Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Helicopters / August 2004

Don't expect to be able to just go out there and 'have at it', as such, but
you'll certainly have a lot more success than trying to learn with the
actual model.

The actual model will invariably behave differently to the sim, depending on
engine tune, mechanical 'play' in the model, weather conditions on the day
etc etc.  For eg, even though I've got my heli programmed in the sim to be
identical to my actual model, the sim doesn't take into account the fact
that there is some play in the mechanics of my heli.  Consequently, my
actual model behaves quite differently inverted to what the sim would have
me believe should be happening.  It requires much more correction to hold an
inverted hover than the sim does.

Get someone to check the heli over for you and leave the training balls on
for the first flight.

MrBonk
www.mrbonk.com

With the confidence inspiring Rotopod (or similar training "wheels")
attached, you should have little trouble getting into your first hover for
real.  However, if you're like me, things will start to get a little scary
as you do hovers with the heli 90 degrees left and right from tail-on.  I
left the Rotopod on for about 25 flights until I could do gentle figure-8s.
By my estimates the Rotopod saved me from at least 3 crashes where the heli
would start to get away from me in a hover and I'd chop the throttle in a
panic and it would drop like a rock.

But I've also met people who have removed their training wheels within just
a few flights.  Just remember, there's no rush to get rid of the training
wheels.

Jim