50CC REVOLVER!!
#26
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
I have been monitoring comments and questions on the new 55cc Revolver. Much of this conversation had been taking place on the .60 Revolver site so I thought it may be helpful to post information here as well After reading much speculation I thought I would chime in and set a few of the facts straight for you. First of all this plane had the same design goals as the other Revolvers. Make a quick build, good flying airplane and do all you can to keep the price affordable. As with the other Revolvers I think we hit that with this airplane. With a street price of $429.99 I think we have given you a solid value for your money. The kit has a number of impressive features for the money. Carbon fiber wing tube, invisible cowl mounting method (no unsightly screw heads on the outside of the cowl), pre-installed cockpit, pre-installed pilot, fiberglass cowl, fiberglass wheel pants, aluminum landing gear, removable stabs for easy transportation, Robart type pinned hinges pre-installed on all control surfaces except the rudder and an aluminum spinner. The airplane was designed to be a sport aerobatic airplane, not a 3D airplane. With a DLE 55 the airplane does very nice snaps, knife-edge, lomcevaks, upright and inverted spins, etc. The plane is also very fast! We clocked the prototype with a stock DLE 55 and an APC 20x12 with a radar gun and an onboard GPS and had speeds of 125 -132 mph. This engine and prop combination pulls the airplane vertical nearly indefinitely. If you intend to bump up all of the throws and try to use it as a 3D airplane you will find that with the DLE 55 you can hover but pulling straight out of the hover is a bit slower than you might want. Landing the airplane is a breeze. Let me directly address some of the comment I have read on line.
The weight and wing loading: The stated weight of the airplane is real. Our prototypes were less than 20lbs until we set one up on electric. That did bump the weight up but it had no perceptible effect on the performance. The guys who saw the electric conversion at the Watts Over Owatonna electric event and the NEAT Fair will tell you that it was very impressive! Forget about wing loading numbers. This airplane fly’s very light on the wing. It really feels like a much lighter airplane than it is. The stall characteristics are very gentle
Servos: Someone posted that the Futaba 3305 servos would be insufficient. That is not true. This metal geared, 99 oz/in servo is more than adequate. We used it for all of our testing with no problems. For those of you who wish to spend more money on better grade servo, great! At $32.99 each, those servos are very affordable.
Color Scheme: Some of you thought the color scheme looked too much like the .40 size. Since all three sizes are the same airplane family we try to keep the same basic look across the line. This one with the orange accent looks quite nice, better than the photos probably represent.
Larger engines rear exhaust and pipes: We did all of our testing on the DLE 55. As with any airplane if you decide to overpower it throttle management is important. There is no pipe tunnel and though you might be able to fit a tunnel inside you will have to be careful not to compromise the landing gear structure.
The experienced gasser will love this airplane. The new guy stepping into gas for the first time should strongly consider this model. It requires no special equipment to fly, it is easy to fly, easy to see and is no more complicated than any other four channel model. With the removable wings and stabs, transportation should not be much of a problem.
I am attaching some pictures I took to show you the packaging since some of you were curious about this. These airplanes are expected to be here next week. We really think that this size airplane, at this price and with the reputation of the other Revolvers will sell out pretty quick. If you’re a Revolver guy you might want to get that order placed soon.
I hope this is helpful!
Jim
The weight and wing loading: The stated weight of the airplane is real. Our prototypes were less than 20lbs until we set one up on electric. That did bump the weight up but it had no perceptible effect on the performance. The guys who saw the electric conversion at the Watts Over Owatonna electric event and the NEAT Fair will tell you that it was very impressive! Forget about wing loading numbers. This airplane fly’s very light on the wing. It really feels like a much lighter airplane than it is. The stall characteristics are very gentle
Servos: Someone posted that the Futaba 3305 servos would be insufficient. That is not true. This metal geared, 99 oz/in servo is more than adequate. We used it for all of our testing with no problems. For those of you who wish to spend more money on better grade servo, great! At $32.99 each, those servos are very affordable.
Color Scheme: Some of you thought the color scheme looked too much like the .40 size. Since all three sizes are the same airplane family we try to keep the same basic look across the line. This one with the orange accent looks quite nice, better than the photos probably represent.
Larger engines rear exhaust and pipes: We did all of our testing on the DLE 55. As with any airplane if you decide to overpower it throttle management is important. There is no pipe tunnel and though you might be able to fit a tunnel inside you will have to be careful not to compromise the landing gear structure.
The experienced gasser will love this airplane. The new guy stepping into gas for the first time should strongly consider this model. It requires no special equipment to fly, it is easy to fly, easy to see and is no more complicated than any other four channel model. With the removable wings and stabs, transportation should not be much of a problem.
I am attaching some pictures I took to show you the packaging since some of you were curious about this. These airplanes are expected to be here next week. We really think that this size airplane, at this price and with the reputation of the other Revolvers will sell out pretty quick. If you’re a Revolver guy you might want to get that order placed soon.
I hope this is helpful!
Jim
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
The web site is up on Great Planes. The video should be posted later today.
http://greatplanes.com/airplanes/gpma1425.html
http://greatplanes.com/airplanes/gpma1425.html
#31
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: Mr67Stang
Guess I wont bother replacing that Revolver 70 I dorked in.
Guess I wont bother replacing that Revolver 70 I dorked in.
Even though I already have a Revolver 70, running a Saito .91 in it, I just ordered another Revolver 70 of which I do plan on installing my DLE-20. I have read and heard some great reports on this combo.
BUT !! At this moment I am thinking that the new Rovolver 50 cc will be my next one.
#34
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: ahicks
Welcome to the crowd Granpooba! If you're left scratching your head on that build, don't be shy!
Welcome to the crowd Granpooba! If you're left scratching your head on that build, don't be shy!
#35
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
#36
RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: wjcalhoun
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
#37
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: Mr67Stang
I'm thinking the new DLE-55 RA might be the ticket. The DA-60 is just to much money for this plane and the 55-RA peeks it's power out 1000 RPM higher than the standard DLE-55. This will help with speed aplications.
ORIGINAL: wjcalhoun
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
#38
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: Granpooba
Have been having the same considerations about the DLE-55's. Am thinking about the 55-RA also. Did not know that the 55-RA peeks its power out @ 1,000 higher RPM than the standard. That seems like a lot more RPM to me for basically the same engine, unless the data is with a tuned pipe on the RA . Do you know why the higher RPM peek ?
ORIGINAL: Mr67Stang
I'm thinking the new DLE-55 RA might be the ticket. The DA-60 is just to much money for this plane and the 55-RA peeks it's power out 1000 RPM higher than the standard DLE-55. This will help with speed aplications.
ORIGINAL: wjcalhoun
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
Granpooba
I pulled the trigger on the 50cc R90 myself. Was looking to equip her with a ZDZ90, but the performance data from jimkim (the developer) led me to choose a standard DLE55. The DLE60 is sweet, but has no more oomph than the 55.
Maybe we can compare notes on our builds.
#39
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
I think the RA is a good option also; the extra $50 is offset by the included pitts muffler, which would be another $90 with the standard DLE. Not clear to me whether the RA develops an additional 100 rpm with same prop, fuel, etc, but the difference is not really consequential.
#40
RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
From The TH web site:
DLE-55RA "Output: 5.5 hp @ 8,500 RPM"
DLE-55 "Output Power: 5.5 HP at 7,500 RPM"
Both have the same power potential but the higher band of the RA model will allow for more speed. The trade off will be less bottom end torque for a slower spool up into the power band. As far as why? It has to do with the different porting of the cylinder. Changing the porting on a 2 stroke is much like changing the cam and valve size in a push rod engine. The new design allows for a higher RPM peek but obviously gained no "extra" overall power in this case. Anything more than that would just be guessing so I will wait fore a DLE designer to chime in to explain.
DLE-55RA "Output: 5.5 hp @ 8,500 RPM"
DLE-55 "Output Power: 5.5 HP at 7,500 RPM"
Both have the same power potential but the higher band of the RA model will allow for more speed. The trade off will be less bottom end torque for a slower spool up into the power band. As far as why? It has to do with the different porting of the cylinder. Changing the porting on a 2 stroke is much like changing the cam and valve size in a push rod engine. The new design allows for a higher RPM peek but obviously gained no "extra" overall power in this case. Anything more than that would just be guessing so I will wait fore a DLE designer to chime in to explain.
#41
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: Mr67Stang
From The TH web site:
DLE-55RA ''Output: 5.5 hp @ 8,500 RPM''
DLE-55 ''Output Power: 5.5 HP at 7,500 RPM''
Both have the same power potential but the higher band of the RA model will allow for more speed. The trade off will be less bottom end torque for a slower spool up into the power band. As far as why? It has to do with the different porting of the cylinder. Changing the porting on a 2 stroke is much like changing the cam and valve size in a push rod engine. The new design allows for a higher RPM peek but obviously gained no ''extra'' overall power in this case. Anything more than that would just be guessing so I will wait fore a DLE designer to chime in to explain.
From The TH web site:
DLE-55RA ''Output: 5.5 hp @ 8,500 RPM''
DLE-55 ''Output Power: 5.5 HP at 7,500 RPM''
Both have the same power potential but the higher band of the RA model will allow for more speed. The trade off will be less bottom end torque for a slower spool up into the power band. As far as why? It has to do with the different porting of the cylinder. Changing the porting on a 2 stroke is much like changing the cam and valve size in a push rod engine. The new design allows for a higher RPM peek but obviously gained no ''extra'' overall power in this case. Anything more than that would just be guessing so I will wait fore a DLE designer to chime in to explain.
DLE takes 50cc performance to a new level with the rear exhaust DLE-55RA. Everything about this engine screams performance, from the piston skirt - designed to be lightweight for quick throttle response and tons of power - to the rear exhaust that lets you easily install a tuned pipe in your aircraft. The 55RA provides 100 more rpm than the standard DLE-55. It includes engines standoffs, electronic ignition, spark plug and Pitts style muffler.
Specifications:
Stock Number: DLEG0055
Displacement: 55.6 cc (3.392 cu in)
Bore: 1.77 in (45 mm)
Stroke: 1.38 X in (35 mm)
Weight: 3.5 lb (1.59 kg)
RPM Range: 1,350-8,500
Output: 5.5 hp @ 7,500 rpm
This also stated a RPM range up to 8,500 for the standard DLE 55.
Now what is it guys, 100 or 1,000 ?
I think we are actually talking 6 of one and half dozen of the other.
#42
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
There have been quite a few questions/comments on the new 55R having a higher powerband, based on the printed specs from Tower. I too am guessing that's a mis-print, and that DLE's own info of 100 more rpm than the original 55 is more accurate. Wouldn't be the first time Tower(and others) had a misprint on specs...besides, my DLE 55 and most I've ever seen and heard of like spinning low 7k's on a good 22x8 or 23x8 prop[8D]
#43
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
My well-broken-in 55 turns a Xoar 23x8 at about 6800 in thick sea level air. Will be interesting to see the performance change, if any, with the lighter piston and altered porting in the 55RA.
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
Didn't the designer say he achieved 125 MPH with a stock DLE 55? Don't have any experience with Desert Aircraft, but the DA 60 may be a good choice. A fellow at our field has the new 55R and confirmed a 100 RPM increase over the 55 side muffler.
#46
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: Slow and Steady
Didn't the designer say he achieved 125 MPH with a stock DLE 55? Don't have any experience with Desert Aircraft, but the DA 60 may be a good choice. A fellow at our field has the new 55R and confirmed a 100 RPM increase over the 55 side muffler.
Didn't the designer say he achieved 125 MPH with a stock DLE 55? Don't have any experience with Desert Aircraft, but the DA 60 may be a good choice. A fellow at our field has the new 55R and confirmed a 100 RPM increase over the 55 side muffler.
#47
RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
Why so over weight??????????? It would be nice if GP could start getting their bigger planes in the weight range of the other more popular brands. With only 1303sq's and an estimated weight of close to 20lbs. they could use a major diet!
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
ORIGINAL: jimkim
The web site is up on Great Planes. The video should be posted later today.
http://greatplanes.com/airplanes/gpma1425.html
The web site is up on Great Planes. The video should be posted later today.
http://greatplanes.com/airplanes/gpma1425.html
Doug
#49
Senior Member
RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
jimkim;
Thank you so very much for your post!!! The info help me make my mind up!! I have and love the two Revolver and this one will be the icing on the cake!! On top of that, what a sweet price!!!!
Thanks again!!
Sonny
aka
jet22b
Thank you so very much for your post!!! The info help me make my mind up!! I have and love the two Revolver and this one will be the icing on the cake!! On top of that, what a sweet price!!!!
Thanks again!!
Sonny
aka
jet22b
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RE: 50CC REVOLVER!!
I like the design of the new Rev 90, though maybe I can see adding a strip or two on. I do love the Rev 59 design, too. Has anyone out there pulled the trigger on this beast yet?
Airraptor - love that you're already thinking of a DLE 111!
Airraptor - love that you're already thinking of a DLE 111!