I'm getting very frustrated with my GP Extra .40. I can't get it to fly straight precision aerobatics. I have never really got into a groove with this plane. Yes, I've tried all the precision trimming techniques. Much better than stock but still not the precision that I want.

I'm thinking of going to a basic pattern plane like a Bridi Escape. I'm wondering, though, if I should just go for the Big Dirty Birdy 2+2. I have a Webra 1.20 that would probably be marginal for a 2 meter job.

Any thoughts? Are there other pattern kits in the .60-.90 range that cost less than $150? I like the seduction series, but it's just over my $$$ pain threshold.

Hppy flying

If you want to fly the maneuvers in the pattern schedules - that is "precision flying," then a pattern plane is probably for you. The Extra lends itself to "hot dogging" more than a pattern plane would. If you're interested in the Bridi airplanes, go to bridiradiocontrol.com - I think he has the best pricing around. Also, if you're going from a .40 size plane, I'd suggest going to a .60 size rather than a 1.20 size. It'll cost less to build, less to repair, less to fly, and unless you already have a very large vehicle, less to transport around. By the way, the Great Escape is said to be the best of the Bridi .60 airplanes. FYI................

Not an insult, but have you properly trimmed your Extra.
There are two trim charts under our aerobatics section.
Try this and then see how she flys.

You can get the Seduction Freestyle shipped to your doorstep for $150 from Singapore Hobbies.

If you can still find one the GP Ultrasport is the best flying entry-level pattern plane I've ever flown, they've stopped making it, but there are still a few around. Also the GP Tracer is a good one.

Yes, I've used the trimming charts that are on the various pattern and aerobatic web pages. That process took my plane from horrible to ok. I also had a well respected former IMAC pilot and perfectionist builder look at my plane. He said it "looked" straight as an arrow. The trimming I did was to move the C.G. back (was pulling out of a dive and dropping severely when inverted) and add right thrust (was pulling left during upward vertical line) and ballance latterally (1/2 oz to left tip). My problem now is that it just doesn't track or groove very well. Unless the wind is dead calm, I can barely do a good inside loop and I have little confidence in doing outside loops and inverted push-out. I could probably spend the next few years trying to figure it out, but is it really worth it?

Seduction at my door for $150? I'm interested. Is it considered a precision or 3D type airplane? I'll check their web page.

It's actually considered Precision AND 3d. It's a new breed of plane....it looks like a pattern, but has the control surfaces of a 3d. The best of both worlds. It's not a huge plane though.....they recommend a YS .63 4 stroke.

Pictures are here:

http://www20.tok2.com/home/rc/data2/2001-5-6/1.htm

I emailed Singapore Hobbies and ask about the price of the Seduction Freestyle kit and got this response:

I emailed back:
I got this response:

So what am I missing????

Marcus

I think you a reading that as $266.20 in singapore dollars

Hubb

Yes, notice the S in front.......converted, that's $151.25 USD and shipping included

I understand, thanks pointing me to the S infront of the amount. Not too bad a price I'd say. I suppose I'll have to break down soon and order one.

Marcus

Several fliers starting in pattern in the NJ area have had great success w/ the following combination:

Bridi Kaos (Actually a Sun-Fli V) - $70.00 from bridiradiocontrol.com
Taildragger fixed gear
OS .91 FX engine - same size / weight as a .61
set up as standard w/ dual aileron servos.

Plane comes in at 6 or 6-1/2 lbs, flies great - grooves, and works fine for Sportsman or Intermediate.

Simple, robust, and doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

Rick

The SEduction is a fantastic kit.

I am currently working on the Fun Fly .

The Free Style & One both are also great .

Cheers.

Arjun