E-flite/Horizon Hobby UMX F-27 Evolution BNF Basic
A micro pusher-prop jet with flight stabilization
The first 3S-compatible UMX offering, the new UMX
F-27 Evolution from E-flite is touted as being the fastest prop-driven ultra-micro airplane yet. Molded out of durable EPO foam, the UMX F-27 also features AS3X flight stability and SAFE Select technology, so it’s extremely easy to fly. I have flown many of the past iterations of the F-27 (starting with the first ParkZone F-27Q Stryker 180 in 2011), and this new UMX has a lot to offer for its compact size. Let’s see what’s in the box.
UNIQUE FEATURES
As mentioned, the UMX F-27 is made out of durable EPO molded foam, and it comes equipped with a rubber damage-resistant nose cone to keep it looking good even after your roughest landings. The model has a one-piece airframe design and everything comes installed and ready to go. It comes equipped with a Spektrum 2.4GHz receiver that binds to your 5-channel DSMX/ DSM2 transmitter. Being a
BNF Basic model, you do have to supply your own E-flite 3S 300mAh LiPo to complete the package. A molded batterycompartment hatch cover is held in place with magnets.
Also installed are two 2.3g servos and a brushless 180-size 3000Kv outrunner motor. The speed control is incorporated in the receiver.
The instructions come with a chart to show the proper setup for various transmitters, and I used the information to quickly set up my Spektrum DX9. Because it has AS3X and the
SAFE Select features, the UMX F-27 requires an auxiliary channel assigned to a position switch. Starting with a new model memory, the model type was set for Airplane and I then assigned the Gear (channel 5) to the B switch on the top left corner of the transmitter. For the dual rates (elevator and aileron), I set it to 70% and the Expo to 30%. Once properly set up, the B switch controls the flight-mode function. There are two flight-mode settings: Switch positions 0 or 1 are for SAFE mode, and position 2 is for
Acro mode. SAFE mode (receiver LED red) limits bank and pitch to help prevent new pilots from overcontrolling the model. It helps dampens any wind forces and provides a smoother flight response. When the control sticks are centered, the self-leveling feature is activated. With B switch in position 2 (with receiver LED green), there is no bank and pitch limiting, so this setting offers unlimited flight performance while dampening for wind forces is still active. This setting is for experienced RC pilots.
IN THE AIR
The UMX F-27 has finger notches molded in its underside so that you can easily grip the model for hand launches. For the first flight, I set the flight model to position 1 and easily tossed the model directly into the wind. As soon as the model was free
of my launch hand, I brought my hand to the control stick and advanced the throttle smoothly, so the model started to climb out. Average flight time with a full charge is about five minutes.
GENERAL FLIGHT PERFORMANCE
Stability: In either flight mode setting, the UMX F-27 Evolution with AS3X is extremely stable and flies smoothly even in moderate wind conditions.
Tracking: Even without rudder control, the model tracks nicely. Its dual vertical fins give it nice yaw stability, from very low speed all the way up to full power.
Aerobatics: Being a pusher-prop jet design without rudder control, the F-27 is still a lively sport flier. With the flight mode set for Acro, it rolls precisely and pitch response is quick. With its quick and on-track rolls, Figure-8s are a piece of cake, as are loops with a quick roll or two at the top. Inverted flight also is easy to perform.
Glide and stall performance: As with most super-lightweight fliers, stalls are almost unnoticeable, with the exception of a loss in altitude. In calm conditions, you can easily glide the model down to a landing at your feet, but with any substantial wind, you will need to maintain power to properly penetrate and maintain control.
PILOT DEBRIEFING
For me, the best part of the UMX F-27 Evolution is its amazing speed. It really is a quick and fun plane to fly, especially during low-level passes. It has great response in the Acro mode and stays right on track the whole time.
OF ALL THE F-27S THAT I’VE FLOWN, THE NEW UMX F-27 EVOLUTION HAS TO BE THE MOST FUN.