Precision Aerobatics XR-52 ARF

Written by Geoff Barber. A versatile and enjoyable aerobat. Flight video and abridged review. Full review in the July 2015 issue of Model Aviation.

Specifications

Model type: Sport/3-D ARF Skill level: Intermediate to experienced Wingspan: 52 inches Wing area: 586.3 square inches Wing loading: 12.06 ounces per square foot Length: 48.94 inches All-up weight: 3.07 pounds, including carbon-fiber spinner and 4S battery Power system: .45-size brushless outrunner motor; 45-amp brushless ESC with BEC; 4S 2,200 mAh LiPo battery Radio: Minimum four-channel transmitter and receiver; four micro servos Accessories and hardware: 5 feet of servo extension wire; standard shop tools and adhesives Minimal flying area: Club field Flight duration: 5.5 to 7 minutes, depending on flying style Price: $239.95 (ARF only)

Test-Model Details

Power system: Precision Aerobatics Thrust 45 outrunner motor with RotorKool Technology; Precision Aerobatics Quantum 45-amp Pro High Performance Programmable ESC with SBEC; Precision Aerobatics 4S 2,200 mAh 30-60C LiPo V3 Radio: Hitec Flash 7 2.4 GHz transmitter; Hitec Optima 6 six-channel 2.4 GHz receiver; four Nexatec NXT 80 DSM servos Propeller: Vox 13 x 5 wood propeller for electric aircraft (included); Precision Aerobatics CNC-machined propeller adapter; Precision Aerobatics 2.17-inch carbon-fiber spinner Accessories and hardware: Thin-gauge Twisted Light extension lead; four Precision Aerobatics carbon-fiber extended servo arms; male and female Deans Ultra battery plugs; Precision Aerobatics carbon-fiber vortex generators (optional)

Pluses

• Two-piece, removable wing makes transport easy. • Lightweight, carbon-fiber-reinforced airframe is lightweight without sacrificing strength. • Painted fiberglass cowl. • Short, carbon-fiber pushrods allow for precise aircraft control. • Nice decal set. • Large battery hatch/canopy allows easy access. • Several optional accessories available. • Extremely wide flight envelope allows the XR-52 to fly from mild to wild!