E-Flite Eratix 3D FF (Flat Foamy) 860mm BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select - Model AV8R Review

In Model AV8R Episode 61, we feature the brand new E-Flite Eratix 3D profile foamy. This model is engineered to bring a super quick assembly option to the 32" to 34" 3D profile foamy market. We not only review the Eratix, but put it through a comparison to its competition. We'll see how it stacks up regarding price point, assembly, fit & finish, weight, resilience, and of course flight performance. Adam puts it head to head with his JTA Innovations Gamebird. How will the Eratix fare against the competition? Tune in and see!
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Chapters:
00:00 Intro/What's In The Episode
00:46 Assembly/Features
02:33 Eratix Flight Footage
12:10 Flight Impressions
15:46 Comparison - About the Genre/Price Point
17:51 Comparison - The Foam, Finish And Resilience
19:35 Comparison - Assembly/Build
20:35 Comparison - Weight
21:58 Comparison - Flight Performance With Gamebird Flight Footage
28:25 Set Up Page/Throttle Curve
28:35 Our Final Thoughts
#rc #aviation #eflite

[@darrylbernstein3681]

Just on the cusp of buying my 1st 3d - your insights and review were incredibly useful - thank you very much.(I am a fit 79 yr old returning to this hobby after 50yr absence. Looking to re-capture all the joy possible for me)

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Darryl welcome back! Thanks for the kind words. The Eratix is perfect for your mission! You'll have a blast with it.

[@cattledogsherman404]

Thank you Adam for an outstanding model review. You were very thorough with excellent observations and knowledgeable comments. I am a very experienced giant scale 3D pilot but have decided to pick up this great airplane because my field does not allow gas engines to operate before 09:00 A.M. and at that time the field tends to get more crowded and the winds pickup. With the large giant scale airplane taking up most of the real estate in my SUV, the Eratix is just small and light enough to sit on top of or just below my gas plane. Also, as Adam states, because you can fly lower and closer than you would with a 30 pound airplane, your 3D skills are likely to improve much faster.....Fly safe everyone.............3D Pete

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much for the kind words Pete. The Eratix is perfect for that purpose and you'll be ready to fly it in minutes. Solid plane. I actually got one for myself and gave the Gamebird to a buddy.

[@radukapu]

Thank you for sharing your experience and very comprehensive video. You answered all my questions. I think this plane is exactly what i need right at the moment.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Secondrunnerup613]

Thank you for helping me stay clear of the Eratix. Twisted hobbies is where ill go for my 3d plane.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

I still fly both, they are all good including the Eratix, especially if you don't want to build, but the lighter ones do fly best for 3D...just stay away from the Radiolink A560 if you're serious about learning 3D. They meant well but missed the mark.

[@muhammad_hasnat]

​@@ModelAV8RChannelwhat about JTA innovations have you tried them?

[@RCPilot48]

Really nice flying to watch! It’s a pleasure to watch someone who is so good, they make look easy.👏👏👏

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed it. Fun planes to fly for sure!

[@CaliforniaOutdoorsman]

Great comparison and info, I love how the JTA flies!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Steven!

[@joegroves2517]

Thanks for this information! I haven't tried 3D and am thinking about this and this helps me understand a lot better.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@xJae14x]

Just maidened my Eratix yesterday and could not be happier with it. Flies great and it’s just tons of fun tossing it around.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Congrats! They are, and so easy to get going!

[@robieosborne7369]

Thank you for this amazing review!!!!!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank YOU!

[@paanglin]

Outstanding shipmate. Press on. USS Kitty Hawk CV-63. Jan 1980 to July 1983. RC pilot for life A.

[@gisall8205]

Just did the Maiden on mine this morning. Went through 6 batteries. Although my skill level isn't anything near yours, Love this thing. It's going to be very addicting.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

You'll have a blast with it! Enjoy it man, it will make you a better pilot...great learning tools.

[@SteffenRC]

Best part of my Monday.. Drinking quality coffee and watching Model AV8R.. Great review Adam.. If there was ever a comparison example of how weight effects and RC Plane, this is it... The EFlite looks nice and easy to assemble, but that additional weight really makes a difference, you can really see it in the flight video.... Plus the bonus advice on being a better pilot.... Always appreciate your coaching advice on flying 3D..

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Wow Will, thank you man. That means a lot I appreciate the kind words.

[@kaptkronik135]

Great video! I got an eratix as my first plane, its awesome! Beacon foam tack, and a red sharpie keep mine looking pretty nice, its not an exact color match but pretty darn close and the price is right

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks! Great airplane!

[@michelpetrus]

Another great review. Thanks for all the work and effort you put in.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Michel, and thanks for watching!

[@ryansnyder7444]

This is by far the best review I’ve seen of this plane, I hope your other reviews are just as good

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much Ryan. I hope our other reviews are as good too!

[@WarbirdPiLOT]

Another honest review, and love the comparison angle 👍👍

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks man!

[@isitheaviator]

Interesting background😊

[@actuallynick1]

I've had the Eratix for a few weeks now. I'm still pretty new to 3d but I feel like it's easier to hover than a simulator. I don't have a lighter foamy to compare it to but it fly's slow enough and the stock motor rev's like butter.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

It's a great plane. Great first profile foamy. It will teach you a lot! Enjoy!

[@ruger0962]

Sir i gotta say, between you and tail heavy, your reviews are of some of the best on youtube. Thanks for helping us window shoppers make our minds up.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much!

[@JustwingitRC]

Dude!!! Looks like you got your 3D Mojo on!!! Seriously! I have always been in amazement how folks fly 3D; I've never been into it, won't get in it, just isn't my thing. That said: I TOTALLY respect the skill it takes to do it! I mean, to imagine in your mind the various maneuvers, and then make the model become an extension of those thoughts is just, well, unreal. AND, the bonus part, you guys use such cool sounding words for those maneuvers! I mean, it's a language all by itself! But I digress, seriously, you did a great job exhibiting the Eratix, and even comparing to a like aircraft, and Heidi did her usual excellent work capturing all the shenanigans! As Johnny Carson's Carnac the Magnificent would say, "I see at least 4-5 YT Shorts coming outta this one"! All the best and Happy Thanksgiving to Team Gault!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Lol! Thanks brother John! I'm starting to get my 3D chops back a little, but still a ways to go to get back where I was when I did it all the time. I may never have enough time to get it there again, but its fun to try! Yes sir...a short or two may happen! LOL!! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours bro!!

[@DadsRCHangar]

Great review Adam, some skilful flying as usual buddy 🫡

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Chris!

[@EssentialRC]

Nice! Liking the size of this. I had several of the old small profile eFlite model. Great for monthly indoor sessions at my club. Thanks !

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Hey Dom thanks very much man! I had a few of the old micro 3D's myself, I think I'd have liked them more if I had an indoor venue to fly them at. Outside in wind the AS3X was always making funky corrections...lol.

[@rlbutterfield]

GREAT video, and very interesting comparison! 👍🏻

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Randy!

[@trulymichiganaerialrandycl4873]

Just got mine, can't wait to fly it!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

You'll enjoy it!

[@gazzabyerun9048]

Take cover!!! LOL, Someone firing away! Nice flight, my flying rc is done for the winter, last night it was 8* up here and the ground is covered with the snow now! Nice flight and thanks for sharing! 🏴‍☠Semper Fi, God speed

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you brother...stay warm! Holy crap 8 degrees!!

[@gazzabyerun9048]

@@ModelAV8RChannel Stays cold out like this hopefully everything will freeze up so i can get out on the lake and do some ice fishing! I wish a company would make a nice hobby grade RC snowmobile, bet you they would sell like hotcakes at a country fair! LOL

[@gazzabyerun9048]

@@old-rcplane-phart No schools near here that allow that, it's all good, ice fishing is coming up with this cold weather! Can't wait to get out on the ice!

[@danflom1271]

I just maidened my Eratix. I had a bad case of the jitters but I'm blaming that on the cold. I never noticed but I have a very slight curve centered on the cockpit. A little rudder trim was needed but not much. Hopefully I can learn 90% of what this plane is capable of.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

You'll enjoy it Dan, and it will make you a better pilot! Glad you got one!

[@trevorfurlotte]

Perfect for where I fly.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

You need one...lol!

[@trevorfurlotte]

@@ModelAV8RChannel 2

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

@@trevorfurlotte lol

[@emersonb5764]

Interesting they re-used the name Eratix. I’ve got their ~54” balsa eratix from 10+ years back. It’s cool cus it’s a lot like the old “fun fly” planes from back in the 90’s with crazy thick airfoils. This one looks like a decent 3d foamy though.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yep, it does the name justice. A bit heavy, but still a very good 3D foamy!

[@scottelmore7928]

..............................Model AV8R3D...........................! Great review Adam, and I always learn something new!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks brother Scott, and thanks for ALL you do for our channel!

[@tistarc9900]

Very nice review! Good comparism and explainations.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you!

[@rackmasterh]

Excellent review. Thanks!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you!

[@brianchamberlain9630]

Thanks for this Video! I just put mine together. I loved the Quality of the Build for the Money.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks for watching Brian!

[@millerrc5829]

Very nice review and comparison. I was concerned about the weight the eratix was going to have with all that plastic on it, and this video confirms that the twisted or jta planes are better for me and that is what I would go for. Even at the cost of electronics and building time.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much. I get it man, me too. The Eratix is a nice concept and a good flyer, but the lighter planes do fly better. Plus building is a good skill to develop.

[@adamrodgers2377]

Awesome flying Bro! I do believe I am going to get this one in a couple months, I think it can improve my flying tremendously.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Adam! It is a good flyer, easy assembly for sure!

[@adamrodgers2377]

@@ModelAV8RChannel Cool, stoked on the ease of assembly with is one 🤙🏼

[@JustEnoughRC]

Super fun plane brother. Great review my friends 👏 👍

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you brother Jude!

[@dutchloveRC]

Great video guys!! have a Blessed Thanksgiving

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Joel! You and yours as well my friend!

[@CR5rc]

Another great video filled with more great flying. I'll be following your advice to get a flat foamy to get my rudder thumb dialed in. It will be this one and I'll be using my 3S 850mAh packs :) You're 100% on the use of SAFE on a plane like this. No matter what happens above 25ft, with the time availbe if the pilot can't figure it out and get a plane like this back in control they should be flying a trainer. Below 25ft and by the time the pilot decides to hit the switch the system probably won't have time to correct before the ground. I never use it, I try to fly out myself until the crunch, I learned without it and would rather crash than use it. Crashing is part of the hobby, gives me an excuse to buy a new toy.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks brother! I appreciate the kind words man. Fun plane, easy to get going. Looks great too. Enjoy it!

[@Finalmile_FPV]

I was really hoping you’d review this one. I have an arrows edge 540 I got a deal on and it’s beyond my abilities, so I bought one of these as an educational basher for 3D. Your experience and expertise makes me glad I went this route before building a traditional ultra light flat foamy.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks so much for the kind words my friend. Glad you like the Eratix...it will teach you a lot. Fun plane!

[@IansRCExploits]

Great review Adam and nice comparison of the new against old 😀👍

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Ian!

[@payitfwdrcl6171]

Adam. You are fun to watch. “3D Master You Are”. 👊👊👍👍😉

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Brad. Really glad you enjoy our channel buddy. See Jase Dussia, that is a master! Lol

[@payitfwdrcl6171]

@@ModelAV8RChannel Yes. He is one too! 😊

[@richardwebb8729]

Jase at JTA shure has great planes. Check out his quick builds videos. Most of the carbon is pre installed.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

I saw that, although the more complete options only apply to local pick up.

[@purcellrcaviationchannel]

Wow! That was some tricksy flying, Adam! It was interesting to see how much smoother your older 3D model flew, but I guess HH pitched this Eratix as an entry into the genre. If I flew one of these 3D fancies, it would last approximately 3 seconds before going home in a bin bag 😂

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Gina! I dunno, I think you could fly one.

[@purcellrcaviationchannel]

@@ModelAV8RChannel 😂😂😂

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

@@purcellrcaviationchannel You could, just dial the throws down to reasonable instead of where I have them...redneck mode! LOL!!

[@purcellrcaviationchannel]

@@ModelAV8RChannel If ever there was a model designed for Bubba, I think this could be it 😆

[@HciContractor]

Hey Adam do you change the throttle curve on your flat foamies? I love my Mamba 10. It's the bomb! Under powered unfortunately. I ordered the 4s Motor The elite ultimate is slightly smaller than the mamba but heavier and the difference is exactly what you showed us. Thanks Adam

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

I do if it is necessary. My goal is to get the power to come in as close to the same way as possible on all my 3D planes so that my gimbal position is in the same place power wise during key 3D positions like harrier.

[@mikehundley9876]

I will buy a kit Adam and send it to you for the build.HaHa I just don't have the patience for such things.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yeah Mike that is the Eratix strong suit...ready to go in minutes!

[@airhammer6203]

Nice work Adam. Great job on the camera Heidi. A really good comparison video!! The Eratix does look better imo, but the other is way more durable. I've always wanted to get something like this, the Twisted Beaver actually. I just want to move the sticks around and watch it go!! :). Good stuff Adam. AirHammer out!!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks bro! Yeah man the Twisted Beaver is a fun plane. Got a buddy that has one and we have a blast with it! I want the Fokker and Gee Bee!!

[@JeffinTD]

Excellent video and great information. Opportunities to fly larger planes have become limited for me, and I’m thinking of a EPP 3D foamy, preferably one that flies on 3S1300, so a bit bigger.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Those are out there.

[@JeffinTD]

@@ModelAV8RChannel Yeah. I’m eyeballing Twisted Hobby’s 39” Extra 260L, or for about 1/2 the all-up price Dancing Wing’s Shining.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

@@JeffinTDYep, half the price, and will fly twice as good.

[@JeffinTD]

@@ModelAV8RChannel So you’d recommend the Shining then? A buddy has one and it seems to fly well. I’ve had one of the smaller Twisted Hobbies planes and it flew excellent- but the area I live in isn’t known for windsurfing just for the river… I’d for sure choose to have one great flying model over two not so great flyers, but otoh spending close to swap meet smaller gas 3D plane money on a foamy kinda defeats the purpose.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Oh no, sorry I mis-read your reply. The Twisted Hobby's stuff is far superior when compared to most foam 3D profile planes. Worth the extra money in my opinion.

[@sirstomper]

Great review. I own half a dozen Twisted Hobby's profile planes and love them but have never heard of JTA Innovations Game Bird before. Between the videos of the two planes there is a world of difference between them. That slow knife-edge circle with the game bird was just so stable! Looks like I'll have to pick one up and give it a try.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Hey thanks very much. So the JTA in JTA Innovations stands for "Jase the Ace". The best 3D pilot on the planet is Jase Dussia, and that is his company. Like Twisted Hobby's, all his stuff flies great.

[@sirstomper]

@@ModelAV8RChannel I think everybody in RC knows of Jase Dussia, he is one amazing pilot but had no idea he had his own business going. Thanks

[@_UAV_PILOT]

I have an E-Flite E300D, I am very happy with how it flies. What do you think of the Eratix compared to the E300D? Does Eratix have enough power for KE loop, flat spin, harrier roll? Which battery did you use (600mA or 850mAh). Thank you very much.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

E300D is a full bodied airplane. Nothing like a profile foamy. Watch the flying and you'll see the difference. Everything else you asked in is the episode...

[@davidfisher]

Adam - thanks for this very informative video. I’ve had this bird for a month now and still have some trouble finding the proper CG. The instructions are confusing because they reference measuring from the wing root, but the illustration shows measuring from the outside leading edge which is 22mm aft of the wing root. Your setup page shows 87mm aft of the wing root - is that the actual wing root? Thanks!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yes sir I thought that was a weird way to do it, so we measured from the actual wing root close to the fuse to make it easier. Basically, If you're using the 800mah packs, put them forward in the strap and she should be fine. Remember proper CG is more about what it does in the air than a number. It's also good to understand that since these profile foamys have no airfoil, they rely on angle of attack to make lift, so even when the plane is going through the air "straight", it actually has a couple of degrees of AoA. We usually trim them at about 40% to 60% throttle. Because of the nature of how they make lift, when we go to full throttle they can climb or dive a bit depending on the plane and CG. We just learn to compensate for that as most of the time given what we do with them (mostly high alpha stuff) that really is rarely a factor. Hope this helps! Have fun with it!

[@davidfisher]

Thanks - that’s helpful. I’m flying the 850 pack and had to move it nearly as far back as possible to balance it out at 86mm. We’ll see how that works later today.

[@davehrcfpv]

A great and very thorough review from you Adam as always. I love 3D planes. I like the original look of the Eratix, it's not pretending to be another plane. I like the thoughtful reinforcement for improved crash durability, although at the penalty of additional weight as you mention. I agree with you that 3D planes are great for advancing flying skills. I find that they are a great teaching tool and not just for intermediate fliers to progress with. No, I use my Hacker Edge 540 1200mm foamboard to *introduce* new fliers to flying! Yes, a 3D plane used for teaching from zero. It flies slow so you and the student can see exactly what happens when the sticks are moved, and they are not dumbed down by inherent airframe stability afforded by high-wing trainers or SAFE. Oh, and it bounces well and repairs easily. I have a Twisted Hobbys Edge 540 v3 SuperLITE 800mm that weighs in at 140g with a battery. Now that really does fly slowly, but only in very calm conditions or large indoor spaces. My lightest craft is an E-Flite UMX YAK54 400mm at 36g MOTM.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Dave! I like a full bodied trainer to get students more accustomed to the mass of a normal plane and move into takeoffs and landings with the plane they started with. That said there is more than one way to teach...

[@gmorphan]

I bought a standard 32" Twisted Hobbys flat foamie a few months ago after your video suggesting it as a tool to become a better RC pilot. I don't regret the buy...I've got 6 2S 250 mah batteries giving me 4 minutes of practice on each battery. I've actually seen my skills improve as evident in my hovering times increasing due to making more correct reactions on the control surfaces. Then Horizon launched this Eratix. 🤔 I love me almost anything Horizon Hobby and this would've been cheaper to get into (I've got $300 or so into my Twisted Hobbys with extra batteries & props). But I can see how my lighter weight foamie might be more durable and easier to use as the tool it was meant to be. I love your reviews and maybe someday I'll be half the RC pilot you are (I got a late start 🤣).

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Awesome man thanks for the kind words, and glad our content helps! All in all I think you have the best option for what you're doing. That said the Eratix is a fun plane to have and fly!

[@Speedbat76]

Great review..... I fly a twisted hobby crack yak 55 superlite series 2s setup but I will get the eratix to because it has a big advantage with its weight and 3s setup when it comes to handle windy conditions and where I live there are not many dead calm days so this eratix will be perfect for those days 😊

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you! You'll enjoy it, definitely has its advantages.

[@odwatchguy]

Thanks Adam that was a very informative video. I am a sport pilot who doesn't have much desire for 3D, bit I know that lighter wing loaded planes fly better and easier. Your 3D looks good and fun for you, enjoy.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Tony!

[@laurenceboag2325]

Excellent explanations. I am really enjoying my Eratix as I am learning to be a better 3D pilot. I do have a FF JTA Yak 54 which is just like you describe as the difference between your two planes and agree about your assessment. But I do need to change out my ESC in the Yak so that I can run a little more power.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks very much! I'm glad you're enjoying the FF's, they will absolutely make you a better pilot.

[@jcb6713]

nice review...seems like a great choice for a sport plane and wanting a little bit of 3D thrown in for some fun :-) ...

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks man! It's a good plane that has it advantages. It can do anything the others can do, but the lighter planes have an edge.

[@CliffHarveyRCPlanes]

Both of these planes as well beyond my skill level but great fun to watch nevertheless 🙂👍

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Hmm. I disagree Cliff. You could fly anything you set your mind to.

[@terrylee5416]

Thank you for another great video. I'm in California, where do I buy the game bird 33" FF.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Terry! I think they are sold at Flex now. I actually gave my Gamebird away, and got an Eratix! Lol. It isn't as light for sure, but it does everything I want it to do, I'm past the point of crashing them much, and it's better looking.

[@bg2176]

I have the Eratix and I like the power system in it so I swapped it into a multiplex slick x360 after I destroyed the airframe. The rudder and elevator servos are garbage in the Eratix and both failed on separate occasions resulting in a crash. The multiplex flies much better all around. Coincidentally I just picked up a jta gamebird so I’m excited after watching this. Good content !

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks for watching! Nothing like reusing some electronics. You'll love the Gamebird.

[@bg2176]

Yeah I’m loving the gamebird it’s a hoot 🦉

[@GOOGLE_IT-00]

Hello, what twisted hobbies air frame do you think would be suitable for the power system of the eratix?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Any of the monoplane standard 32" series.

[@DavidRitchie-tr2rn]

Just bought an E flight erratics it came with no bind plug. Is it possible to bind to my transmitter without one?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yep. Plug a battery in (prop off of course) and push the button on top of the RX. You will have to hold it in for a sec or two...then it will go into bind mode and you'll see the flashing orange light. Let the button go, and bind er up!

[@williamhoodtn]

Great video review! Never had a FF so I got the Eratix with both 850mAh and 600mAh batteries. On your setup, is that at 100% rates or something less? Also, what does the throttle curve help you with on a plane like this?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you man! Appreciate that. Yes that is 100% rate and servo travel. No adjustments made there. The throttle curve is a personal preference thing. I have a lot of 3D planes and when you get to a certain level you'll have a range where your throttle gimbal lives in harrier and hover. For most people its between 40% and 60% throttle. For me I'm making tiny throttle corrections around 40 to 45% throttle when I'm in a harrier or hover. I adjust the throttle curve on all my 3D planes slightly so the power comes in soon enough to put me in the range I want to be in for those corrections.

[@rexwilliams1108]

great video !!!!!!!!!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Rex!

[@CaliforniaOutdoorsman]

Which JR servos are you using in the Gamebird? Are they the E397?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

They are Hitec 5070MH's. Way overkill for it, but I like overkill...Lol.

[@CaliforniaOutdoorsman]

@@ModelAV8RChannel damn I was trying to copy yours and bought the JR's 😂

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Lol...well it will be fine with those.

[@reckemroysrc3764]

Excellent comp video. I think the gamebird is the winner. I like the lighter tendencies. And now I have the itch to pull out my profile plane and ring it out. 🙃 I've also got a larger scale profile project cooking that I need to finish up and it's just different. Remember if you RECKEM you better CHECKEM 👍🏻👍🏻😉✌️👊

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Roy! I prefer the lighter foamys as well.

[@terrylee5416]

Sorry, where can I buy the GameBird 33 with electronics in the US.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Flex Innovations

[@stevegmesser]

Thanks for the side by side review, I think I will pull the trigger and buy the Eratix. Question where can I get one of those stick planes you held up multiple times during the video?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks for watching! Those are Extreme Flight Stick planes, and they are out...but Supa Tim at Northwest RC has some in stock.

[@Retset]

As an owner of many Twisted Hobbys machines, I wanted to hate on this but it's decent value for money and certainly will work for somebody who doesn't want to spend many hours with the UHU Por. However, if you enjoy peeling foam glue off your fingers and want some 'proper' bendy EPP, then this one becomes less attractive.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

True, very true. I couldn't agree more. BTW...flew that Decathlon. Takes some setting up, but once dialed in...awesome! Episode soon...

[@Retset]

@@ModelAV8RChannel you remembered! I actually bought one last month as stock was running out in the UK. I still have to finish another project soon so will be enjoying your content and screenshotting your setup page before assembly commences!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Awesome, glad you got one!

[@Tallguysrc]

Mine was tucking bad towards the gear inverted with the 600mah I landed and noticed the elevator was the problem had a few clicks of down that I didn't catch after adjustments flew fine no weight added.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Interesting. Doesn't make sense it would be climbing towards the gear inverted and flying perfectly level right side up, and that be attributed to trim. These planes have no airfoil and use angle of attack to make lift and fly, so basically it should do the same thing right side up and inverted if its a trim issue. It would climb inverted, and dive right side up. If you can trim it one way, and its not neutral and flying straight the other...its a balance issue usually. We made sure our surfaces were centered before we ever flew it, and for us it was clearly a balance issue. All that said...if yours is flying the way you like that is all that matters.

[@Tallguysrc]

@Model AV8R it was just about perfect CG flew almost perfect right side up hands off, flipped inverted wanted to pitch towards the gear inverted, when I landed I noticed my elevator was as I said a little down like 2 click enough to cause it to pitch in verted, if you watch my video no other bad tendencies, oh and your video about EPP lighter planes is spot on, they float this one you have to fly.

[@Tallguysrc]

@Model AV8R I think what it is I like a tad tail heavy just my preference, i put it on my balancer and that what is showed, never the less amazing plane

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

This will be a wordy response, but I promise I'm just trying to help, so I'll explain what is confusing to me, and how I balance one of these. Might help, might not, but here it is in case it does. So just so we're on the same page "neutral" is the balance I'm looking for. That means if its hands off right side up, when we roll inverted it still is, just keeps tracking straight hands off. Just because a plane flies straight right side up doesn't mean its balanced, and the tendency to tuck towards the gear when you roll inverted is the clue its tail heavy. Think of it this way...we both know trim affects the plane regardless of weather its right side up or inverted right? So if its tracking straight right side up, but climbs inverted, and you adjust the trim to fix the issue inverted...how does that not adversely affect it right side up now? I mean the down elevator you took out was in there when it tracked straight right side up right? So if you take that out how is it not climbing right side up now? That's the confusing part...that isn't possible. You can't fix a pitch issue inverted with trim and it not also change what the plane is doing right side up. The way I get a 3D profile in balance and trim is this...and what the balancer on the bench says is irrelevant...that only tells you if its where the manual says it should be, not how it flies. I fly it, trim it to be hands off right side up at a lower throttle setting with a light profile foamy - maybe 35% to 50% throttle...enough to maintain flight, but not too fast. (you use more throttle with a heavier full bodied 3D plane)Then I roll inverted and see what it does. If it goes towards the gear...tail heavy, if it goes towards the canopy...nose heavy. I land, adjust the battery if I can but essentially I adjust the balance. Now I re-center the elevator trim and start over. I fly it, trim it to be hands off right side up, roll inverted, and see what it does now. I keep repeating this process until the balance is such that I get it trimmed hands off right side up, roll inverted, and it still tracks straight. When that happens...I'm there. Basically, with this type of airplane...if its doing something different inverted than its doing right side up at lower throttle settings, its not balanced neutral. All that said...balance is a personal preference. I prefer a plane more neutral based on what I like to do with them. Some folks prefer them a bit tail heavy or nose heavy based on what they like.

[@Tallguysrc]

@@ModelAV8RChannel 100% correct

[@terrylee5416]

Where can I buy the eratix 33, 3d with electronics, in the US?

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

There is a link in the description.

[@rcaviationcrawling7351]

Supurb flying brother Adam! It sure can fly slow, must be a very light model. It it possible to hover it just above the ground, then touch the tail on the ground and drop the nose? A vertical tail-first landing? Enjoyed the video. 👊👊!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

You can Mark, but its hard on the rudder servo.

[@epoweredrc]

Wonderful video Adam, very nice how you compared the planes and showed both of them. I think it is a good flying plane but it does lack in a few areas, i never could get a poptop out of it. honestly i didn't try a KE spin but i will be trying one now. For what it is, it is worth the money. I think a couple of club members might be picking one up after seeing mine fly and after seeing it up close in person.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thanks Chris. It is fun for sure.

[@JeffinLowerAlabama]

The Eflite FF would not be as durable and the Twisted Hobbies Hacker type EPP fun flyers. Would think that with a little flying contact like you might have flying indoors the plastic connectors will be tested. I like my Hacker XL Super Zoom, I think the eflite Eratix is a nice plane but. Great video Adam, Jeff in LA USA

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Thank you Jeff! I agree...

[@russcoaus2043]

😎✌️

[@FlankerTanker]

Adam - !!! - How's it all going, Not keen on profile aircraft or 3d come to think of it - I once made my own profile aircraft out of foamboard - SR71, F14, Bell X1 - I can see that it might be a cheap alternative and your review as always was Great to watch - I thought for a moment that someone might have shot it - LOL.... Someone once told me you can fly a barn door with enough power....

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Lol! Man I'd have liked to see those, SR-71 and Bell X-1...awesome! We are good buddy hope all is well with you and yours. It is true...a gun safe will fly with enough HP!!

[@todtalk3912]

I think you should sell your model, preferably to me, as they are on backorder, 😅

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Well Dang! Lol.

[@williamhoodtn]

Could you share the throttle side inputs to that throttle curve picture? I tried to replicate that and my graph doesn't look like yours much at all (NX8 w/3.06 FW).

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Sure William - THR Curve 1. 0 0 2. 18 24 3. 34 41 4. 50 58 5. 70 75 6. 84 88 7. 100 100

[@STEVEJELLY]

are you on 100 or 150 percent rates

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Full set-up is at 28:25.

[@tughillrc6327]

It is a very tough job to compare 3D flat foamies homie.Adam you did a very good review and well thought out. My question is the Eratix Bubba Approved?🤣🤣Have a nice day.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Hey thanks man. Oh yeah...Bubba likes it! Lol.

[@thomasallan8113]

I bought one of the cheap foamies and it was a chore to build. I did not like building it and I did a P*** pour job of it I threw it away and chalked it up to a $40 education. I do have a lot of the stuff needed to build one of these less a motor which is pretty cheap. If I get another, I will go with the more expensive ones. The difference is just a few 10's of dollars

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yeah there's a trick to building them straight, and they have to be straight or they fly weird. Twisted hobby's has some good build videos that will help a lot.

[@bigsmokerc]

Bit big and heavy for me I think. Still good to give access to people who don't want to build.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Yep. I think that's what mainly sells it. Horizon is really doing everything they can to make things as easy as possible. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. I kinda like to build.

[@bigsmokerc]

@@ModelAV8RChannel I think if you fly a model like this, and you haven't before, you're likely going to have to repair it anyway. So I guess many will get to do some building after all!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

@@bigsmokerc True, that is likely...

[@martinwhite418]

It just seems expensive.

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Compare to the competition. Right in line with what you'd pay for a 3D foamy, electronics, and RX from Twisted hobbies.