RC Sailplanes

RC sailplanes are available in many types, generally suited to the type of flying site available.

The classic Bird of Time is now available as an ARF, with built up wing and a fiberglass fuselage. Covered with beautiful Top Flite Monokote. Click here or the photo, to visit Amazon for further details

The world of sailplanes can be divided into many sub-divisions, generally determined by the type of flying site utilized or the launching method.




Thermal Soaring RC Sailplanes

Multiplex Cularis

This type of flying is generally accomplished from a flat flying field, with a large open space. Sod farms are ideal for this activity. (Of course permission of the owner is required, prior to flying)

Flight duration is largely determined by height achieved at launch and the degree of thermal activity, along with the pilots skill! 

Sailplanes of this type can be launched with a bungee ( a type of catapult) or towed by a large gas powered model, or can be electric powered.  

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Slope Soaring

Great Planes Grand Espirit

The great advantage of slope soaring, is that the method of launch can be a simple toss into the breeze, directly blowing onto the face of the hill! Flight times can be as long as you like-assuming the wind continues to blow in the correct direction!

The higher the hill, the better for this class of sailplanes.

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Dynamic Soaring

Kinetic DP Dynamic Soarer

Maybe the latest type of soaring. This is not for the faint of heart! The model attrition rate can be very high and speeds achieved can be amazing! Dynamic soaring produces the highest speeds of any RC airplane-even the gas turbines.

A special kind of slope is required and speed is built up like a sling-shot. The model is flown close to the ground and gravity and lift at the top of climb, combine to produce spectacular results!

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The Electric RC Glider

Parkzone Radian

This type is usually used for thermal soaring. The modern electric powered sailplane is an efficient method of gaining altitude. With the weight (and cost) of the new electrical systems coming down, this type of RC sailplane is very popular.

Power is used for the initial launch and climb to  altitude. The power is then shut down and lift is hunted down, in the form of thermals.

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