Stupid beginner question
 

So I'm looking closely at a 2nd plane. I fly an electric Hobbico SkyFly RTF and I think I've mastered it. Now I want something a little more powerful, with a better range and if possible the same or longer flight times. First off, what are the advantages of a gas powered plane over an electric one? I just saw a review for this Hobbico SuperStar EP Select RTF w/ Ailerons and it looked awesome. I thought to get power like that I had to move up to gas powered?? After the stock review he did a motor and battery upgrade and that was really spectacular.

Any suggestions? Is gas the way to go? Is electric good enough? With which one can I get the longest flight times with? thanks all!

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

Gas is fun and so is EP. EP can be really powerful too and its not expensive when you are flying planes of 40" or less. Gas is nice as the planes are usually bigger and hence its more stable. For value for money its glow as EP batteries are still expensive.

Nice EP planes to enjoy:

EF Extra 300
Hot Point
Hyperion CAP

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

here's a terminology tip.
gas is gasoline like the kind ya get from chevron mostly 2 stroke for larger planes.
glow is the fuel used for most med. sized fuel powered airplanes uses a glow plug and is alcohol,castor/synthetic oil,and nitro methane.
there are no stupid beginner questions, only questions not asked.

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

Hellas,
Depends on what you want, if your gonna fly bigger stuff, gas or glow is the way to go. Some guys like ele and some like gas whatever. I do think that's funny however in some forums that question has almost lead to civil war. I will let you know that I am a gas/glo guy, just so you know. Check it all out, think about where you want to be in the future and it should become clear.
If your anything like me (as a little kid, face pushed up to the chain link in amazement at the big ones!!!) your gonna be a gasser, the funny thing is the best way into gas is through glow. I know, dosen't make any sence, it will...

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

I've flown both, the downside of glow is many places won't let you fly because of the noise. I think EP will grow into something affordable and quiet. I fly at State Parks and they will make you stop if campoers complain, and they do when you crank up a Glo or Gas model.
Lee

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

there's really no limit to electric power all the way up to 33% but it will cost you

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

I think elec is only a matter of what you are really willing to invest both mooney and spare time, I for example dont have a lot of time to spare and I find it easier for me to take out my elec skyfly wherever I am just hook up the batt fly for 30 minutes~ 1 hour and go home to my wife and kid, although I have never flown any other type, I understood that preparations are needed before lying and after flying etc...

RE: Stupid beginner question
 

Just came back from our local AMA field. I was the only electric flier out of 3. The others burned almost $50.00 worth of fuel in their twin engine large scale Cessna's. I figured my hour of flying cost me about 10 cents worth of electricity. If fuel continues to increase in cost I can see many fliers changing to electric. I can charge my planes on solar panels 2-- 48 watt panels on my motorhome or a portable 18 watt unit that rolls up.
Lee