Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

[garyjet]

Could the Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm be hand launched? At our field the grass might be to long for this landing gear.

[CT]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Could the Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm be hand launched? At our field the grass might be to long for this landing gear.

Wow, I would have to say no. This bird takes an abnormal amount of surfaced runway to achieve t/o speed normally, but having never tried hand launching cant say for sure. Would be very surprised if it worked.
CT

[fredmdbud]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Yes, it can be hand-launched, especially if you reduce the weight by removing the landing gear.  I've been able to hand-toss my V1.

Here's a video of one being handlaunched:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQp1q1n7RrA

[garyjet]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Yes, it can be hand-launched, especially if you reduce the weight by removing the landing gear.  I've been able to hand-toss my V1.

Here's a video of one being handlaunched:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQp1q1n7RrA

Thanks for the the info now the big question what is the difference between the V1 and the V2...thrust vs weight

[CT]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Yes, it can be hand-launched, especially if you reduce the weight by removing the landing gear.  I've been able to hand-toss my V1.

Here's a video of one being handlaunched:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQp1q1n7RrA

Dam! Would never thought this bird could be h/l. What size Lipo used?
CT

[fredmdbud]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

I've used both single 6S and serially-connected 2x3S batteries. Just adjust battery position to maintain CG.

Apart from the EDF unit and motor, then only differences between the V1 & V2 are the removable wings, separate flaps, and ball links on the stabilators. Not much of a weight difference there. The V1 also used a 6-blade fan.

If you have >1:1 thrust-to-weight ratio at launch, the plane will practically fly out of your hand at full throttle.

[Aros]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Yep I used to hand toss my V1 (same overall airframe and weight as the V2). It's not that hard once you remove all of the LG. It's not a simple toss, you really have to put some muscle into it but it's entirely possible.

The video is a good indication of how to do it properly. 10+ degree AoA into a good head wind and give it a level, vigorous toss and off she goes!

[Alpha]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Hand toss on the V2 is possible, I've done with with an Admiral 6s 5000mAh 50c, with the landing gear removed. Strong, level toss into a slight headwind, on high rates.

[Aros]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

Plus the empty wheel compartments from the mains act as a perfect grip location!

[Jkeyser86]

RE: Freewing F/A-18E Hornet V2 90mm

This is a V1 in the video but with a light 6s 4000mah battery you can just let it go when made light enough. Takes a certain skill level obviously. Not a 100% sure this can be done with the V2 as the V1 seems much lighter but the V2 does have more thrust so you never know. Either way I wont be trying what this guy does in the video with either my V1 or V2 but if your good enough then what hay. Enjoy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--jp84KFbbU