ORIGINAL: jcoop65
Ok so im setting up a 50cc aerobatic mx2 and would like some input and suggestions on D/R and expo settings. First off im using a DX 8, it has three rate positions on all the control surfaces, I'd like to stick to just one switch for all of my rate variables. In doing so I'm most comfortable with using the f mode switch, small switch on the left. What would be the best settings for the different rates? I've used expo but am not sure what is a good starting point with different rates.
On the lower rates I would want good response with easy smooth controllability. Also with the lower rates I want enough control to be able to recover if need be.
THANKS John
An open ended question without any one answer fits all. The DX 8 I know nothing about but I can tell you how I set up my latest plane. I set up high and low rates all on one switch this time. Sounds like what you want to do. I know my normal flying rates are about 12 degrees on aileron and elevator and all I can get out of my rudder. I never set rates on my rudder. I then set my high rate up to about 28 degrees for super stunts. 28 is a pretty good point for 3-D starting rates. I'm not a 3-D pilot but this plane will be able to fly 3-D so I set the rates for it.
Expo is another one of those things that is used to suit the pilot. I like my planes a bit docile until I want to start banging the sticks so I set up with about 45% and add or subtract during my trim flying. Depends on the plane and how touchy it is.
I used to build planes for a friend that never used expo at all and he isn't the only one I know that feels the same way.
Rates and expo is something you have to decide on yourself but a good starting point for normal flying is about 10 or 12 degrees. Once you have the plane set up for normal flight you can go nuts fooling with the control inputs. It's a lot of fun.
