Summer sneak preview

Model Airplane News, Jul 2002 by Sharp, Debra

At this year's annual RC airplane trade show in Toledo, hosted for the 48th time by the Weak Signals RC Club, the "state of the hobby" was incredibly strong and upbeat, with literally hundreds of new products hitting the market. We picked 50 of our favorites, and you'll find them in this issue's special eight-- page "Air Scoop." Most interesting was the variety of new planes and gear-from a 1/3-scale, almost-ready-to-fly (ARF) Sukhoi to a 7-ounce ducted-fan MiG to a miniature, indoor electric helicopter. Giant-scale models and engines made up a majority of the new releases, but backyard flyers continue to increase in popularity, with dozens of new models and power systems becoming available. We're also excited about the newest generation of electric ducted-fan models. Check out these and other great new RC products on page 12.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

RC helicopters are enjoying an increase in popularity these days, due mostly to the availability of high-quality, low-cost models that can be built in just a few hours. Some of these ARF hells even come with engines installed! If you've ever wanted to get into rotary flight, you won't want to miss associate editor Rick Bell's "Almost-Ready-to-Fly Helicopter Guide" on page 32. It also includes basic tips on tools, training gear, equipment installation and troubleshooting vibration. BALANCING PROPS Reducing vibration is very important in fixed-wing aircraft; it helps to minimize wear and tear on your engine and airframe. One of the easiest ways to do this is to balance your prop. In this month's "Real Performance Measurement" column, Dave Gierke shares easy, step-by-step procedures that will ensure your success, whether you're flying with wood or composite 2-, 3-, or 4-blade props. Don't forget to perform this important step before you fly!

NOT WING TRICKS

Pattern enthusiasts will appreciate Dan Wolanski's detailed description of the figure-N and its variations. Although this maneuver looks simple, it can be difficult to master; check out Dan's in-depth analysis and tips on page 104, and you'll be on your way to adding this versatile maneuver to your flight repertoire.

Aerobatics aren't limited to large RC craft; the newest generation of electricpowered backyard flyers is capable of performing the most outrageous maneuvers. Check out guest columnist Jef Raskin's "Backyard Flyer" on page 88, and see what the WattAge Crazy Max, a 35-inch-span aerobat, can deliver.

ARF CONTEST

Don't forget to send in your entry to the "Great RC Redesign Contest" by September 1, 2002; the top winner will be awarded more than $500 in cash and prizes. Any personalized, commercially available ARF model is eligible; send photos and a 100-word description to us at man@airage.com or 100 East Ridge, Ridgefield, CT 06877-4606 USA. Good luck and good flying.