Which electric heli?

[darren_uk]

I read this thread with interest: Buying an electric helicopter is something I'm seriously considering, simply because I currently don't have a car so can't take the Shuttle anywhere, and to take an electric helicopter to the local park would be simple.

Too much choice though, and I've not found enough opinions yet.

I noticed the Piccolo (one of the models) came with a simulator and a collective pitch built in, and if I recall correctly, battery life was starting to look attractive.

From my limited research I found the following:

http://www.modelhelicopters.co.uk explained the following options:
3 indoor models:
- Ikarus Piccolo
- MS Hornet
- Snelflight Hoverfly
5 Outdoor models:
- Ikarus Eco
- Kalt Whisper Sport
- JR Voyager E
- Kyosho Concept EP-SR
- Robbe Mosquito Sonic

Piccolo Fun:
- Kit
- Picoboard 4 channels
- 8.4v 250mAh Nicad
- 2x pico servos
- Easysim R/C Simulator

Piccolo Pro (I think this is the one with the collective pitch)
- Kit
- 410 Motor
- Picoboard Pro (6 channels including heading hold)
- 3x pico servos
- 10.8v 700mAh Twicell NiMh pack
- Easysim R/C Simulator


That's where my research ends so far. But from what I've read, the Piccolo Pro (with collective pitch) can go as far as inverted flight and 3D.

Anyone else add their comments?

[turco]

Some yrs ago i started with a shuttle Z nitro
crashed atleast X6 at $125 each crash
of course learning on own in driveway
gave up but did get HELIFEVER
last Xmas got a piccolo fun complete FP kit
i crashed about 75 times atleast 10+ hard crashes
then i had to send off the piccoboard for repair of the gyro $40
in the 6 crashes with the shuttle my gyro was spent
in those crashes baught blades and some landing gear struts
about $25 worth
i have spent all my money on upgrades believe me it's not cheaper
with electric every upgrade = better flying heli
i learned to fly in my kitchen last winter Well to Hover
more than i ever got with the shuttle
with the piccolo after a crash if you can find all the parts
they pop back together maybe some CA glue
I'm working on a Pro kit now with upgrades Brushless, Ect, Ect
i have 3 piccolo kits now 1 Moth setup , 1 Fun Brushless setup,
1 Cobra scale Brushless setup the one in pic below screenname
I'm hooked i have HELIFEVER !!!!!!!!!!!!!
with the help of the Ikarus BB i learned on my own
i get 15-20 minute flights with these new Li-Poly batteries
HELIFEVER RULES


keep it in the air
turco

I personally think you should start out with Smartech Aerowhawk. You can buy one off eBay for around $200 (US) dollars with every single thing you need to fly. By the way, I'm only 13 years old, and I started out with a raptor 30 and i plan on buying an Aerowhawk. I also fly RC airplanes and real helicopters!! Hope this helps!! :-)

[turco]

You can get a piccolo fun from a reputable company who will answer the phone with any questions
$ 252 http://www.slyshobbyden.net/inc/pdetail?v=1&pid=2303
$ 280 RTF http://www.slyshobbyden.net/inc/pdetail?v=1&pid=2017
usually 2-3 day delivery in the US
might be worth the extra few bucks
all parts are Instock even Mods
plus you get the Ikarus BB Loads of info



keep it in the air
Turco

Helicopters shop with good price: http://www.hobbyjapan2000.com/store/...php?cat=6&pg=2