Ruckus

Capt Kremen wrote on 01/09/2018:

Strengths: Depending on version purchased, (i.e.ARTF, Airframe Only, Complete RTF), a quick route into the air. It flies very well with no particularly bad habits. A good 'hack' sports low wing model follow-on from the 'Riot'.

Weaknesses: Reviews are always very subjective and what doesn't bother one flier, is of concern to another. For me the model if purchased as ARTF i.e. with Motor, ESC and servos is made down to a price and not up to the highest quality. Servos, their linkages and clevises as supplied exhibited a degree of slop and lack of resolution, why have a a good radio set and then spoil it with poor controls? Front wing bolts project into the flight battery LiPo area, require cutting and blind nuts covering to prevent LiPo chaffing. Supplied Motor is OK but not the best (bearings?), ditto the 40A ESC lacks airflow cooling. Supplied prop and spinner not balanced. U/C raked forward causes 'squirally' ground handling at times, especially during high speed taxying. Wheels could be larger for handling rough grass strips and the chinese metal axle bolts ... strong enough not to bend on those occasional less the perfect landings? Tailplane mylar hinges very stiff, replaced with 'proper' pin hinges for a dramatic lowering of elevator servo current. A lovely cockpit area but no pilot figure supplied!

Overall: I have enjoyed, (and continue to), flying the Max Thrust high wing 'Riot'with appropriate changes to supplied equipment. The 'Ruckus' (as supplied) employs the same main wing, tailplane, fin, undercarriage and motor/esc. Yes, these work but the model can be so much better and importantly more durable using just a few better components. I have subsequently fitted a 4-Max 700kv motor and flown the model on a 4cell LiPo pack. (Care in selecting a suitable size/shape is required as these may be a tight fit. Performance ,and probable long-term durability, was noticeably improved. UPDATE EDIT 07.10.18 Anyone with a first batch 'Ruckus' should check the 'Max Thrust' website 'Ruckus' page as they have published an addendum to the instructions. There were no air exit holes in the underside. This results in air pressure build up and the canopy hatch 'blowing off'! How do I know, it happened to me. Latest batches have exit air vent holes on the underside. UPDATE 29.10.18 After a reasonable number of flights now conducted, this is an update on my thoughts. The LiPo size and its security in the fuselage needs careful consideration. I've used a variety of packs, 3 & 4 cell. Whilst 4 cell did give a slightly more sprightly performance, I don't consider it essential plus squeezing in a smaller capacity but 4 cell pack reduces flight time. The u/c continues to give me some interesting taxying & take-offs unless very careful throttle is applied. I've now put the kit u/c on 'back-to-front' to improve the models squirrelling antics! I also fly a 'Riot' (basically same aircraft only high-wing), I find that model far more aerobatic and no problems taxying/take-offs, strange(?) For me, the 'Ruckus', an OK model but not outstanding.