explain heli size/class

[tebutts]

I am new and would like someone to explain what ".30 size", etc mean. Is it the size of the bird or the engine? Is it the same for gas and electric? Thanks.

[hawkman]

For nitro type helis it refers to the cubic inch/volume of the cylinder bore....so .30 would mean .30 of a cubic inch.....in fact 30 size can include sizes from .28 up to .40 of a cubic inch.

50 size and we are getting more serious....the helis are about the same size as a 30 class heli but with more go in them.

I am not sure about electric so wont attempt an answer there.

Welcome to the Forum by the way.....this is a fascinating hobby.

Rob

[tebutts]

Hawkman,

Thanks a lot for the info. This forum seems a very friendly place.

[uneverno]

I can't speak to nitro , except to say that .30 seems to be the lower size limit with nitro, and the upper limit with electric due to powering issues on both sides, it being tough to power a heli with smaller engine (although I hear that's coming), and battery costs on larger electrics are too high to be really practical (over $ 200 per pack for ".30" size as is).
Electrics such as the TRex 600 and Century Swift are roughly the same size as a .30 gas. In electric that's the 600 class motor.

[tebutts]

Thannks Uneverno, that makes sense to me.

[hawkman]

Its a very freindly forum....I belong to another one which is good but prone to some silly arguments....I like this site because theres loads of newbies with good questions.....I am no expert but like to share my advice/opinions for others to think about and act on if they so wish....

Rob