Considering the universally accepted axiom of “bigger flies better,” the Tower Hobbies Sbach 3D ARF, with a wingspan of 49.6 inches, is sized to maximize flight performance while minimizing setup time. I was pleased to hear that Tower Hobbies would be releasing a version that was sized (and priced) for the masses.Īs most experienced RC pilots will tell you, the wingspan limit for a model transported in an average-size vehicle without its wing being removed is somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 to 52 inches. The RC community was quick to embrace this dreamy-looking machine, and for much of the past decade, manufacturers have been turning out scale versions.įrom tiny profile foamies to massive 40% beasts-the Sbach 342 has taken its place among the most popular RC aerobatic designs. Extremely curvaceous, the airframe looks fast simply sitting on the tarmac. Two years later, the Sbach 42/XA42 was released. This win came five months after the aircraft’s maiden flight. Its single-seat predecessor, the Sbach 300/XA41, won the first competition it entered: the unlimited category at the German Aerobatic Championships in 2006. Named for its designer, Philipp Steinbach, the full-scale Sbach 342 (XA42) gained popularity in a short period of time. Swinging a 14 x 7 propeller, the recommended power system provides unlimited vertical performance. Inadequate speed of recommended servos limits 3D performance.Higher wing loading results in noticeable post-stall instability and wing rock.Fits in most passenger vehicles without wing removal.Visually striking color and design scheme aids in visual orientation.Wide flight envelope includes sport, precision, aerobatics, and 3D.Unlimited vertical performance with recommended power system.Radio system: Futaba 6K transmitter four Futaba S3150 slim digital servos Receiver: Futaba R3006SB FASST 2.4 GHz six-channel receiver Propeller: Xoar 14 x 7 Beechwood APC 13 x 8 thin electric 32 42-50-800 brushless outrunner Hitec Energy Sport 80-amp ESC with 5-amp SBECīattery: Turnigy nano-tech 14.8-volt 3,300 to 4,000 mAh 25C to 50C LiPo 32 outrunner brushless motor or equivalent As seen in the March 2018 issue of Model Aviation.

Tower hobbies