The Greatest Trainer Ever Built?

2009-05-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Introduction!

The NexSTAR is perhaps the most innovative trainer model to hit the market in history. With its breakthrough features such as anti-stall/anti-spin control extensions, pivot-flex wing bolt mounting system, automatic flight stabilization (AFS) and more it is no wonder there are several patents pending on technology used in this model.

So you ask what is all the fuss about? What separates this first time trainer model from the rest of the pack? Well, I'm going to explain what the NexSTAR is all about when it comes to features and then show you how these features help the beginner.

First off I'll go into a general light overview about the NexSTAR and then discuss later in the review more detail about each specific feature. I'll also go over the very brief assembly process for this plane but please don't blink or you will miss it!

NexSTAR Construction:

The NexSTAR is constructed of wood and is covered by heat shrink film. The trim is already applied before you take it out of the box. There isn't a single decal that needs to be applied! Upon inspection everything appeared to be glued well and very sturdy. The NexSTAR comes ready to take on the abuse a beginning pilot might toss at it.

A Beginners Dream:

For the beginner the NexSTAR represents a practically foolproof path to becoming a successful pilot. The plane is EASILY assembled in 20 minutes or less from the time you open the box. You can charge it up and take it out to the field and be flying the NexSTAR in no time at all. Fortunately once you get to the field the NexSTAR has a wide array of features to ensure your success. (Important note: Always seek a qualified pilot before attempting to fly your NexSTAR or any trainer)

The very first step for those who have a computer though is to install the included RealFlight Flight Simulator program. Once installed a beginner can actually fly the NexSTAR before ever having put a single drop of fuel in the motor. Practicing on the simulator helps ensure faster learning and success for any beginner without risking your model. To have the exact model on the simulator which you will actually be flying at the field is a huge plus and it is all included in the NexSTAR package.

The other innovative features that shine on the NexSTAR are the anti-spin airfoil extensions that come attached to the leading edge of the wings. This clever addition helps the NexSTAR remain stable at very slow speeds and keeps the plane from stalling or spinning.

Also included are speed brakes which can later be removed as the beginning pilot progresses. These brakes help shorten the landing approaches and keep speed down while learning.

Next is the automatic flight stabilization system (AFS™) which literally levels the plane on both the pitch and roll axis when you release the sticks! This is built in already on the NexSTAR and the sensitivity can be adjusted up or down as a pilot becomes comfortable.

Last is the ability to "hop up" the NexSTAR by simply removing the airfoil extensions, speed brake flaps and optionally installing dual aileron servos and modifying the ailerons to actually have radio controlled flaps!

The manual is very complete and thorough. It contains step by step instructions on assembly, setup and flying with detailed photos. The box also includes an instructional video on DVD which you should watch before beginning the project. You may view the manual in PDF format by clicking the icon below this paragraph. There is much more to the Hobbico NexSTAR so let's get through the super fast assembly and discuss the features in detail and then head out to the field and test fly this plane!

SUMMARY

NexSTAR Select 46 size trainer not only raises the bar as far as RC airplane trainers are concerned but also provides an unprecedented opportunity for newcomers to get involved in this wonderful hobby. With its unique aerodynamic stabilization features, automatic flight stabilization (AFS), sleek looks, excellent flight characteristics, included flight simulator software and super fast building make the NexSTAR literally one of the absolute best trainer aircraft in production today.

Nexstar Select

The Greatest Trainer Ever Built?