E-flite DRACO 2.0m Smart BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL12550)

E-flite DRACO 2.0m Smart BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL12550): The ultimate review for buyers

The model aircraft E-flite DRACO 2.0m Smart BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL12550) fascinated with its impressive optics, innovative technology and practical features. This aircraft is not only a real highlight for advanced pilots, but also convinces beginners who are looking for the perfect mix of performance, realism and easy handling. In the following article, all aspects of this model will be discussed in detail – from technical data to material quality to user questions and alternatives.

General technical data and facts

Customer reviews and reviews

The response of buyers is mostly very positive. Many praise the realistic flight behaviour and the extremely detailed design. The robust chassis construction is particularly highlighted: The high-quality, licensed shock absorbers also effectively cushion rough landings on uneven terrain. The spectacular lighting system, the clear cockpit window with pilot and the illuminated dashboard create a unique scale experience and bring the look of the original impressive to the model flight area.

Especially frequently, users report the following positive experiences:

• Very short installation time and thought-out toolless assembly.
• Impressive STOL properties (Short Take Off and Landing): Start and landing on shortest distances and difficult backgrounds can be reliably achieved.
• Extremely quiet flight behaviour by AS3X and optional SAFE Select support – ideal for wind and low-skilled pilots.
• The telemetry functions ensure a safe flight feeling, as battery voltage, current, temperature and other values are transmitted live to the transmitter.

It is often pointed out to the size: The DRACO 2.0m is a real eye-catcher on every airfield, but for beginners it is not too conscious or unwieldy.

Overview of test results

Expert reviews and test flights show that the model achieves best scores in several areas:

• Flight behaviour: Superior stability, very sensitively controllable, locked SAFE functions facilitate entry and difficult situations.
• Performance: The powerful drive ensures excellent climbing performance and also with heavier batteries the performance remains impressive.
• Land properties: Thanks to effectively working landing flaps and shock absorbers, the model scores on short or bumpy slopes even in demanding landing maneuvers.
• Function: The toolless assembly and disassembly saves enormous time and makes the model particularly transport-friendly.

There is some criticism for the price which, in view of the technology offered, is usually considered justified.

Material quality

The E-flite Draco scores with a very robust design: The hull material consists of reinforced EPO foam, which puts bumps and hard landings amazingly well away. The SCALE details are made of high-quality plastics and metals, in particular the chassis is distinguished by solid components and functional shock absorbers. The servos with metal gear and the LED lighting are also designed for longevity.

Flight times: How long does DRACO stay in the air?

With a recommended 6S LiPo battery, the model remains in the air between 6 and 10 minutes, depending on the flight style. Quiet round flights with a low gas content bring longer flight times, while dynamic manoeuvres or very many start and landings consume more energy. The telemetry transmission makes energy management particularly secure, as warnings appear directly in the transmitter.

Increased power – power and dynamics

The built-in Brushless motor (5065-525Kv) paired with a 100-ampere smart controller ensures a powerful rise. Low climbing flights are easily possible, especially with light batteries. The model remains very precisely controllable over the entire flight range and shows hardly any peculiarities in border areas.

Transportability: Practical despite size

Despite the span of 2 meters, the pilot is transport-friendly. The two-part support surfaces are fixed with simple thumb screws and can be detached without tools in seconds. As a result, the model also fits into smaller vehicles and can be stored in a space-saving manner.

Spare parts supply: What happens in case of damage?

Excellent solution: The spare part supply is wide. All relevant components such as support surfaces, suspension parts, fuselage segments, support surface connectors, illumination and scale components are available as individual parts. Various dealers as well as the manufacturer themselves always offer a well sorted spare parts warehouse and fast shipping.

Target group: For whom is the DRACO 2.0m suitable?

The model depends on

• advanced beginners who have gained first experience with larger models,
• experienced RC pilots who value realism and technology,
• STOL fans and pilots who want to fly on short or inaccessible slopes,
• Scale lovers who appreciate detail and functionality.

Anyone who has never controlled an RC aircraft should first practice with smaller or simpler models before he ventures to this class.

Construction and Guidance: How long does the assembly take?

The assembly is exceptionally simple for a model of this size: thanks to clever plug-in connections, pre-assembled components and toolless mounting, the DRACO 2.0m is ready for flight in about 20-30 minutes. The accompanying guide is regarded as exemplary: it is richly illustrated, logically structured and available in both German and English. Newcomers are also well suited.

Community support: Help and exchange

The community around the DRACO 2.0m is very active. In forums, Facebook groups and on YouTube there are numerous reports of experience, construction and flight tips, as well as suggestions for modification and help with technical questions. Users benefit from the community's collective knowledge, especially in individual adaptations or faulty components.

Alternative products: competition in comparison

In the field of large scale STOL aircraft, there are some competitive models that are considered alternatives. Here is a comparison:

The DRACO 2.0m sets standards with attention, telemetry and smart electronics. The other models partly point with cheaper prices or other design directions, but rarely offer the same range of functions – especially in the field of telemetry and scale-oriented shock absorbers.

Value for money

Of course, the E-flite DRACO 2.0m moves in the upper price segment. Given the equipment – high-quality drive, smart controller, telemetry, durable components, massive scale details and lighting – the price-performance ratio remains very good. Many users confirm that they rarely possessed a model with comparable realism and functionality.

Detailed technical report: tips, tricks and optimizations

1. Battery positioning: Users recommend fine tuning the focus with different battery positions. Depending on the flight style, it is recommended to place the battery further forward (for more stability) or further backward (for more agility).

Two. landing flap programming: The flaps can be programmed step by step. It is recommended to set up at least two flap positions (Start/Landung) and the easy admixing of depth in order to prevent a buoyancy during the buoyancy.

3. foam protection: For the sensitive surfaces, it is recommended to use foam pads or special support pockets during transport.

4. Telemetry use: Smart technology provides real-time data on the flight battery and drive – it is essential to actively use it at every start and set thresholds for warnings at the transmitter.

Five. Carriage: The shock absorbers occasionally control and, if necessary, reluctantly, as they provide heavy loads for airfields with rough surfaces.

6. Additional lighting: With simple extensions, the lighting system can be individually adapted, for example via additional flashers for even more realism in scale operation.

7. Spare parts in stock: Particularly in the case of heavily stressed parts, such as propellers, suspension struts or flap servos, a small spare part range is recommended in the own tool case.

What could buyers still want to know?

• Insurance question: For models of this size a model flight insurance is advisable and even prescribed in many countries.
• Compatibility: Not every 6S battery fits into the battery shaft – best compare the measurements beforehand.
• Transmitter compatibility: A spectrum transmitter with at least 7 channels and telemetry connection maximizes the possibilities.
• Outdoor operation: Thanks to its robust design and STOL properties, DRACO 2.0m is also suitable for use on meadows or temporary airfields.

Questions and problems from practice – and solutions

Question: My flight model is strongly moving to the left when it comes to gas. What to do?
Solution: In this case, easy counter-steering (side raster) can be used at the transmitter.

Question: The battery is empty after a few minutes, what is it?
Solution: Often too small or old batteries are the cause. Pay attention to suitable weight, capacity and load condition. Reduce solid gas phases.

Question: When the landing flaps are extended, the model increases sharply.
Solution: Program deep admixture, if necessary let the flaps run out more slowly.

Question: The controller reads after switching on, but the model does not react.
Solution: Check if the transmitter is properly bound and the neutral gas in the setup is correct.

Question: Can I also use the extensive telemetry with other transmitters?
Solution: Full functionality is available only with spectrum AirWare transmitters, other transmitters may only display standard values.

Conclusion

The DRACO 2.0m BNF Basic meets almost all the wishes of ambitious model pilots: excellent material quality, a maximum of scale details, impressive flight performance and innovative technology make this aircraft a milestone in the RC world. Thanks to sophisticated stabilization, practical telemetry and easy installation, the model is also suitable for advanced beginners. Anyone who places value on value stability, accuracy of detail and holistic functionality finds a model that leaves hardly any wishes open – and that ensures many years of flight fun.