Pylon Racer RC Planes: Tips for Racing and Safety
Pylon racing is a highly competitive RC aircraft sport that requires speed, precision control, and sky-high racing skills. This type of racing involves flying radio-controlled planes through a course of flagged air gates arranged in a zigzag pattern. The goal is to complete the course in the shortest time possible without hitting the gates, which is no small feat, as the planes typically fly at speeds of up to 200 mph! Pylon racing is a thrilling and exciting sport, and it draws a lot of attention from hobbyists and enthusiasts alike. This type of RC aircraft racing has been around for several decades and has become increasingly popular over the years. It is often considered as one of the most challenging and rewarding types of RC aircraft racing available today, and it’s not hard to see why. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the world of pylon racer RC planes, from the different models available to safety precautions and maintenance tips.
Pylon racer RC planes come in different shapes and sizes, and each one has specific features and performance capabilities. Here are some of the most common types of pylon racer RC planes:
- Trainers – designed for pilots who are new to pylon racing and are not comfortable flying at high speeds.
- Sport planes – ideal for pilots who have some experience and are looking for a more challenging model.
- Racing planes – designed with the sole purpose of racing and can fly at high speeds and make tight turns.
- 3D planes – designed for precision aerobatics and can perform complex maneuvers such as stall turns, loops, and rolls.
When choosing a pylon racer RC plane, it’s essential to consider factors such as wingspan, weight, motor type and power output, and wing loading. Experienced pilots usually prefer planes with a smaller wingloading or a higher power output as this results in higher speeds.
There are many websites and products that specialize in pylon racing, such as RCGroups.com, HorizonHobby.com, and TowerHobbies.com. These sites offer essential information about RC aircraft, including reviews, comparison charts, and buyer’s guides. You can also find kits to build your pylon racer RC plane or purchase an already assembled one.
What are the different types of RC plane propulsion?
RC planes are not just toys anymore; they have become a serious hobby for many. While some people prefer building their own planes from scratch, others enjoy buying and flying pre-built ones. Regardless of the method, one important aspect of RC planes is their propulsion system.
RC planes can be powered by various propulsion systems, but the most popular one is jets. Jets can be powered by electric or glow plug ducted fan or miniature gas turbine engines. Electric-powered jets are generally quieter and easier to maintain than other jet engines. They are also more environmentally friendly, as they produce no emissions.
On the other hand, glow plug ducted fan and miniature gas turbine engines are generally more powerful but require a lot of flying experience and a big budget. The engine alone can cost a couple of thousand dollars. These propulsion systems create an authentic sound akin to a real jet, as they burn fuel to create thrust.
In addition to jets, RC planes can also be powered by propellers, which are more common in smaller planes. There are also different types of propellers, such as pusher and puller propellers. Puller propellers are mounted in front of the plane’s engine and are suitable for RC planes with a tractor configuration. Pusher propellers, on the other hand, are mounted behind the plane’s engine and are ideal for RC planes with a pusher configuration.
In conclusion, there are different types of RC plane propulsion systems, including jets, electric-powered ducted fans, glow plug ducted fans, miniature gas turbines, and propellers. Each of these propulsion systems has its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one depends on the type of RC plane as well as the pilot’s budget and experience level.
Skills Required for Pylon Racer RC Planes
Flying a pylon racer RC plane requires a set of specific skills to be mastered. Here are some of the critical skills that an RC pilot should develop when flying pylon racer planes:
- Precise and quick control of flight movements.
- Understanding of weight distribution and throttle control.
- Excellent situational awareness and quick decision-making skills.
- Good hand-to-eye coordination.
To improve these skills, it is essential to practice consistently, have a high-quality RC simulator, and learn from experienced pilots.
An essential element in acquiring flying skills is practicing at specific locations designated for such activities. Here are some of the most famous pylon racing locations across the US:
| Location | Description |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | The National Championship Air Races take place in Reno, Nevada, annually. It is a weeklong event that has RC pylon racing as one of the main attractions. |
| The AMA Flying Site, Muncie Indiana | It is one of the most popular flying sites centrally located in the US. |
| Taylor’sville Lake Radio Control Model Airplane Club | It is a beautiful location for flying, located in Kentucky. The club meets weekly, and their members usually participate in various competitions across the region. |
There are many instructional resources, such as RC groups and FLitetest.com, that offer pilots information on how to improve their skills and build custom-built pylon racer RC planes.
What do you need for RC plane?
If you’re looking to embark on the exciting journey of building and flying RC airplanes, you may be wondering what equipment is essential to get started. The good news is that you don’t need an overwhelming amount of gear; all you need are the main components of a plane. This includes the body or fuselage, the wings, the rudder or ailerons/elevator, wheels, a motor, and a radio transmitter.
The fuselage serves as the main body of your RC plane and houses the motor and other internal components. It’s typically made of balsa wood, fiberglass or carbon fiber. Meanwhile, the wings provide lift and support the weight of the plane. They’re usually constructed with balsa wood or foam covered with a thin layer of plastic sheeting.
The rudder, ailerons, and elevator control the movement of the plane. The rudder is used to steer left and right, while the ailerons are used to control the roll or banking of the plane. The elevator manages the plane’s pitch or up and down movement. Wheels are added to the bottom of the fuselage to enable takeoff and landing.
To power your RC plane, you’ll need a motor, which is typically an electric motor that runs on a battery. More efficient batteries and motors have made it easier than ever to build RC airplanes, and you can choose from a variety of sizes and types to customize your plane.
Finally, a radio transmitter is necessary to control the plane. This handheld device sends signals to the plane’s receiver, allowing you to operate it from the ground. Radio equipment has become more affordable in recent years, making it accessible to more hobbyists.
With these essential components in hand, you’ll be well on your way to building and flying your own RC airplanes.
Popular Pylon Racer RC Planes Models
There are several pylon racer RC plane models on the market that are popular among enthusiasts. Here are some models worth considering:
- Seagull Models Nemesis NXT: This is a high-performance model aircraft that features a lightweight design and a wingspan of 40 inches. It can reach speeds of up to 100 mph and is recommended for intermediate to advanced pilots.
- E-flite UMX Radian: This is an ultra-micro model designed for indoor racing. It has a wingspan of 16.1 inches and weighs only 1.5 ounces, making it an excellent option for beginners and those with limited space.
- Extreme Flight Edge 540T: This is a high-performance model designed for advanced pilots. It has a wingspan of 48 inches and can reach speeds of up to 150 mph. It is easy to assemble and features a durable build.
It is essential to review product descriptions, customer reviews, and specifications sheet before buying any pylon racer RC plane. Additionally, one should purchase a high-quality transmitter, receiver, and battery.
One of the best resources for purchasing pylon racer RC planes and associated gear is the online store Rcuniverse.com, which offers a wide selection of products, including RC planes, drones, and helicopters. They also have a forum community that can be useful for receiving advice and staying up-to-date with trends in the industry.
How fast is the RC pylon racing?
RC Pylon Racing is not for the faint of heart. This high-speed excitement is not just reserved for full-sized aircraft, as these small RC planes can obtain astounding speeds of nearly 200 mph. The races take the form of a time-trial where the flyers have to navigate through a marked course while racing against time. These planes are specifically designed for racing with their sleek and streamlined appearance and are powered by powerful engines. The pilots have to maintain complete control of their aircraft, sometimes even flying at a height of only a few feet off the ground. The adrenaline rush from watching these tiny planes whiz past is exhilarating, and it’s not hard to see why RC Pylon Racing is such a popular and addictive sport.
Conclusion
Pylon racer RC planes are fantastic aircraft for those seeking speed and precision control. With the various models available in the market, you can find one that will fit your skill level and match your preferences. However, these planes do require expertise and constant training to master, which should not be taken lightly considering the potential risk to yourself and others.
Operating RC planes is an exciting hobby, and with the necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, joining RC plane communities can provide a wealth of knowledge and support, enabling you to develop your skills and take your hobby to the next level.
To conclude, if you are interested in the hobby or looking to improve your skills, a pylon racer RC plane could be the perfect challenge you’re looking for. With the right determination, practice, and equipment, you can be soaring your way towards a thrilling experience.
