The ultimate buyer: E-flite Habu SS 70mm EDF Jet BNF Basic

Are you looking for a powerful aerodynamic model jet that is suitable for both beginners and experienced pilots? The Habu SS (Super Sport) 70mm EDF Jet BNF Basic from E-flite with SAFE Select and AS3X technology could be the right choice for you. In this in-depth purchaser, we analyse all the important aspects of this impressive sports jet and give you valuable information that will help you with your purchase decision.

Technical data and specifications

Before we go into detail, here is an overview of the most important technical data of the E-flite Habu SS Sport-Jets:

The special at the Habu SS Sportjet

The E-flite Habu SS 70mm Electro-Impellerjet is a further development of the popular Habu STS model and offers significantly improved flight characteristics. The model is characterized by an almost unlimited vertical gradient, higher speed and advanced art skills.

The unique fuselage design ensures excellent handling at low speeds, making this jet one of the easiest to fly Impeller models ever. This aircraft is based on the legendary Habu platform, which is considered one of the best EDF sports jet designs ever.

Customer reviews and reviews

Positive experiences

Many users praise the extraordinary flying characteristics of the Habu sports jet. Particular emphasis is placed on:

• The impressive stability even in adverse weather conditions
• Easy handling for pilots with limited EDF experience
• The excellent gliding performance, which provides enough time for safe landing in case of engine failure
• The sturdy construction, which also makes small landfall well

An experienced pilot reports: "After over 50 flights with this model, I am still delighted with the combination of stability and agility. Even with stronger wind, the jet can be precisely controlled."

Critical aspects

Not all experiences are consistently positive. Some users complain:

• The quality of individual small parts, especially the suspension lock
• The relatively high purchase price compared to similar models
• The power consumption for full gas that significantly shortens flight time

Test results and flight performance

Increased power

The vertical performance of the Super Sport Impellerjet is impressive. With a 6S battery, the model achieves almost unlimited climbing capability and can easily execute vertical maneuvers. In tests, a rise rate of about 45 meters per second was measured, which is exceptional for a model of this size class.

Flight times

The flight time varies depending on the battery used and flight style:

• With 4S 3200mAh: about 4-5 minutes with aggressive flying style, up to 7 minutes with moderate flying
• With 6S 4000mAh: approx. 5-6 minutes with aggressive flying style, up to 8-9 minutes with moderate flying

It is recommended to provide several batteries for longer flight sessions.

Material quality and durability

The Habu Impellerjet is made of high-quality reinforced EPO foam, which offers a good balance between weight and stability. In particular, the fuselage reinforcements at strategically important points ensure increased resistance.

The pre-installed components such as motor, ESC and servos are of high quality and designed for intensive use. The cabling is neatly laid and well protected, which increases the ease of maintenance.

Transportability and Storage

The electric jet can easily be separated into its main components for transport. The support surfaces can be separated from the hull, which allows transport in a medium-sized car without any problems. For transport, a special transport bag or box is recommended to avoid damage.

During storage, attention should be paid to dry conditions, since moisture can damage the EPO material. A hanging mounting of the fuselage relieves the chassis and extends its service life.

Spare parts supply

The spare part supply for the E-flite Habu SS 70mm EDF Jet is excellent. Horizon Hobby as a parent company of E-flite offers a comprehensive range of original spare parts that can be ordered via the specialist trade or directly online.

Particularly frequently asked parts are:

• Chassis components
• Propeller/impeller leaves
• Servos
• Rechargeable batteries

Most spare parts are available within a few days, which ensures a minimum downtime during repairs.

Target group and suitability

The Habu Super Sport is suitable for various pilot types:

For beginners in the EDF world:

Thanks to the SAFE Select technology and the excellent slow flight characteristics, this jet is an ideal start-up model in the world of Impellerjets. The stabilisation functions enable gentle entry and reduce the risk of costly accidents.

For experienced pilots:

Advanced pilots estimate versatility and dynamic flight behavior. With deactivated stabilization, the model offers full aerobic capabilities and reacts precisely to tax inputs.

For art flight pilots:

Improved motorization and aerodynamic design enable sophisticated art flight maneuvers such as rollers, loopings, turns and even hovering.

Assembly and commissioning

Assembly time

Since it is a BNF (Bind-and-Fly) Basic model, the assembly is minimal. Most components are already installed on the factory. The typical assembly time is about 30-45 minutes and includes:

• Attaching the supporting surfaces to the fuselage
• Installation of the height control unit
• Device of the transmitter and binding with the receiver
• Attach and secure the battery

Quality of instruction

The accompanying guide is detailed and well illustrated. It contains:

• Step by step Installation instructions with pictures
• Entering the model and focus
• Programming instructions for different spectrum transmitters
• Troubleshooting and maintenance tips

The guide is available in several languages, including German translation.

Community support and online resources

To the sport jet there is an active community that offers support, tips and exchange:

• Special forums for e-flite models at RCGroups and other platforms
• YouTube channels with flight videos, maintenance tips and tuning leads
• Facebook groups for direct exchange with other owners

These community resources are particularly valuable for beginners who want to benefit from the experience of other pilots.

Comparison with competition models

Freewing Avanti S 80mm EDF

Advantages over the Habu SS:

• Larger 80mm Impeller for more thrust
• Higher maximum speed
• Eleganter scale design

Cons:

• Higher price
• More demanding flight behaviour at low speeds
• Higher power consumption

FMS Futura V2 80mm EDF

Advantages over the Habu SS:

• Robuster construction with more composite materials
• Longer flight time with comparable battery size
• More detailed finish

Cons:

• Complex assembly
• Less precise slow flight behavior
• Low suitability for art flight

HobbyKing Durafly EFX Racer

Advantages over the Habu SS:

• Significantly lower price
• Compacter dimensions
• Easy transport

Cons:

• No advanced stabilization like SAFE/AS3X
• Low component quality
• Limited spare part supply

Value for money

With a price level of about 300 euros (without battery and transmitter), the Habu SS is positioned in the middle price segment for high-quality EDF jets of this size. Compared to similar models, it offers an excellent value for money, especially when considering the advanced stabilization systems and the high-quality basic equipment.

The investment in this sports jet is especially worthwhile for pilots who are looking for a versatile model that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users and is happy for a long period of time.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Flight optimization

Priority setting:The ideal center of gravity is about 75-80mm behind the wing front edge. A precise setting significantly improves flight characteristics and avoids unpleasant surprises during the first flight.

Rudder fittings:

• For beginners: Reduced outputs (about 70% of recommended values) and 30% Expo
• For advanced: Full outputs with 40-50% Expo for precise control

Battery positioning:Experiment with the exact position of the battery to optimally adjust the focus. Even small changes can have a significant impact on flight behaviour.

Technical improvements

Chassis upgrades:The standard suspension legs can be replaced by more robust metal versions, which is particularly advantageous on uneven slopes.

Engine cooling optimisation:Attaching additional cooling openings at strategic points can reduce the engine temperature and extend the service life of the electronic components.

Impellertuning:By precisely balancing the impeller, vibrations can be reduced and efficiency increased.

Maintenance tips

Regular checks:

• Check the screw connections after every day of flight
• Control the servos on free running and correct neutral position
• Inspect the Impeller for damages or foreign bodies

Battery management:Store your LiPo batteries at about 50% charge and regularly check the cell voltage difference. Good battery care not only extends the life of the batteries, but also increases safety.

Seasonal preparation:Before long flight breaks, all moving parts should be slightly oiled and the model should be stored in a dry, dust-free space.

Frequent questions and problems

"My Habu has trouble lifting. What can I do?"

Check the following points:

• Is the focus correctly set?
• Are the rudder rudders symmetrical?
• Is the battery capacity sufficient and the battery fully charged?
• Is the runway long enough and has a suitable surface?

Often, the problem lies with a center of gravity lying too far behind or with low engine power with a battery not completely charged.

"The engine of the E-flite Jet runs unround or suddenly loses power"

This can have several causes:

• Check the connections between ESC, engine and battery
• Check the Impeller for damages or foreign bodies
• Measure the cell voltages of the battery (replace battery with imbalance)
• Check the programming of the ESC

In case of persistent problems, a reset of the ESC or an update of the firmware can help.

"The AS3X stabilization does not work as expected"

Make sure that:

• The receiver has been correctly calibrated
• The model is kept absolutely calm during switching on
• The Gain settings are suitable for your flight conditions
• The servos run freely and there are no blockages

A new calibration of the receiver solves problems with stabilization in many cases.

"Can I also run my Habu SS with other stations as a spectrum?"

In principle, you need a spectrum-compatible transmitter because the preinstalled AR631 receiver is designed for the DSMX/DSM2 protocol. Alternatively, you can:

• Exchange the recipient for a model of your preferred brand
• Use a protocol converter (but does not work with all stabilization functions)

Note that the SAFE functionality may be lost during a receiver change.

Conclusion: For whom is the E-flite Habu Sportjet suitable?

The E-flite Habu SS (Super Sport) 70mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with SAFE Select and AS3X is a versatile and powerful model that can give both beginners and experienced pilots a lot of pleasure. Thanks to the unique combination of stabilization technology and dynamic flight behavior, it offers a gentle entry into the world of Impellerjets and at the same time enough potential for advanced flight maneuvers.

Particularly noteworthy are the excellent slow flight properties, good material quality and well-thought construction. The possibility to experiment with different battery configurations opens up additional adjustment options.

While the purchase price may initially appear high, the longevity and the broad operational capability justify this investment. With the right handling and regular maintenance, this jet will provide exciting flying experiences for many years.

If you are looking for an EDF jet that doesn’t overwhelm beginners and does not underwrite experienced pilots, the Habu SS is an excellent choice that you will rarely regret.