Megatech Nitro Skyliner
The Megatech Nitro Skyliner ARF is a nice solid trainer that follows after the successful electric version Skyliner basic trainer (shop for it on eBay).
Its typical high wing trainer design with plenty of dihedral means that the model is very stable in the air, which is how every trainer needs to be to make learning to fly rc as easy and worry free as possible.
The nitro Skyliner comes ARF (Almost Ready To Fly) with a very short final assembly time, thanks to Megatech's unique 'Simple-7T' system; just 7 wing nuts are used to complete the model and a comprehensive manual instructs you every step of the way.
Even with no prior model building experience, you won't have much trouble with putting this airplane together.
The construction is from quality balsa and ply that makes for a very solid model airplane, and all linkage cutouts etc. are done for you as well as fuel tank installation.
The only things you need to provide for this ARF version are the motor and radio gear; the Skyliner is designed to take a '40' - '46' size engine and 4 channel radio set.
Megatech recommends their M-46 engine but other options include engines from manufacturers such as OS, one of the top glow plug engine manufacturers. The OS 46 LA series engine would be fine for this model; the 46 will give you a bit more power than the 40 and this is definitely the better size to go for.
A suitable 4 channel rc set could be something like the 4YF SkySport from Futaba, a very well respected rc manufacturer.
The 4YF SkySport has become a popular choice as a first radio set because it has all the features that you need, without being overloaded with ones that you'll never use. It's a solid design and has already proven itself to be very reliable and easy to use.
Megatech Nitro Skyliner features
- Nose Gear and linkages pre-mounted and adjusted
- All hinges glued and screw-pinned for maximum security
- All servo and switch cutouts are made and pre-drilled
- Throttle Linkage is installed and cut to length
Summary: the Megatech Nitro Skyliner ARF is a good solid trainer if you're looking for something that you can do a bit of work on yourself, rather than buying a completely RTF model airplane. Installation of engine and radio gear isn't difficult so long as you follow the manufacturer's advice and instructions.
With the larger 46 engine, the Skyliner will be a bit more responsive and be better equipped to handle aerobatic maneuvers.
NB: The full product review, in PDF, can be seen here.
Search for the Megatech Nitro Skyliner on eBay, it's not widely available now.
Related pages
Gas rc airplanes - general overview of gas planes, with examples.
Gas rc trainer airplanes - popular examples of other gas trainers.
