I thought it might be a good idea to split this conversation off to its own topic as it could be available to other groups wanting to do something similar.
One model mentioned was the Spin:
For now I would suggest that all of the Blejzyk models should be considered unavailable due to supply issues.
A composite option would be the X-ray:
This is a very nice flying model and has proven to be a very robust model. The prototype survived mid airs, hitting a tree, and then crashing down out of the tree. Finally died in a major midair at Sunset that delaminated the wing. This plane offers all of the features folks are looking for, except the super low price. It would be a great trainer, it is very durable, and it responds well to everything you might want to try. We could do a special fiberglass layup and offer a little better price point for racers. The challenge may be getting enough to meet demand. This manufacturer currently is having a hard time keeping us supplied in models.
And then there is something like the Magnus that is a very nice 60" model. Several of the pilots may already have one of these:
This is an excellent choice and great price for the performance, but same challenge as the X-ray. May be more money than people want to spend, and availability has been spotty.
That more or less covers some of the lower cost already designed options that I currently stock.
Now we do have some time to push out a new design, or look at other options like an ODR (One Design Racer) compliant design. Soon you will be seeing some new EPP options from Aloft. We can easily focus in on something that might make a good racer. But I'm not sure an EPP frame really makes a good training vehicle for more advanced models. The weight distribution and challenges of the EPP wings kind of limit them IMHO for being what I'll say is an "advanced" model. But durable!! Heck yes. There are many good ODR designs out there already.
I am aware of at least one interesting composite model in the works that might be a good potential, but think the Magnus would be a better price point.
The Trix design might have some potential, for prototyping it is a mix of wood fuselage and printed wing, but the wing is printed for a little more durability than the current Slingshot. This will eventually be an EPS foam core wing with wood sheeting. For racing I'd suggest the speed wing with flaps and ailerons, this has not yet been shown. As a benefit I can offer a good price point since this is a model we manufacture at Aloft.
Curious what models you all think might fit the bill?
One model mentioned was the Spin:
For now I would suggest that all of the Blejzyk models should be considered unavailable due to supply issues.
A composite option would be the X-ray:
This is a very nice flying model and has proven to be a very robust model. The prototype survived mid airs, hitting a tree, and then crashing down out of the tree. Finally died in a major midair at Sunset that delaminated the wing. This plane offers all of the features folks are looking for, except the super low price. It would be a great trainer, it is very durable, and it responds well to everything you might want to try. We could do a special fiberglass layup and offer a little better price point for racers. The challenge may be getting enough to meet demand. This manufacturer currently is having a hard time keeping us supplied in models.
And then there is something like the Magnus that is a very nice 60" model. Several of the pilots may already have one of these:
This is an excellent choice and great price for the performance, but same challenge as the X-ray. May be more money than people want to spend, and availability has been spotty.
That more or less covers some of the lower cost already designed options that I currently stock.
Now we do have some time to push out a new design, or look at other options like an ODR (One Design Racer) compliant design. Soon you will be seeing some new EPP options from Aloft. We can easily focus in on something that might make a good racer. But I'm not sure an EPP frame really makes a good training vehicle for more advanced models. The weight distribution and challenges of the EPP wings kind of limit them IMHO for being what I'll say is an "advanced" model. But durable!! Heck yes. There are many good ODR designs out there already.
I am aware of at least one interesting composite model in the works that might be a good potential, but think the Magnus would be a better price point.
The Trix design might have some potential, for prototyping it is a mix of wood fuselage and printed wing, but the wing is printed for a little more durability than the current Slingshot. This will eventually be an EPS foam core wing with wood sheeting. For racing I'd suggest the speed wing with flaps and ailerons, this has not yet been shown. As a benefit I can offer a good price point since this is a model we manufacture at Aloft.
Curious what models you all think might fit the bill?
