RCU Review: ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF


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    Contributed by: Greg Covey | Published: October 2009 | Views: 15619 | email icon Email this Article
    ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF

    Review by: Greg Covey
    Flying Photos: "Papa Jeff" Ring
    Video Pilot: Devin McGrath


    Distributed Exclusively in the U.S.A. by:


    Horizon Hobby, Inc
    4105 Fieldstone Road
    Champaign, IL 61822
    Ph: (800) 338-4639
    Toll Free: (800) 338-4639
    Fax: (217) 352-6799
    www.horizonhobby.com



    Complete RTF Kit
    No Assembly Required
    Power System Included
    Battery and Charger Included
    Superb Flying Performance
    Binds to any DSM2 Transmitter
    Durable and Easy to Repair
    Spare Parts Available


    Prop Replacement Instructions Missing
    ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF

    The ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF is the first 4-channel Ultra-Micro flyer to utilize Bind-N-Fly DSM2 technology that will thrill experienced pilots with its amazing aerobatic capabilities. Based on a Mike McConville design, this exciting addition to ParkZone's family of Ultra-Micro aircraft flies like a much bigger plane.

    The Sukhoi has been engineered for a true 4-channel experience, with its remarkable precision control making it perfect for flight in a large yard or gymnasium or even a park on a calm day. All you do is charge the included 110mAh Li-Po battery and bind the plane to one of the many compatible DSM2 transmitters. From rolling circles, loops and snap rolls to aileron rolls, spins and inverted flight, the maximum aerobatic performance of the Ultra-Micro Sukhoi Su-26m is unlike anything else this size.

    Specifications:

    • Wingspan:15.75 in (400mm)
    • Overall Length:14.25 in (366mm)
    • Flying Weight:1.1 oz (34 g)
    • Radio:Spektrum AR6400 receiver (installed), 5+ channel 2.4GHz transmitter with Spektrum DSM2 (required)

    Key Features:

    • Ready to fly out of the box, just needs to be bound to DSM2 aircraft transmitter (not included)
    • Includes high performance 110mAh Li-Po battery, charger, and batteries for the charger
    • True 4-channel control is ideal for experienced pilots
    • Includes Spektrum's innovative AR6400 receiver
    • Lightweight, durable and easy-to-repair EPS construction
    BNF Contents :

    The ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF comes well packaged and protected. The box can easily be used to safely store the model when traveling or not in use.

    The flight battery (a single cell LiPo), charger, and 4 AA cells to power the charger are all included in the box for the BNF version.

    Assembly:

    The only preparation needed to fly is to install the 4 AA cells into the charger, charge up the single-cell flight pack, and bind the transmitter to the AR6400 receiver within the first 5 seconds of plugging in the flight battery.

    I started with the battery positioned in the center of the compartment and then slowly moved it aft on each flight until it was as far back as it could go. After a few flights, I used the procedure in the manual to open the fuselage and increase my aileron throw. It was very easy to do!

    AR6400 User Guide Error Bulletin from Horizon

    ATTENTION AR6400 OWNERS
    There is an error in the AR6400 User Guide, under the AR6400 Features and Ports section, the motor output wiring diagram is incorrect for both the Brushed, and Brushless output options.

    We apologize if you have experienced any inconvenience related to this error; please contact our Product Support Department (877-504-0233 or e-mail productsupport@horizonhobby.com) for questions, or returns.

    See the corrected motor wiring diagram on the right:

    Test Flying

    The first video of the Sukhoi BNF was done in 10mph winds showing some 3D maneuvers by Team JR's, Devin McGrath. We had some pavement to take off from and land on. The windy conditions really show just how versatile the Sukhoi Su-26m design is and how it can adapt given the right set of flying skills. The second video was done over grass in calmer conditions showing the capability of this micro-aerobatic design similar to flying it indoors. I added 35% exponential to the ailerons and 20% expo to the elevator controls but kept the throws at full. I think each video will speak for itself and show that the ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF is truly an impressive 4-channel micro-flyer!

    The ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF is recommended for intermediate to advanced level flyers. It is fairly rugged and should pose little problem for a lesser experienced pilot to fly in calm conditions with some guidance. Flying the Sukhoi outside over a grassy area in little to no wind conditions can be enjoyed by most skill levels and it is very difficult to damage.

    Download and Watch in Windows Media Player here!

    Download and Watch in Windows Media Player here!


    Summary

    The ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF is the first 4-channel Ultra-Micro flyer to utilize Bind-N-Fly DSM2 technology and it proved to be a thrilling experience with its amazing aerobatic capabilities.

    So far, I have only flown it outside in both calm conditions and with some wind. I recommend that the first flights be outside over grass in calm conditions. Start with low rates and then increase the throws once you become comfortable flying it and desire more aerobatic capability. It can then perform rolling circles, loops, snap rolls, aileron rolls, spins, and even inverted flight. The aerobatic performance of this micro-sized Sukhoi Su-26m is unlike anything else I have seen in this size.

    The only instructions I could not find in the manual was some aid in replacing a broken prop. I discovered that the spinner is glued on and can easily be pulled off. The prop is threaded onto the shaft and can either be removed by using angled pliers or opening the fuselage to more easily grab the gearbox shaft while spinning off the prop. A spare prop comes with the package so it can be easily replaced, if needed.

    The ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF is ready to fly out of the box. The only preparation needed to fly is to install the 4 AA cells into the charger, charge up the single-cell flight pack, and bind the transmitter to the Vapor receiver within the first 5 seconds of plugging in the flight battery.

    It is truly a remarkable micro-flyer!








    ParkZone Models
    Distributed Exclusively in the U.S.A. by:
    Horizon Hobby, Inc
    4105 Fieldstone Road
    Champaign, IL 61822
    Ph: (800) 338-4639
    Toll Free: (800) 338-4639
    Fax: (217) 352-6799
    Website: www.horizonhobby.com

    Distributed Exclusively in the U.S.A. by:
    Horizon Hobby, Inc

    Comments on RCU Review: ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m BNF

    Posted by: caltrop on 10/13/2009
    The Sukhoi is nose heavy and the prop breaks easily.It also will NOT do 3D. I get tired of seeing all the pictures of it going vertical, it makes you think it will perform when in reality it will NOT!Wait until the new micro 4-Site biplane comes out later this year.
    Posted by: ericrcpilot on 10/14/2009
    There are videos right above your post showing it will 3D.
    Posted by: Allen_Dish on 10/19/2009
    There is lot of feedback on the CG. You must move the battery way back to get it right. Typically, you will have it around 33 to 35mm for 3D while the manufacture specifies around 26mm. Very cool airplane.
    Posted by: rc6 on 10/24/2009

    Posted by: Flanker-Fanatic on 11/17/2009
    I too have flown a stock Su with a freshly charged battery and been rewarded with a model that staggered around barely able to climb. The local hobby shop has had 3 returned due to lack of performance. Either the models in the films above are being flown modified or ParkZone/Horizon needs to work on their quality control. I find it hard to believe that you can have a 50-50 chance at getting a good motor. As a lover of all things Sukhoi, I was VERY disappointed.
    Posted by: littledevile420 on 11/18/2009

    Posted by: littledevile420 on 11/18/2009
    I have 2 of theese planes and i love them they are squirly in the wind but they are tough. They are a bit of a challenge to fly in the wind, but i would recommend it for sure. 3d is possible but tricky due to its size i changed the throws on the control horns and added a tiny weight to the tail and i can get rolling torque rolls pretty easily(providing no wind) fun and durible i love it
    Posted by: jeff2007 on 11/18/2009
    I have one of these and had to change the prop to a GWS 5043 to make the plane fly. It barely flew before this mod. To get it to loop I had to go into a dive first.I also added very thin CF rods(taped) to the trailing edges of the elevator and the rudder. The plane flies really well now, but was absolutely terrible right out of the box.
    Page: 1
    The comments, observations and conclusions made in this review are solely with respect to the particular item the editor reviewed and may not apply generally to similar products by the manufacturer. We cannot be responsible for any manufacturer defects in workmanship or other deficiencies in products like the one featured in the review.

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