly my 2 channel plane. And I have a new plane body, It ain't messed up.

[Leo L]

Terrific! I hope that your dad enjoys flying and that it will become an activity that the two of you can share. Best of luck to you.

I have forgotten now. Are you currently flying the Slow-V?

[kingsnake93]

Terrific! I hope that your dad enjoys flying and that it will become an activity that the two of you can share. Best of luck to you.

I have forgotten now. Are you currently flying the Slow-V?
Thanks, My dad seems to be excited about learning to fly. Yes I am flying my Slow-V I love it is soooo easy. I also just got back from flying it. I used my ariel drop module. I made made a 5 circle I droped it dead center.

[HottsOne]

I started on an Aerobird Challenger about a year ago. After many many learning experiences, I got the hang of it. Now, I can fly almost anything. Want proof? See the video of the "pro-tail" Aerobird here: www.putfile.com/hottsone This is me this year after I did some modification to the tail of my Aerobird.

[kingsnake93]

I went to fly my Slow-V I did my first FLIP!!!!! and a SPIRAL. Once my dad gets good at flying the Firebird Commander2 we are going to share my Slow-V and then get a 3-d electric. Any suggestions for a 3-d 4channel plane would be good.

[Leo L]

Its terrific that you enjoy flying so much and that your dad is getting involved (hooked?). I think that you're jumping the gun by thinking about a 3D at this time. You are at least one plane, and maybe two planes, away from a 3D. Your next plane should be a high wing intermediate like the PZ Cub, PZ Decathlon, Parkflyer Cessna, etc. Then a low wing like the P51, P-47, etc. Then finally a 3D like the Typhoon.

[aeajr]

No one can say how well you will do or how big a step you can take next but I would not recommend going to a 3 D plane at this point, but, hey, its your money. If you are going to limit yourself to RTFs only, then here are two planes that would make great next steps. With the Stryker you can do air to air comabt with the Commander II and the Slo-V. :)

F27-Stryker - RTF - $170
Fun Keep-in-the-car plane
Just pop off the tail fins and it goes back in the box!!!!!
http://horizon.hobbyshopnow.com/products/description.asp?prod=PKZ1200
Video
http://rc-galaxy.com/Video/F-27_Stryker_Richard_Harris_7-9-04.wmv
http://www.hobbyzone.com/rc_videos/parkzone_F27_stryker_smallformat.wmv
http://www.hobbyzone.com/rc_videos/parkzone_stryker_video.wmv
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=392

Multiplex Space Scooter - RTF
A more up to date version of the Sky Scooter Pro above
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGZV5&P=7
ARF
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGZV4&P=7
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=548
Video
http://www.bungymania.com/videos/films/spacescooter/spacescooter_sun_stunt.wmv
http://67.18.81.100/rcuvideos/magazine/reviews/548/SpaceScooter.wmv


Now, if you are really into the hobby and really serious, then it is time to leave the RTFs behind. They are fun, but time to join the big boys. Get a good radio system and start buying ARFs or Kits.

First the planes - Here are some fun ones:

Multiplex Microjet - ARF
http://www.multiplexusa.com/product_fs.htm
video
http://www.bungymania.com/videos/films/microjet/microjet_hand_launching.wmv
http://www.bungymania.com/videos/films/microjet/microjet_hight_speed.wmv

Viper Twin - ARF
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/viper.html
review
http://www.parkflyers.com/Viper_RCM_PSD_LowPDF.pdf
Video
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/trailervid.html
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/smoothvid.html

Zagi XS - ARF
http://zagi.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=1
Video page
http://www.zagi.com/index.php?main_page=movies&sessid=5fe1f36d4db5782d3e812dbc8b76c42f

Zagi XT - ARF
http://zagi.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=5
Video Page
http://www.zagi.com/index.php?main_page=movies&sessid=5fe1f36d4db5782d3e812dbc8b76c42f

IFO - Easy to build kit
Demo at the 2000 Tournament of Champions
http://www.wildrc.com/htmlpages/movies/toc2000.mpg
Flying Combat in a gym
http://www.wildrc.com/htmlpages/movies/mk3combat.mpg

Park Jet - Easy to build kit
http://mountainmodels.com/parkjet.php
Video
http://mountainmodels.com/ParkJet.wmv


FOUR CHANNEL AILERON TRAINERS
These planes introduce the full set of flight controls consisting of
ailerons/elevator/rudder/throttle. They are a logical next step for the
pilot who wants to take their flying skills to full 4 channel control. All of
these planes can perform aerobatics, but are primarily designed as 4 channel
trainers with high wing designs . This makes them easier to fly but less
aerobatic than the mid or low wing planes. RTF, ARF & Kits

Magpie - with both wing kits - $55
Easy to build Foam kit -
Has trainer wing AND aileron sport wing
Master the first, then advance to the second.
They offer a complete package with both wings and all the electronics for $160
http://www.mountainmodels.com/magpie.php
discussion threads
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3502851#post3502851
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=306795&highlight=SmoothE+build
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3502851#post3502851
Video - slow fly wing
http://www.mountainmodels.com/Magpie.wmv
Sport wing
http://www.mountainmodels.com/MagpieSP.wmv

SmoothE - $50
Easy to build Balsa and foam
4 channel aileron trainer
http://www.mountainmodels.com/smoothe.php
Discussion Threads
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=234349&highlight=SmoothE+build
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=205796&page=19&pp=15
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=276761
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=295225
Funny video
http://www.mountainmodels.com/SmoothEsmall.WMV

Models Dandy Sport - $45
http://www.mountainmodels.com/dandysport.php
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=295225
Complete Package $155
Video
http://www.mountainmodels.com/ds1.wmv

GWS E-starter 400 - Simple Foam Kit - $50
http://www.gwsexpert.com/product_info.php?products_id=551
Available as a ARF complete package kit with radio - $150
http://www.gwsexpert.com/product_info.php?cPath=56&products_id=611

GWS Tiger Moth 400 - Simple Foam Kit - $70
http://www.gwsexpert.com/product_info.php?cPath=2_54&products_id=203
Complete kit including Radio - $175
http://www.gwsexpert.com/product_info.php?cPath=34&products_id=658
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=345
Video
http://67.18.81.100/rcuvideos/magazine/reviews/345/TM400m.wmv

Multiplex Magister ARF - $110
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGZV2&P=ML
Multiplex Magister - RTF - $299
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGZV3&P=ML
This plane is much larger than the others
Close to a .40 glow trainer in size
Review
http://www.smoothair.ca/reviews/Magister/magister.htm
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=519
Discussion
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=309397
Touch and Gos
http://www.plawner.org/video/magister_touchngoes.wmv
Video - Take off from grass - standard motor/battery
http://67.18.81.100/rcuvideos/magazine/reviews/519/magister1.wmv
Towing up a glider
http://plawner.org/video/Magister_easy.wmv
Video - This is not with the standard motor
this plane has an upgraded brushless motor
http://plawner.org/video/magister_test.wmvhttp://plawner.org/video/magister_test.wmv

[aeajr]

Starter Radios

I have a very specific position on radios. Don't buy a Standard Radio!!!

Computer radios are now so inexpensive and offer so much more than standard
radios that it doesn't make sense to get anything but a computer radio. Don't
get me wrong, there are many good standard radios, but for only a few bucks
more you get a much more capable computer radio that can do more for you than
any standard radio and can save you money by time you get the second plane.
They can also make it easier to fly your plane, perform aerobatics and more.

Below are five radios. All will fly your typical parkflyer. All but the DX6
can also be purchased with larger servos suitable for larger planes and
gliders. Two are standard radios, for the uncommitted or low budget first
time flyer. These will get your plane off the ground with very basic radio
features for a low price. Each package I list include radio, micro servos,
micro receiver.

STANDARD RADIOS

Hitec Neon 3 - 3 channel standard radio $59
2 micro servos, micro receiver, switch, etc
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXLGF4**&P=7
For $19 you can add a trainer port to this:
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0001P?&I=LXDEK8&P=V

This package is such good value for that first 3 channel ARF or kit, if you
can't afford a computer radio. ( more on that later ) If you bought the two
servos and the receiver by themselves, that would come to about $60. So this
is about as cheap as you can get into a hobby grade radio that will fly a
three channel R/E/T or A/E/T parkflyer or 3 channel
glider ARF or kit plane. It also does not include rechargeable batteries which the others do. You run this one on standard AA batteries.

It includes mixing for flying wings or V-tail 3 channel planes as well as servo reversing. It does not have ATV/EPA or dual rates, however these can be added later at extra cost. . You can also add a trainer port for
use with an instructor or to connect to a flight simulator. You can add a 4th channel but it is limited so don't think of this as a 4 channel radio. It can't fly a 4 channel plane.


Hitec Laser 4 - 4 Channel Standard Radio $129
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXANT7**&P=ML
My minimum recommended 4 channel standard radio for A/E/R/Throttle parkflyer,
glow plane or 4 channel glider. Radio, micro receiver, 3 micro servos,
Switch harness, etc. It will fly a 4 channel aileron plane. Includes V-tail
and Elevon mixing, servo reversing, ATV on ch 1&2 . Also has a trainer port
that can be used with fight simulators or a buddy box.

While the Laser is a good radio, pick the Laser 4 only if you are unsure you
will continue in the hobby and want to spend as little as possible to get a 4
channel plane into the air. Not my recommendation for a committed flyer who
plans to continue in the hobby.


COMPUTER RADIOS - Much Better Choice

In short, computer radios give you things like model memories, exponential, a
variety of surface mixes and more; features not found on standard radios.
Your computer radio can store the profile for many planes and reset itself for
each plane by just selecting the model. Standard radios don't have model
memories or a lot of the other features that computer radios offer. With a
computer radio, you only need one radio to fly a bunch of planes, rather than
dedicating a radio to each plane, or resetting the radio each time you change
planes. Computer radios are great! In the end, they are cheaper. more
convenient AND can make it easier for a new flyer to learn to fly.

These are all 6 channel radios so they will let you fly more advanced planes then either of the radios above.

Spektrum DX 6 - $199 - For the committed Parkflyer pilot
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByCategory/Product/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPM2460
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=623
If your plans are to fly small to medium sized electrics, often called
parkflyers, hand launched gliders with wing spans under 60 inches, this might be your best choice. The DX6 is suitable for flying around 1500 to 2000 feet out. That is about 5-7 football fields away. This is more then enough for these plane and further than most people will fly them. It has a nice mix of features, 10 model memories and is backed by Horizon Hobby, so you can be confident of good service. You will never worry about channel conflict again. This promises to be the RC technology of the future.

Digital DSMT Spread Spectrum Modulation
10 model memories, dual rates, exponential, 6 channels, 8 standard mixes and
three programmable mixes. No crystals needed and no channel conflict control
needed

DX6 Flight experience thread
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=452817&page=2&pp=15
More information on DX6 - Spektrum
http://www.spektrumrc.com/DSM/Better/DX6.html


Futaba 6 EXAS - Entry Level 6 Channel Computer Radio - $160
micro receiver, 3 micro servos, Switch- $160
Receiver in this package is not appropriate for sailplanes or glow planes.
OK for parkflyers/low speed electrics.
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJUV7**&P=ML

The Futaba 6EXAS is an entry level computer radio for the committed flyer who
also plans to fly glow planes, thermal duration gliders or electrics over 60" wing
span. Six channels, 6 model memories, a good mix of features and convenience that will carry you a long way. The link is to a package that is good for parkflyers, but there are other packages if you need larger/stronger
components for larger planes. For about $30 more than the Laser 4 radio you are miles ahead in capability!

Airtronics VG 6000 - $160
http://www.airtronics.net/VG6000.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEUY5**&P=7
This particular package is very attractive for small electrics. Comes with two
small servos AND a 20 amp ESC. 6 channels, 4 model memories, a good mix of features to carry you forward. The VG 6000 is also available with larger components so it can also fly glow planes, and TD gliders that need greater range than the DX6 offers.

There are lots of other good choices in computer radios that have more
channels, more features and a higher price. however these would be excellent
choices for the first time radio buyer or someone stepping up from RTFs who
knows they will continue in the hobby.

[kingsnake93]

I tried inverted flight for the first time. When I went inverted I lost altitude and when I was inverted I could not gain back altitude so when I pulled up I crashed and cracked the fusaloge and bent the thing that the propeler attaches to :( But I ordered a new fusaloge :)

[HottsOne]

Bummer kingsnake.

[kingsnake93]

Bummer kingsnake.
Yeah... But there only 10$ from www.hobbyzone.com not that much of a loss.

[Leo L]

Seems that you didn't remember to fly "three mistakes high".

[HottsOne]

You cannot achieve Dare Devil status wearing protective gear the same as you can't be a great pilot and fly 3 mistakes high. ( he he he )

. . . . . . . . .
. .
. . . . 2 .
. .
. 1 .
____ . . . .________________SPLAT____________________________ ___

Not my best drawing.

[JJFlash]

My Slo-Vee doesn't like inverted much either. Loses a lot of altitude inverting and with stick all the way forward barely gains altitude. Like you said parts are cheap so its worth trying and learning.

JB

[HottsOne]

I am not terribly familiar with the slo v. How is the elevator connected and its movement? Is is a pull-pull servo or like the Aerobird which only uses the servo one way and a runner band for the down force?

The reason I ask is I may be able to offer a suggestion but don't wanna put unnecessary info out there.

[JJFlash]

Its a V-tail, push-pull servos

[HottsOne]

Try adding an additional rubber band to the pull side ( if during regular flight that is the down elevator ) This will give you more pull but not too tight so that the servo works properly for the up elevator. : ) see if that works when you are flying inverted and helps give you more (up elevator when flying upside down.) that is what I did with my challenger.

[aeajr]

There are no rubber bands on the Slo-V, it uses standard control rod set-up.

The deep undercamber wings don't really like being inverted.

[kingsnake93]

You cannot achieve Dare Devil status wearing protective gear the same as you can't be a great pilot and fly 3 mistakes high. ( he he he )

. . . . . . . . .
. .
. . . . 2 .
. .
. 1 .
____ . . . .________________SPLAT____________________________ ___

Not my best drawing.
Three mistakes high? No the Slow-V does not like to be inverted he he he. CRUNCH!

[HottsOne]

Sorry guys, I guess I should have looked into what the slo-v's capabilities were before I started throwing around ideas. As slow as it flies, I am surprised that you can get it to even roll over to its back. Well, good luck and happy flying.

_________________________
Shane Stevenson
onebadrr222@hotmail.com
www.putfile.com/hottsone video page

[kingsnake93]

Ok I will.

[JJFlash]

You had the right idea Hottsone. Thats what the problem is, not enough down elevator.....or whatever you call a V-tail thingy :) A half loop will get it inverted but mine is usually about stall speed in mid-loop so I have to catch it as it falls upsidedown with forward stick. Think my motor has gotten weak but still fun to fly.

[kingsnake93]

Well, Winter is coming soon which means SNOW. Since it will snow soon (at least I hope so) I put skis on my Slow-V. I cut out mini skis out of card board put then on my Slow-V and then covered it with wax paper.

[Doug Sipprell]

Post a picture or two if you get some, would be interesting to see your design.

RD

[kingsnake93]

Post a picture or two if you get some, would be interesting to see your design.

RD
I dont know how but i will ask my dad.