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This is the directory page to our discussions on 60 size
RC helis.
Most RC heli pilots want to fly .60-sized helis. They are
bigger and thus easier to see and more stable. Also they tend
to be FAR easier to perform autorotations with due to the larger
blades, which have the dual advantages of greater mass and stored
energy and more area for flare and touchdown.
In general we tend to recommend 30 helis to beginners.
They "only" reason for this is cost. The 60s will cost
from $200 to $1000 more for the kit, but that's just part of
the added expense. You also need a more expensive engine, muffler
and possibly radio. ("Possibly" meaning you do NOT
want to use anything less than ball bearing equipped servos for
a 60 heli - but then we really don't like to use anyting less
on a 30 either). And don't forget PARTS - they will usually cost
50-100% more for a 60. If none of that bothers you, then by all
means start with a 60 machine.
Here's a basic rundown of our favorite 60s. We'll add heli-specific
pages as time allows with more in-depth reviews. Feel free to
call us at (406) 245-8480 for more information, or to order call
us toll-free at 1-877-435-4776.
60 Helis for Training
Of the 60s on the market, there are three in particular that
we like for novice heli pilots. They are the JR Ergo 60, the
Miniature Aircrfaft 1001 Sport Trainer, and the Robbe Futura
SS.
The TT Raptor 60 is our
recommendation for a first time heli buyer's first 60. It is
a stable chopper that is MUCH easier to build and repair than
most. It's also the least expensive 60 on the market. Parts tend
to be readily available and fairly affordable, and it's easy
to upgrade as much as you wish. Most of the control arms are
bushed on the stock kit.With OS 70 this is a great 3D machine!
The Futura SS and the X-Cell Sport Trainer are
about even in our books. Price is low for either, and both build
into great flying helis. The X-Cell wins in both parts cost and
availability, both of which are excellent. The Futura SS wins
in the "ease of building" department. Both can be upgraded
to much higher class machines after the training period if you
wish. You may also want to look at the Hirobo
Freya in this class - at under $700 it is a great flying
heli with low parts pricing.
60 Advanced Helis
Once you move beyond the "basic" 60 heli, a lot
of the differences come down to looks and brand preference. In
the "mid" range price wise there are three helis we
really like - the JR Vigor, , Hirobo
Freya, and the Miniature Aircraft 1003 Competition Trainer.
All weigh in at well below the $1000 level, but have full compliments
of ball bearings and are excellent flying machines that can (as
with almost all helis now available) fly either "smooth
and tame" or "wild and wooly" depending on how
you set them up. All use conventional mixing (not CCPM)
Our choice goes to the Vigor as offering the best value
- MAINLY because it is SO much simpler to build and maintain.
Extremely low parts count, pre-built rotor head and one of the
most rigid and accessable frame sets tip the scales to JR. (It
does NOT include any main rotor blades.) The Freya is
also an excellent choice for good performance and simple design.
The TT Raptor 60 is our recommendation
for the least expensive HOT 60 heli..With OS 70 this is a great
3D machine!
The X-Cell Competition Trainer has the advantage in
speed and weight - it's a more compact heli. It also has a ready
upgrade path to the Special Edition (SE) level and can be fitted
with the Pro-Style tail rotor control, which is among the best
in the world for TR control integrity.
The XL Fury and Extreme are reasonably priced, well designed
helis that are capable sport flyers and - especially the Extreme
- excellent 3D helis.
60 Advanced Helis - Top End
We don't stock the $2500+ machines because there's just not
much call for them. Besides sponsored pilots (who get them free)
we don't see many folks flying the Kalt Zues, JR Superio, Kyosho
Caliber and so on. We'll gladly order you one but we don't keep
them on the shelf.
We DO have all the top-end 60s that ARE readily available
and almost reasonable in cost. To start with, we'll include the
Vigor and VIGOR CS in this group also as it's really the
top of the line from JR in practical terms. If you simply add
a few upgrades like carbon frames, metal swash arms, metal BB
elevator controls, carbon fins and such you get to a world class
heli with all the shiney bits you could want.
The Robbe/Schluter Cuatro and Nova at under $1000 each,
are very much top class helis. . Both have a unique 45-degree
offset swashplate system and are etremely good flying helis.
The German engineering and construction are superb also - these
helis have some real innovative design elements. Canopys are
very light ready to use PLASTIC devices. They are probably too
light - they tend not to hold up well and will NOT survive a
crash as the plastic JR ones will. The fuel tanks are properly
located for CG considerations. The Cuatro is designed for
the 80-90 engines.
The Miniature Aircraft X-Cell 60 Special Edition is
also in the $1100 range and is a top-notch heli. Miniature's
machines tend to be more parts-intensive and require a bit more
care in setup, but they fly and hold up extremely well. The SE
has graphite frames, glass canopy, full ball bearings and thrust
bearings and includes the Pro-Style tail rotor control, which
is among the best in the world for TR control integrity.
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