AV8TOR suggested that this $70.00 Ryobi is closer in power to a 120 rather than a 160 two stroke. After checking some RPM readings in the glow engines forum, I agree. So, lets compare it to an OS 120AX:
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...p?&I=LXLGJ0&P=
The OS 120AX with muffler (no 90* adapter) weighs 1.8 lbs. This is 2.5 lb. less that the 4.3 lb. Ryobi.
Two OS 120AX engines at 3.6 lb. still weigh less than the 4.3 lb. Ryobi. A DA 50 at 3.1 lb. weighs less than this Ryobi. This Ryobi has a terrible power-to-weight ratio, and that means that any aircraft that you can buy today, ARFs mostly, will provide a boring flying experience. I just think this hobby should be fun, and that R/C aircraft should be fun and exciting to fly. This Ryobi certainly isn't my idea of fun and exciting.
I agree that this kit provides rock-bottom pricing for an engine, but because of its poor performance, it is my contention that this engine,
as is, represents a lousy investment.
Could this engine be a candidate for gas/glow operation? I would think that with a minimal investment in time and money, engine weight would be reduced while power would be increased due to glow fuel content. Just a thought.
Bruce