AMCross
Apr 23, 2004, 03:30 PM
!OVERVIEW
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<i>Editor's note: This coverage will focus on fuel-powered models. For E-powered model coverage and some glider coverage, please see <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/4411">E Zone's coverage, including an interview with Charlie Hua of UltraFly Models and E Toc coverage (coming soon)</a>!</i>
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The RCGroups booth was quite a busy place, with lots of old friends visiting, and meeting lots of new friends and future site members. Thanks, everyone for coming by! The first 2 prizes of our new <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=215657">RCGroups promotion</a> drew a lot of attention! More great prizes, in all areas of the hobby, coming soon!
@906660:The first announced prize... Thanks, Great Planes, for a brand new Lancair ARF kit, and loan of this show model to display!
@906661:The second announced prize.....Thanks, Goldberg, for another great prize...the Super Decathlon ARF, ideal for glow or e-conversion!
@906662:A special thanks to Aerospace Composites for loaning us carbon fiber rod so the "WIN ME" sign would hang properly below the Great Planes Lancair!
!Booths with Interesting Fuel-Powered Models
!!<a href="http://www.acehobby.com">ACE HOBBY/ThunderTigre</a>
@906663:Ace's new .40 sized 3D aerobat...so new we didn't even get any literature on it!
@906664:Ace's new dragonfly 15 -- another newby not even in the literature yet. This .15 powered little trainer-style bird will be a nice addition to the fueled park flyer lineup.
@906665:What we ALL went to the Ace booth to see...the Ace Rare Bear ARF! This 63" span 8-9 lb. scale replica of the Reno Racer speed demon is designed for the powerplants most of us have many of -- .61-.91 2-stroke or 91-120 40stroke...no exotic needs to get this exotic race plane in the air! Curious to know more about the full scale modified Bearcat flown by Lyle Shelton? There are hundreds of articles about this bird on the web, but this is one of my favorites -- <a href="http://www.aafo.com/racing/2002/rarebear_engine_1/">an indepth look at a pre-race engine change on Rare Bare in 2002.</a>
@906666:There was also lots of discussion on the Raptor V2...a full wall advertisement for it shown here. The show flier also included info on the .50 sized V2 and Raptor 90 as well as lots of optional parts for this amazingly popular line of birds.
@906667:My 1/5 scale (electric) ducati photo wasn't clear, but the manufacturer's webpage shot is! Does this look like fun or what? The FM-1e 1/5 scale onroad competition motorcycle, comes RTR.
Ace Hobby displayed a broad range of exciting product, from electric park fliers to the Rare Bear ARF, wrapped up with a new budget line of radios, the Ace Sky Commander T4 and T8.
!!<a href="http://www.aeromarinerc.com">Aeromarine Laminates
@906668:Aeromarine had an impressive booth of all sorts of boats, including this huge, sharp looking Avenger.
!!<a href="http://www.airtronics.net">Airtronics</a>
Airtronics always has a lot to offer, and this year was no different. Like many traditionally glow-focused booths of the show, though, most of what was truly showcased was electric equipment. Sorry, folks, no exciting glow photos for Airtronics.
!!<a href="http://www.nitroelements.com">Art Attack Snowmobiles by Nitro Elements</a>
@906669:Art Attack, a US r/c manufacturer, showed
@906670:these 1/4 scale nitro powered snowmobiles!
!!<a href="http://www.balsausa.com">Balsa USA!</a>
@906671:The 1/3 scale ercoupe kit was the centerpiece of Balsa USA's huge booth display. At an astounding TEN FOOT wingspan, this 28-32 lb aircraft is designed for 45-55 cc gas engines or 3-3.5 cu in glow.
@906672:The details on this exciting new kit are displayed here.
Balsa USA's booth had a huge array of models to gawk at, but everything else was shadowed behind this amazing new ercoupe. Having flown in a real 'coupe, this one really caught my eye and had me gawking for a long time...when I could get close enough to gawk at all!
!!<a href="http://www.brisonrcengines.com">Brison</a>
@906673:It was great to see an old friend in Gary from Brison...and to see his reliable motors sporting a sharp new polished chrome finish! The 100cc twin is now down to 88 oz!
@906674:Brison also showed their new revolution line of engines....definitely something to watch for in the future of RC performance engines!
!!<a href="http://www.cermark.com">Cermark</a>
@906675:Cermark's new banshee and the blue Pitts ARF anchor the Cermark booth. Watch RCPower for reviews of these great new aircraft, coming soon!
@906676:Cermark's new "Super Tire" wheel lineup were quite sharp looking indeed, with barstock quality aluminum hubs, real rubber tires, and 3 inserts for varied wheel axles.
Cermark's new, very complete, G-3D Banchee 3D aerobat ARF. With a 54" wingspan, 53" length, on 710 square inches of wing, and a 4.8 lb flying weight on .40 2stroke or .52 4-stroke, the Banchee G-3D (and its electric brother) look to have a lot to offer the 3D pilot. (Available in white with green or white with purple transparent.) Cermark had a variety of other newer aircraft to display as well, including the new pitts S2B blue, the graduate 40 ARF low wing, a really sharp 1/4 scale Sukhoi in deep blue or pearl pink, the Javelin-II 58" aerobatic bird with patternesque widebody lines but without a classic pattern price tag.
!!<a href="http://www.chiphyde.com">Chip Hyde Products</a>
@906677:Chip Hyde's new company debuted a variety of aircraft at Toledo,
@906678:including the impressive double vision 3D ARF. With a 75" wingspan, 1600 sq in of wing, and a flying weight of roughly 13.5 lbs, the Double Vision performs on a 50cc gas engine.
!!<a href="http://www.conleyprecision.com">Conley Precision Motors</a>
@906679:Conley Motors produces the most amazing 1/4 scale
@906680:model V8 and other engines.
!!<a href="http://home.earthlink.net/~whizzz/welcome.htm">CS Engines</a>
@906681:This engine manufacturer steps to the plate, wtih more than 50 engines in its lineup, and merging into Raptorz!
!!<a href="http://www.desertaircraft.com">Desert Aircraft</a>
@906682:Desert Aircraft had literally thousands of dollars worth of CF props at the show, along with a huge array of impressive engines -- with lots of discussion on the new DA50R, and great flight video.
!!<a href="http://duralitebatteries.com">Duralite Batteries</a>
@906683:Duralite, THE ONLY NAME in LiPoly batteries to most gas and glow pilots, had this amazing beauty suspended above their booth.
!!<a href="http://www.extremeflightrc.com">Extreme Flight R/C</a>
Extreme Flight had a broad range of aerobatic models, from e-power to 40 size to the DA-50 powered Yak shown below.
@906684:Some of what Extreme had to offer.
@906685:The Extreme Yak-54 was quite impressive. With a 87" span, 84" length, flying weight of 16-17 lbs, the Yak callws for 2.7-3.2 cu in of gasoline power, and is anticipated to ship Summer 2004. Now taking backorders.
@906686:This Yak-ish profile also looked like an enormous amount of fun! And was accompanied also by a 40 sized edge profile and a variety of other interesting aircraft.
!!<a href="http://www.fmadirect.com"> FMA </a>
FMA showed their exciting new copilot-failsafe-8ch-FM-receiver-in-one, the FS8. Impressive new technology to help ensure success for the new pilot! (Sorry, photo was too bad to show.) Look for a multipart review of this exciting new technology across RC Power, E Zone, and LiftZone in the near future!
!!<a href="http://glowire.com"> Glowire Electroluminescent Lighting</a>
@906687:Glowire had the most unique booth -- an EZ-up with enclosed sides to show off the bright neon products. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
!!<a href="http://www.carlgoldbergproducts.com">Goldberg!</a>
I have to start with a big thank you to Goldberg for donating the 80+" Giant Scale <a href="http://www.carlgoldbergproducts.com/decathlonARF.htm">Super Decathlon ARF</a> shown above as one of the first prizes for our new <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=215657">RCGroups promotion</a>!
@906688:Goldberg had a broad range of models in their booth. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
@906689:The 30% ultimate ARF from Goldberg was definitely worth visiting. This massive all-wood ARF beast sports a pair of 70.5" wings, a total area of 1692 sq in of area, 78" fuse length, weighing 20-22 lbs and requiring 9 servos.
@906690:The new Ex-Treme 540 ARF profile is based upon an Edge 540, spans 45", with an impressive 703 sq in of wing area, and just 4.5-5 lb flying weight, for a .32-46 2-stroke or .40-63 4-stroke. Note the airfoiled tail!!
!!<a href="http://www.greatplanes.com">Great Planes/Hobbico</a>
@906691:The Great Planes Little Toni ARF, Christen Eagle II ARF, DC3 electric ARF, Rapture kit, and more!
@906692:Another angle on the wall-o-planes, focusing on the show stopper for Great Planes -- the Super Stearman ARF! Who DOESN'T recognize THIS scale plane???
@906693:A better look at the exciting new Christian Eagle.
*GP's wall-o'-planes included:
*the new Little Toni ARF (63" span with fiberglass fuse);
*the Christen Eagle ARF (nearly 66" span bipe with fiberglass cowling; 16-18 lbs, 1.6-2.2 glow or 2-3.2 cu in gas, wood built up structure and scale moments)-- Review coming soon!;
*the 60" span Rapture 40 kit (review in process!);
*the Super Stearman ARF (71.5" span, built up structure, fiberglass cowl and fairings; look for a fuel review by Dick Pettit, coming soon!);
*The GP Sukhoi SU31 3D ARF Profile (40" span, requires brusless motor, look for a review coming soon in E Zone!)
*and many more.
@906694:Look out ARF world -- here comes Top Flite! Top Flite has long been known for impressive sport scale kits, including giant scale. Now they've added ARFs to the Top Flite lineup, starting with this massive beauty. This big baby sports the Big Beautiful Doll covering scheme in genuine MonoKote, and is 73" long, 84.5" span, 1245 sq in of wing, weighing 17-19 lbs and requiring a 34-46cc 2stroke glow or 40-70 gas engine. Due to ship in late May!
@906695:And Top Flite also returns to the world of control line -- ARF style. The classic flite streak returns in a .25-40 sized sport plane, 41.5" span, 398 area, 25 oz flying weight.
@906696:And another classic bird for the control line ARF lineup -- the Nobler.
@906697:The exciting new mid-line computer radio for Futaba, the 7C. See <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/4405">RC Power</a> for a review of this great new radio!
@906698:Futaba's new CR2000 battery charger, including autocutoff with audio alert, peak detection, LCD display, cigarette-lighter adapter, and more.
!!<a href="http://www.quickworldwide.com">Helis & Hobbies International/Quick Worldwide</a>
@906699:HHI's booth was accented by a huge, highly mounted plasma display showing their varied products.
@906700:Quick demonstrated numerous impressive glow-powered helis, from the Quick 30, 50 and 60, @hhi_helis.jpg:to the Learner, Sport and Pro machines.
@906701:HHI's Giant Scale Planes division had literally a massive wall of ARF aircraft, including this 73" Mosquito, with fiberglass fuselage, 52.5" length, and a flying weight of 11-12 lbs.
@906702:The new Yak 54, in 72" span, also drew a lot of attention. With its fiberglass fuse and low price tag, this is an exciting new addition to the aerobatic scale arena.
!!<a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">Hitec/Multiplex</a>
The Hitec/Multiplex show booth was again the most spacious, comfortable, European, impressive looking booth at the show.
@906703:Hitec displayed all its new smaller products on a single board, directly behind the Multiplex electric aircraft lineup.
@906704:The 92 in oz HS6965MB servo.
@906705:The 119 in oz HS6975HB servo.
@906706:The 144 in oz HS6985MB servo.
@906707:The 153 in oz HS765HB servo.
@906708:The massive 153 in oz HS785HB sail winch servo.
@906709:The amazingly strong 200+ in oz HS5745MG servo.
@906710:Hitec's impressive servo display.
!!<a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">Hobby Lobby</a>
@906711:Hobby Lobby's booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
Hobby Lobby was a proud sponsor of many of the E-TOC pilots, including Chip Hyde(!), who did some impressive indoor aerobatics Friday night.
!!<a href="/articles/rcpowermag/2004/apr/toledo/www.horizonhobby.com">Horizon Hobby</a>
The Horizon Hobby booth was right next to RCGroups, and what a busy site it was all weekend! Horizon's site has a superb layout to walk the user through their products, from beginner park flyers through an amazing display of power with JR's digital servos for giant scale birds, and more. Even though some of this is e-powered equipment, because the booth flows so cleanly when viewed this way, I'm going to include some of the e-equipment as well.
@906712:Hangar 9's new trainer cord -- allowing JR master radios to work with Futaba and Hitec student radios for easier trainer support.
!!!Hobbyzone:
Park flyers for beginners, in a truly complete "all in one box" package
@906713:Hobbyzone's newest and largest addition...the Aerobird Xtreme. The largest, and most complex model in the Aerobird lineup.
@906714:The Xtreme spans over 4 1/2 feet and is a skill zone 3 "not for beginners" aircraft. Includes options for one-on-one combat and more! Watch for an E Zone review of a pair of these birds, including combat video, coming soon!
!!!Parkzone:
When you've outgrown Hobbyzone but still want "all in one package" park fliers...Horizon introduced the new parkzone lineup -- park flier backyard fun, but more complex, more aerobatic, a 'next step' for those outgrowing the hobbyzone lineup. Include multiple flight modes for growing into new skills, and still "all in one box" technology -- fully decal-ed and ready to go, complete with 27mhz radio system, chargers and all. Look for the SloV coming soon to join this interesting new group.
@906715:The ParkZone cub, the first of the "Charge and Fly" park flyers. Not meant for beginners. Span of 37", 26" long, 15 oz, with 3 proportional channels.
@906716:The ParkZone F27 Stryker -- fully aerobatic, 3-transmitter-selectable flight modes, flight assist -- all in a 37" span, 27" long, 21 oz package.
!!!E-flite: moving into more complex models
E-Flite is another new line in the Horizon family. The ascent adds a 54" polyhedral glider/park flier to Horizon's already extensive lineup. And the 2 foam profile ARFs add indoor 3D aerobatic birds already tested, setup, and complete, ready for your radio gear and to be in the air. Definitely an interesting new area for glow pilots who ALSO want to do some indoor 3D!
@906717:The E-Flite Ascent 54" span, 32" length, fiberglass fuselage park flyer/electric glider.
@906718:The Ultimate and Tribute 3D ARFs wrap up the new E-flite lineup with awesome indoor profile ARF 3D aerobats. At 28" and 37" spans respectively, and 9 oz weights each, these new birds are amazing.
!!!Seagull Models: A budget minded alternative for .40-.90 sized sport models
@906719:The new Seagull line showed 6 new models, including the Harrier 3D .90. This 60.5" span model weighs 7-8 lbs and requires a .61-1.0 2stroke or .90-1.20 4stroke for great aerobatic fun.
!!!Hangar 9:When you're looking for quality and performance
@906720:The new Twist ARF sports a "square" 48" wingspan and length, and offers fun performance on 40-58 2strokes or 50-72 4strokes.
@906721:The amazingly popular funtana gets a 90 sized big brother!
Hangar 9 offers a huge range of models, with the Twist ARF being just one of many in the new line up that we hope to see as e-conversions here on E Zone!
@906722:And when you've grown up into the big time, Horizon offers amazing giant scale aerobatic arfs, including the <a href="http://horizon.hobbyshopnow.com/ProdInfo/PagesAUX/1320-ART.asp?pg=5">9.5" wingspan 33% Edge 540</a>. Weighing 22-24 lbs, the recommended power is a Zenoah GT80 and sports a 2-piece wing for easy transport.
!!! JR radio systems:
Radios from when you've outgrown "all in a box" models to when you're flying world level models of any type.
@906723:JR's most impressive demonstration of digital servo power...
@906724:four servos together lifting more than 640 oz of weight!
@906725:At last, hands-on "here's how you do that" help right at a trade show.
JR had their help desk manned all weekend with experienced modelers, helping customers explore new realms with their radios, find the right radio for their needs, and more. And a HUGE ad promoted the new JR 6102 computer radio with graphical display as the backdrop.
!!!Evolution Engines: A budget-minded "no fuss" sport engine line
This engine line focuses on easy performance, with no tuning hassles, right from the package, and Toledo included a display of the new .36NT (sorry, no photo.)
!!!Saito Engines:When only top quality 4-strokes will do
@906726:Saito's latest release is the .82 -- the power of an .82 in the case of a .72! Offered in classic and, of course, Saito's instantly recognizable "GK" version with gold accents.
!!!Revolution Helicopter Support
@906727:With a superb line of JR helicopters available, Horizon also stocks the Revolution parts lineup for repairs, upgrades, hop-ups, and all out heli fun...
@906728:all with a reasonable price tag.
!!Wendell Hostettler Plans
@906729:Wendell Hostettlers new 26.6% Stinson -- 108" span, 80 1/3" length, 14-15 lbs, and capable of glow power, or, ... powered by HACKER50.
@906730:The plans for the big Stinson.
!!<a href="http://www.jethangar.com">Jet Hangar Hobbies Jets</a>
Jet Hangar Hobbies, long known in the glow- and gas- and then turbine-DF community, also brought 2 exciting new EDFs to the market at Toledo. See the E Zone coverage for details.
@906731:JHH displayed an impressive turbine setup, the Wren MW54 Turbo-Prop, making 44 lbs of thrust spinning an 18x6 3-blade, with a thermal fluid coupling free turbine and gear box design.
@906732:The turbine F4D skyray is 1/9th scale, 61" long, and sports a 46" wingspan. It is designed for an MW54 turbine or 5" ducted fan, and this kit is still in development for some time to come.
@906733:Here owner Larry Wolf poses with a finished skyray and a fuselage.
!!<a href="http://www.lanierrc.com">Lanier</a>
@906734:The new Razor 3D all wood ARF spans 52" and weighs just 4.5-5 lbs -- ideal for an electric conversion for outdoor 3D fun!
@906735:A nice idea -- this ARF is available in 4 different trim schemes.
@906736:The new combat kit - Ripper -- spans 60.5" and weighs 2.25-2.75 lbs. Can you say combat fun?
Lanier always has a fun and exciting ARF lineup -- from warbirds to giant scale aerobats, and everything in between. And their new "21st Century ARF" model lineup combines Lanier pricing with really nice quality birds.
!!<a href="http://www.matneymodels.com">Matney Models</a>
@906737:Matney models specializes in fiberglass products. (Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.)
Matney offers high quality fiberglass airplane kits for electric ducted fan, electric pylon racing, as well as for AMA QM40 and Q-500 class pylon racing, scale aerobatics, and contest winning sail planes.
!!<a href="http://www.midwestproducts.com">Midwest</a>
@906738:This flexible airplane/boat/car and more stand displayed the PT109 nicely!
Midwest carries a broad range of glow product, including distributing a new line, Falcon Trading ARFs. Unfortunately, the memory chip I used to take photos in the Midwest/Falcon Trading booth failed, and the photos were lost. :-( So, photos from the manufacturers site are used here instead.
@906739:Falcon is offering this sharp looking new Cessna 177 ARF for .60 2stroke or .91 4stroke engines, sporting corrugated ailerons and airfoil tail surfaces.
Falcon also sported several plastic-fuse ARFs specificall intended for float flying...fun stuff! And Midwest continues to demonstrate a really nice line of wood kits to build for everything from aerobatics to military scale with a sharp messerschmitt .40.
!!<a href="http://www.miniatureaircraftusa.com">Miniature Aircraft/XCell</a>
@906740:Miniature now offering a different option...gasoline power!
@906741:This was too big to leave out of even the glow article....this exciting new .90 sized performance bird, designed specifically for e-power.
@906742:A huge array of new hop ups were displayed for the
@906743:tempest and other miniature birds.
!!<a href="http://www.mrc.com">MRC/Model Rectifier Corporation</a>
@906744:Their new Reflex simulator also drew lots of attention, with large plasma screens for display. Photo courtesy of Pat Mattes.
@906745:The Hirobo heli display was impressive, but overshadowed by the huge plasma screens for Reflex.
MRC had a huge range of items, from a repeat showing of their adorable Hirobo XRB corded heli, to their full range of gas helicopters as well.
!!<a href="/articles/rcpowermag/2004/apr/toledo/www.nikitisaircraft.com">Nikitis</a>
@906746:Nikitis offers everything from CNC cut electric kits seen here to an 80" YAK 54 ARF. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
!!<a href="http://www.pacepaintbooths.com">Pace Paint PeaceKeeper</a>
@906747:The sign says it all.
@906748:Interesting idea! Great for my allergies, no doubt!
!!<a href="http://www.perfectpilots.com"> Perfect Pilots</a>
@906749:These pilots, painted and unpainted, were nothing short of astounding.
!!<a href="http://www.rchelisplus.com">RC Helis Plus</a>
@906750:Len Sabato's new company showed an impressive lineup of items.
@906751:The hoverfly prelude boasts great indoor performance, safety, factory test-flown, and no batteries needed!
!!Scande Research (couldn't find a website)
@906752:The Scande Research Demon flying wing has been around a lonnnng time, and it is shown here with its larger brother, the Super Demon.
!!<a href="http://www.shulmanaviation.com">Shulman Aviation</a>
@906753:The Shulman booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
@906754:Shulman displayed heavy duty silicone servo leads for those giant scale high load projects.
@906755:Jason Shulman's 3D monster -- Exhila!
@906756:The Exhila ARF comes in 2 colors, has a 35" wingspan, weighs 18-22 oz, and flies well on a speed 400 or better on brushless.
!!<a href="http://www.sigmfg.com">Sig</a>
@906757:Unfortunately, some battery problems resulted in my losing the photos taken at the Sig booth. Sig always has a broad range of fun items in their booth, including the new Nitro Rascal -- watch for a review here on RC Power, coming soon!
!!<a href="http://srbatteries.com">SR Batteries</a>
@906758:Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
SR Batteries was showing an exciting new electric/gas project -- a 100" Eindecker! (Review, powered both gas and electric, coming soon to RCPower and E Zone!) SR is obviously excited about this new project, and lots of photos are available here:
http://srbatteries.com/new/eindecker.htm
!!<a href="http://www.stevensaero.com">Stevens AeroModel</a>
@906759:The Stevens Aero cap in bones in-front of their booth signage.
@906760:Finally available, the Stevens Aero larger park flying cap has arrived and is now available to order! With a 55" span, 50" length, and weighing 43-56 oz ready to fly, this cap can do it all, and look great to boot! While designed for electric, this adorable little kit could easily be retrofitted to glow. (Did I just say that? Retrofitted *TO* glow?)
!!<a href="http://www.taurus-engines.net">Taurus Engines</a>
@906761:The Taurus 6.6 inline twin. COOL!
!!<a href="http://www.zplanes.com">Z Planes</a>
@906762:The Z Planes booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
!COMPETITION AIRPLANES
@906763:LET THE AWARDS BEGIN! Weak Signals always have an amazing set of awards for their contestants, and put on a superb presentation.
Be sure to visit the E Zone coverage to see some of the electric models in this year's competition. For a full listing of all winners, please visit the <a href="http://toledoshow.com/winnersa.html">Weak Signals Show Coverage Website.</a>
@906764:Just some of the prizes for the competitors!
@906765:Thousands of dollars were raised with the scholarship raffle. Look at those prizes!
@906766:Jason Noll's Extra took first in aerobatic aircraft.
@906767:Even the signage for this Carden 330 was impressive!
@906768:Faye Stilley's first place covering class winner, the Curtiss DareDevil!
@906769:This Drambuie On Ice Speedboat won first place, and was a real beauty!
@906770:Tom Pierce's Dauntless also won first place in military sport plane.
@906771:Statistics for the Best Of Show Winner, Tom Pierce's Dauntless.
@906772:Dave Platt's impressive Vought Kingfisher took 2nd in designer scale.
@dave_plattskingfisherstats.jpg:Stats for Dave Platt's Kingfisher.
@906773:This XV15 Osprey was astounding!
@906774:Stats and details on the Osprey.
!E-TOC
E-TOC coverage to follow in a separate article in <a href=http://www.ezonemag.com">E Zone</a>.
<div class = "dashed">
<i>Editor's note: This coverage will focus on fuel-powered models. For E-powered model coverage and some glider coverage, please see <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/4411">E Zone's coverage, including an interview with Charlie Hua of UltraFly Models and E Toc coverage (coming soon)</a>!</i>
</div>
The RCGroups booth was quite a busy place, with lots of old friends visiting, and meeting lots of new friends and future site members. Thanks, everyone for coming by! The first 2 prizes of our new <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=215657">RCGroups promotion</a> drew a lot of attention! More great prizes, in all areas of the hobby, coming soon!
@906660:The first announced prize... Thanks, Great Planes, for a brand new Lancair ARF kit, and loan of this show model to display!
@906661:The second announced prize.....Thanks, Goldberg, for another great prize...the Super Decathlon ARF, ideal for glow or e-conversion!
@906662:A special thanks to Aerospace Composites for loaning us carbon fiber rod so the "WIN ME" sign would hang properly below the Great Planes Lancair!
!Booths with Interesting Fuel-Powered Models
!!<a href="http://www.acehobby.com">ACE HOBBY/ThunderTigre</a>
@906663:Ace's new .40 sized 3D aerobat...so new we didn't even get any literature on it!
@906664:Ace's new dragonfly 15 -- another newby not even in the literature yet. This .15 powered little trainer-style bird will be a nice addition to the fueled park flyer lineup.
@906665:What we ALL went to the Ace booth to see...the Ace Rare Bear ARF! This 63" span 8-9 lb. scale replica of the Reno Racer speed demon is designed for the powerplants most of us have many of -- .61-.91 2-stroke or 91-120 40stroke...no exotic needs to get this exotic race plane in the air! Curious to know more about the full scale modified Bearcat flown by Lyle Shelton? There are hundreds of articles about this bird on the web, but this is one of my favorites -- <a href="http://www.aafo.com/racing/2002/rarebear_engine_1/">an indepth look at a pre-race engine change on Rare Bare in 2002.</a>
@906666:There was also lots of discussion on the Raptor V2...a full wall advertisement for it shown here. The show flier also included info on the .50 sized V2 and Raptor 90 as well as lots of optional parts for this amazingly popular line of birds.
@906667:My 1/5 scale (electric) ducati photo wasn't clear, but the manufacturer's webpage shot is! Does this look like fun or what? The FM-1e 1/5 scale onroad competition motorcycle, comes RTR.
Ace Hobby displayed a broad range of exciting product, from electric park fliers to the Rare Bear ARF, wrapped up with a new budget line of radios, the Ace Sky Commander T4 and T8.
!!<a href="http://www.aeromarinerc.com">Aeromarine Laminates
@906668:Aeromarine had an impressive booth of all sorts of boats, including this huge, sharp looking Avenger.
!!<a href="http://www.airtronics.net">Airtronics</a>
Airtronics always has a lot to offer, and this year was no different. Like many traditionally glow-focused booths of the show, though, most of what was truly showcased was electric equipment. Sorry, folks, no exciting glow photos for Airtronics.
!!<a href="http://www.nitroelements.com">Art Attack Snowmobiles by Nitro Elements</a>
@906669:Art Attack, a US r/c manufacturer, showed
@906670:these 1/4 scale nitro powered snowmobiles!
!!<a href="http://www.balsausa.com">Balsa USA!</a>
@906671:The 1/3 scale ercoupe kit was the centerpiece of Balsa USA's huge booth display. At an astounding TEN FOOT wingspan, this 28-32 lb aircraft is designed for 45-55 cc gas engines or 3-3.5 cu in glow.
@906672:The details on this exciting new kit are displayed here.
Balsa USA's booth had a huge array of models to gawk at, but everything else was shadowed behind this amazing new ercoupe. Having flown in a real 'coupe, this one really caught my eye and had me gawking for a long time...when I could get close enough to gawk at all!
!!<a href="http://www.brisonrcengines.com">Brison</a>
@906673:It was great to see an old friend in Gary from Brison...and to see his reliable motors sporting a sharp new polished chrome finish! The 100cc twin is now down to 88 oz!
@906674:Brison also showed their new revolution line of engines....definitely something to watch for in the future of RC performance engines!
!!<a href="http://www.cermark.com">Cermark</a>
@906675:Cermark's new banshee and the blue Pitts ARF anchor the Cermark booth. Watch RCPower for reviews of these great new aircraft, coming soon!
@906676:Cermark's new "Super Tire" wheel lineup were quite sharp looking indeed, with barstock quality aluminum hubs, real rubber tires, and 3 inserts for varied wheel axles.
Cermark's new, very complete, G-3D Banchee 3D aerobat ARF. With a 54" wingspan, 53" length, on 710 square inches of wing, and a 4.8 lb flying weight on .40 2stroke or .52 4-stroke, the Banchee G-3D (and its electric brother) look to have a lot to offer the 3D pilot. (Available in white with green or white with purple transparent.) Cermark had a variety of other newer aircraft to display as well, including the new pitts S2B blue, the graduate 40 ARF low wing, a really sharp 1/4 scale Sukhoi in deep blue or pearl pink, the Javelin-II 58" aerobatic bird with patternesque widebody lines but without a classic pattern price tag.
!!<a href="http://www.chiphyde.com">Chip Hyde Products</a>
@906677:Chip Hyde's new company debuted a variety of aircraft at Toledo,
@906678:including the impressive double vision 3D ARF. With a 75" wingspan, 1600 sq in of wing, and a flying weight of roughly 13.5 lbs, the Double Vision performs on a 50cc gas engine.
!!<a href="http://www.conleyprecision.com">Conley Precision Motors</a>
@906679:Conley Motors produces the most amazing 1/4 scale
@906680:model V8 and other engines.
!!<a href="http://home.earthlink.net/~whizzz/welcome.htm">CS Engines</a>
@906681:This engine manufacturer steps to the plate, wtih more than 50 engines in its lineup, and merging into Raptorz!
!!<a href="http://www.desertaircraft.com">Desert Aircraft</a>
@906682:Desert Aircraft had literally thousands of dollars worth of CF props at the show, along with a huge array of impressive engines -- with lots of discussion on the new DA50R, and great flight video.
!!<a href="http://duralitebatteries.com">Duralite Batteries</a>
@906683:Duralite, THE ONLY NAME in LiPoly batteries to most gas and glow pilots, had this amazing beauty suspended above their booth.
!!<a href="http://www.extremeflightrc.com">Extreme Flight R/C</a>
Extreme Flight had a broad range of aerobatic models, from e-power to 40 size to the DA-50 powered Yak shown below.
@906684:Some of what Extreme had to offer.
@906685:The Extreme Yak-54 was quite impressive. With a 87" span, 84" length, flying weight of 16-17 lbs, the Yak callws for 2.7-3.2 cu in of gasoline power, and is anticipated to ship Summer 2004. Now taking backorders.
@906686:This Yak-ish profile also looked like an enormous amount of fun! And was accompanied also by a 40 sized edge profile and a variety of other interesting aircraft.
!!<a href="http://www.fmadirect.com"> FMA </a>
FMA showed their exciting new copilot-failsafe-8ch-FM-receiver-in-one, the FS8. Impressive new technology to help ensure success for the new pilot! (Sorry, photo was too bad to show.) Look for a multipart review of this exciting new technology across RC Power, E Zone, and LiftZone in the near future!
!!<a href="http://glowire.com"> Glowire Electroluminescent Lighting</a>
@906687:Glowire had the most unique booth -- an EZ-up with enclosed sides to show off the bright neon products. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
!!<a href="http://www.carlgoldbergproducts.com">Goldberg!</a>
I have to start with a big thank you to Goldberg for donating the 80+" Giant Scale <a href="http://www.carlgoldbergproducts.com/decathlonARF.htm">Super Decathlon ARF</a> shown above as one of the first prizes for our new <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=215657">RCGroups promotion</a>!
@906688:Goldberg had a broad range of models in their booth. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
@906689:The 30% ultimate ARF from Goldberg was definitely worth visiting. This massive all-wood ARF beast sports a pair of 70.5" wings, a total area of 1692 sq in of area, 78" fuse length, weighing 20-22 lbs and requiring 9 servos.
@906690:The new Ex-Treme 540 ARF profile is based upon an Edge 540, spans 45", with an impressive 703 sq in of wing area, and just 4.5-5 lb flying weight, for a .32-46 2-stroke or .40-63 4-stroke. Note the airfoiled tail!!
!!<a href="http://www.greatplanes.com">Great Planes/Hobbico</a>
@906691:The Great Planes Little Toni ARF, Christen Eagle II ARF, DC3 electric ARF, Rapture kit, and more!
@906692:Another angle on the wall-o-planes, focusing on the show stopper for Great Planes -- the Super Stearman ARF! Who DOESN'T recognize THIS scale plane???
@906693:A better look at the exciting new Christian Eagle.
*GP's wall-o'-planes included:
*the new Little Toni ARF (63" span with fiberglass fuse);
*the Christen Eagle ARF (nearly 66" span bipe with fiberglass cowling; 16-18 lbs, 1.6-2.2 glow or 2-3.2 cu in gas, wood built up structure and scale moments)-- Review coming soon!;
*the 60" span Rapture 40 kit (review in process!);
*the Super Stearman ARF (71.5" span, built up structure, fiberglass cowl and fairings; look for a fuel review by Dick Pettit, coming soon!);
*The GP Sukhoi SU31 3D ARF Profile (40" span, requires brusless motor, look for a review coming soon in E Zone!)
*and many more.
@906694:Look out ARF world -- here comes Top Flite! Top Flite has long been known for impressive sport scale kits, including giant scale. Now they've added ARFs to the Top Flite lineup, starting with this massive beauty. This big baby sports the Big Beautiful Doll covering scheme in genuine MonoKote, and is 73" long, 84.5" span, 1245 sq in of wing, weighing 17-19 lbs and requiring a 34-46cc 2stroke glow or 40-70 gas engine. Due to ship in late May!
@906695:And Top Flite also returns to the world of control line -- ARF style. The classic flite streak returns in a .25-40 sized sport plane, 41.5" span, 398 area, 25 oz flying weight.
@906696:And another classic bird for the control line ARF lineup -- the Nobler.
@906697:The exciting new mid-line computer radio for Futaba, the 7C. See <a href="http://www.rcgroups.com/4405">RC Power</a> for a review of this great new radio!
@906698:Futaba's new CR2000 battery charger, including autocutoff with audio alert, peak detection, LCD display, cigarette-lighter adapter, and more.
!!<a href="http://www.quickworldwide.com">Helis & Hobbies International/Quick Worldwide</a>
@906699:HHI's booth was accented by a huge, highly mounted plasma display showing their varied products.
@906700:Quick demonstrated numerous impressive glow-powered helis, from the Quick 30, 50 and 60, @hhi_helis.jpg:to the Learner, Sport and Pro machines.
@906701:HHI's Giant Scale Planes division had literally a massive wall of ARF aircraft, including this 73" Mosquito, with fiberglass fuselage, 52.5" length, and a flying weight of 11-12 lbs.
@906702:The new Yak 54, in 72" span, also drew a lot of attention. With its fiberglass fuse and low price tag, this is an exciting new addition to the aerobatic scale arena.
!!<a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">Hitec/Multiplex</a>
The Hitec/Multiplex show booth was again the most spacious, comfortable, European, impressive looking booth at the show.
@906703:Hitec displayed all its new smaller products on a single board, directly behind the Multiplex electric aircraft lineup.
@906704:The 92 in oz HS6965MB servo.
@906705:The 119 in oz HS6975HB servo.
@906706:The 144 in oz HS6985MB servo.
@906707:The 153 in oz HS765HB servo.
@906708:The massive 153 in oz HS785HB sail winch servo.
@906709:The amazingly strong 200+ in oz HS5745MG servo.
@906710:Hitec's impressive servo display.
!!<a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">Hobby Lobby</a>
@906711:Hobby Lobby's booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
Hobby Lobby was a proud sponsor of many of the E-TOC pilots, including Chip Hyde(!), who did some impressive indoor aerobatics Friday night.
!!<a href="/articles/rcpowermag/2004/apr/toledo/www.horizonhobby.com">Horizon Hobby</a>
The Horizon Hobby booth was right next to RCGroups, and what a busy site it was all weekend! Horizon's site has a superb layout to walk the user through their products, from beginner park flyers through an amazing display of power with JR's digital servos for giant scale birds, and more. Even though some of this is e-powered equipment, because the booth flows so cleanly when viewed this way, I'm going to include some of the e-equipment as well.
@906712:Hangar 9's new trainer cord -- allowing JR master radios to work with Futaba and Hitec student radios for easier trainer support.
!!!Hobbyzone:
Park flyers for beginners, in a truly complete "all in one box" package
@906713:Hobbyzone's newest and largest addition...the Aerobird Xtreme. The largest, and most complex model in the Aerobird lineup.
@906714:The Xtreme spans over 4 1/2 feet and is a skill zone 3 "not for beginners" aircraft. Includes options for one-on-one combat and more! Watch for an E Zone review of a pair of these birds, including combat video, coming soon!
!!!Parkzone:
When you've outgrown Hobbyzone but still want "all in one package" park fliers...Horizon introduced the new parkzone lineup -- park flier backyard fun, but more complex, more aerobatic, a 'next step' for those outgrowing the hobbyzone lineup. Include multiple flight modes for growing into new skills, and still "all in one box" technology -- fully decal-ed and ready to go, complete with 27mhz radio system, chargers and all. Look for the SloV coming soon to join this interesting new group.
@906715:The ParkZone cub, the first of the "Charge and Fly" park flyers. Not meant for beginners. Span of 37", 26" long, 15 oz, with 3 proportional channels.
@906716:The ParkZone F27 Stryker -- fully aerobatic, 3-transmitter-selectable flight modes, flight assist -- all in a 37" span, 27" long, 21 oz package.
!!!E-flite: moving into more complex models
E-Flite is another new line in the Horizon family. The ascent adds a 54" polyhedral glider/park flier to Horizon's already extensive lineup. And the 2 foam profile ARFs add indoor 3D aerobatic birds already tested, setup, and complete, ready for your radio gear and to be in the air. Definitely an interesting new area for glow pilots who ALSO want to do some indoor 3D!
@906717:The E-Flite Ascent 54" span, 32" length, fiberglass fuselage park flyer/electric glider.
@906718:The Ultimate and Tribute 3D ARFs wrap up the new E-flite lineup with awesome indoor profile ARF 3D aerobats. At 28" and 37" spans respectively, and 9 oz weights each, these new birds are amazing.
!!!Seagull Models: A budget minded alternative for .40-.90 sized sport models
@906719:The new Seagull line showed 6 new models, including the Harrier 3D .90. This 60.5" span model weighs 7-8 lbs and requires a .61-1.0 2stroke or .90-1.20 4stroke for great aerobatic fun.
!!!Hangar 9:When you're looking for quality and performance
@906720:The new Twist ARF sports a "square" 48" wingspan and length, and offers fun performance on 40-58 2strokes or 50-72 4strokes.
@906721:The amazingly popular funtana gets a 90 sized big brother!
Hangar 9 offers a huge range of models, with the Twist ARF being just one of many in the new line up that we hope to see as e-conversions here on E Zone!
@906722:And when you've grown up into the big time, Horizon offers amazing giant scale aerobatic arfs, including the <a href="http://horizon.hobbyshopnow.com/ProdInfo/PagesAUX/1320-ART.asp?pg=5">9.5" wingspan 33% Edge 540</a>. Weighing 22-24 lbs, the recommended power is a Zenoah GT80 and sports a 2-piece wing for easy transport.
!!! JR radio systems:
Radios from when you've outgrown "all in a box" models to when you're flying world level models of any type.
@906723:JR's most impressive demonstration of digital servo power...
@906724:four servos together lifting more than 640 oz of weight!
@906725:At last, hands-on "here's how you do that" help right at a trade show.
JR had their help desk manned all weekend with experienced modelers, helping customers explore new realms with their radios, find the right radio for their needs, and more. And a HUGE ad promoted the new JR 6102 computer radio with graphical display as the backdrop.
!!!Evolution Engines: A budget-minded "no fuss" sport engine line
This engine line focuses on easy performance, with no tuning hassles, right from the package, and Toledo included a display of the new .36NT (sorry, no photo.)
!!!Saito Engines:When only top quality 4-strokes will do
@906726:Saito's latest release is the .82 -- the power of an .82 in the case of a .72! Offered in classic and, of course, Saito's instantly recognizable "GK" version with gold accents.
!!!Revolution Helicopter Support
@906727:With a superb line of JR helicopters available, Horizon also stocks the Revolution parts lineup for repairs, upgrades, hop-ups, and all out heli fun...
@906728:all with a reasonable price tag.
!!Wendell Hostettler Plans
@906729:Wendell Hostettlers new 26.6% Stinson -- 108" span, 80 1/3" length, 14-15 lbs, and capable of glow power, or, ... powered by HACKER50.
@906730:The plans for the big Stinson.
!!<a href="http://www.jethangar.com">Jet Hangar Hobbies Jets</a>
Jet Hangar Hobbies, long known in the glow- and gas- and then turbine-DF community, also brought 2 exciting new EDFs to the market at Toledo. See the E Zone coverage for details.
@906731:JHH displayed an impressive turbine setup, the Wren MW54 Turbo-Prop, making 44 lbs of thrust spinning an 18x6 3-blade, with a thermal fluid coupling free turbine and gear box design.
@906732:The turbine F4D skyray is 1/9th scale, 61" long, and sports a 46" wingspan. It is designed for an MW54 turbine or 5" ducted fan, and this kit is still in development for some time to come.
@906733:Here owner Larry Wolf poses with a finished skyray and a fuselage.
!!<a href="http://www.lanierrc.com">Lanier</a>
@906734:The new Razor 3D all wood ARF spans 52" and weighs just 4.5-5 lbs -- ideal for an electric conversion for outdoor 3D fun!
@906735:A nice idea -- this ARF is available in 4 different trim schemes.
@906736:The new combat kit - Ripper -- spans 60.5" and weighs 2.25-2.75 lbs. Can you say combat fun?
Lanier always has a fun and exciting ARF lineup -- from warbirds to giant scale aerobats, and everything in between. And their new "21st Century ARF" model lineup combines Lanier pricing with really nice quality birds.
!!<a href="http://www.matneymodels.com">Matney Models</a>
@906737:Matney models specializes in fiberglass products. (Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.)
Matney offers high quality fiberglass airplane kits for electric ducted fan, electric pylon racing, as well as for AMA QM40 and Q-500 class pylon racing, scale aerobatics, and contest winning sail planes.
!!<a href="http://www.midwestproducts.com">Midwest</a>
@906738:This flexible airplane/boat/car and more stand displayed the PT109 nicely!
Midwest carries a broad range of glow product, including distributing a new line, Falcon Trading ARFs. Unfortunately, the memory chip I used to take photos in the Midwest/Falcon Trading booth failed, and the photos were lost. :-( So, photos from the manufacturers site are used here instead.
@906739:Falcon is offering this sharp looking new Cessna 177 ARF for .60 2stroke or .91 4stroke engines, sporting corrugated ailerons and airfoil tail surfaces.
Falcon also sported several plastic-fuse ARFs specificall intended for float flying...fun stuff! And Midwest continues to demonstrate a really nice line of wood kits to build for everything from aerobatics to military scale with a sharp messerschmitt .40.
!!<a href="http://www.miniatureaircraftusa.com">Miniature Aircraft/XCell</a>
@906740:Miniature now offering a different option...gasoline power!
@906741:This was too big to leave out of even the glow article....this exciting new .90 sized performance bird, designed specifically for e-power.
@906742:A huge array of new hop ups were displayed for the
@906743:tempest and other miniature birds.
!!<a href="http://www.mrc.com">MRC/Model Rectifier Corporation</a>
@906744:Their new Reflex simulator also drew lots of attention, with large plasma screens for display. Photo courtesy of Pat Mattes.
@906745:The Hirobo heli display was impressive, but overshadowed by the huge plasma screens for Reflex.
MRC had a huge range of items, from a repeat showing of their adorable Hirobo XRB corded heli, to their full range of gas helicopters as well.
!!<a href="/articles/rcpowermag/2004/apr/toledo/www.nikitisaircraft.com">Nikitis</a>
@906746:Nikitis offers everything from CNC cut electric kits seen here to an 80" YAK 54 ARF. Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
!!<a href="http://www.pacepaintbooths.com">Pace Paint PeaceKeeper</a>
@906747:The sign says it all.
@906748:Interesting idea! Great for my allergies, no doubt!
!!<a href="http://www.perfectpilots.com"> Perfect Pilots</a>
@906749:These pilots, painted and unpainted, were nothing short of astounding.
!!<a href="http://www.rchelisplus.com">RC Helis Plus</a>
@906750:Len Sabato's new company showed an impressive lineup of items.
@906751:The hoverfly prelude boasts great indoor performance, safety, factory test-flown, and no batteries needed!
!!Scande Research (couldn't find a website)
@906752:The Scande Research Demon flying wing has been around a lonnnng time, and it is shown here with its larger brother, the Super Demon.
!!<a href="http://www.shulmanaviation.com">Shulman Aviation</a>
@906753:The Shulman booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
@906754:Shulman displayed heavy duty silicone servo leads for those giant scale high load projects.
@906755:Jason Shulman's 3D monster -- Exhila!
@906756:The Exhila ARF comes in 2 colors, has a 35" wingspan, weighs 18-22 oz, and flies well on a speed 400 or better on brushless.
!!<a href="http://www.sigmfg.com">Sig</a>
@906757:Unfortunately, some battery problems resulted in my losing the photos taken at the Sig booth. Sig always has a broad range of fun items in their booth, including the new Nitro Rascal -- watch for a review here on RC Power, coming soon!
!!<a href="http://srbatteries.com">SR Batteries</a>
@906758:Photo courtesy of Steve Horney.
SR Batteries was showing an exciting new electric/gas project -- a 100" Eindecker! (Review, powered both gas and electric, coming soon to RCPower and E Zone!) SR is obviously excited about this new project, and lots of photos are available here:
http://srbatteries.com/new/eindecker.htm
!!<a href="http://www.stevensaero.com">Stevens AeroModel</a>
@906759:The Stevens Aero cap in bones in-front of their booth signage.
@906760:Finally available, the Stevens Aero larger park flying cap has arrived and is now available to order! With a 55" span, 50" length, and weighing 43-56 oz ready to fly, this cap can do it all, and look great to boot! While designed for electric, this adorable little kit could easily be retrofitted to glow. (Did I just say that? Retrofitted *TO* glow?)
!!<a href="http://www.taurus-engines.net">Taurus Engines</a>
@906761:The Taurus 6.6 inline twin. COOL!
!!<a href="http://www.zplanes.com">Z Planes</a>
@906762:The Z Planes booth, courtesy of Steve Horney.
!COMPETITION AIRPLANES
@906763:LET THE AWARDS BEGIN! Weak Signals always have an amazing set of awards for their contestants, and put on a superb presentation.
Be sure to visit the E Zone coverage to see some of the electric models in this year's competition. For a full listing of all winners, please visit the <a href="http://toledoshow.com/winnersa.html">Weak Signals Show Coverage Website.</a>
@906764:Just some of the prizes for the competitors!
@906765:Thousands of dollars were raised with the scholarship raffle. Look at those prizes!
@906766:Jason Noll's Extra took first in aerobatic aircraft.
@906767:Even the signage for this Carden 330 was impressive!
@906768:Faye Stilley's first place covering class winner, the Curtiss DareDevil!
@906769:This Drambuie On Ice Speedboat won first place, and was a real beauty!
@906770:Tom Pierce's Dauntless also won first place in military sport plane.
@906771:Statistics for the Best Of Show Winner, Tom Pierce's Dauntless.
@906772:Dave Platt's impressive Vought Kingfisher took 2nd in designer scale.
@dave_plattskingfisherstats.jpg:Stats for Dave Platt's Kingfisher.
@906773:This XV15 Osprey was astounding!
@906774:Stats and details on the Osprey.
!E-TOC
E-TOC coverage to follow in a separate article in <a href=http://www.ezonemag.com">E Zone</a>.