The ultimate guide to E-flite Night Radian 2.0m PNP (EFL36750)

The electric sailor Night Radian 2.0m from E-flite is an impressive model aircraft that is highly appealing to both beginners and experienced model aircraft. This model is particularly distinguished by its LED lighting that makes night flights a spectacular experience. In this detailed article we look at all aspects of the Night Radian by E-flite and give valuable insights for buyers.

Technical data and specifications

The E-flite Night Radian 2.0m PNP is equipped with high-quality components that ensure reliable flight performance.

The electric sailor comes in the PNP version (plug-and-play), which means that important components such as motor, speed controllers and servos are already installed. For complete flight readiness, the buyer only needs to add a compatible receiver, battery and transmitter.

Customer experiences and reviews

What pilots appreciate

Customer reviews for Night Radian are mostly positive. Many pilots especially praise:

• The impressive LED lighting that makes the model an eye-catcher during night flights
• The stable flight situation thanks to the integrated AS3X system
• Easy handling, which also facilitates entry
• The good visibility in the sky through the illuminated surfaces
• The robust design, which also well exceeds minor accidents

Experienced pilots highlight the versatility of the model. It is suitable both for cozy thermal flying and for more dynamic flight maneuvers. SAFE technology is described by beginners as helpful in learning flying, while advanced pilots estimate the possibility to disable this feature.

Critical aspects

Some customers also expressed criticism:

• The comparatively high purchase price
• Separate quality problems in the bonding of the support surfaces
• The need to purchase additional components separately
• Limited flight time of about 8 minutes at full engine power

Test results and flight performance

In numerous tests, the E-flite Night Radian convinced. The well-balanced flight characteristics are particularly highlighted. The brushless external rotor motor with 960 kV provides sufficient force to bring the sailor to a good starting height.

Increased power

With a fully charged 3S-LiPo with 2200 mAh, the model achieves a considerable climbing performance. In tests, a rise rate of about 45-60 degrees was measured, which is sufficient to reach within about one minute a height from which thermal sailing is possible. With full engine power, steep climbing flights are not a problem.

Flight times

Flight times vary greatly depending on flight style:

• For continuous engine use: about 8-10 minutes
• For mixed flight profile (rigs and slides): 15-20 minutes
• For predominant use as a sailor with only occasional motor use: up to 30 minutes

Experienced pilots report that the use of a higher quality 3S-LiPo with 2200-2500 mAh can significantly extend the flight time. In addition, the flight time can be significantly increased by skillful use of Thermik.

Material quality and durability

The Night Radian 2.0m consists mainly of robust EPO foam, which is both lightweight and resistant. The reinforcements at critical points such as the fuselage and the wing attachments increase the stability of the model.

The built-in components such as motor, speed controllers and servos come from E-flite and spectrum, which speaks for good quality. The LED illumination is fixedly installed in the wings and can be controlled by a separate switch.

The durability of the electronics is particularly positive. The 30A controller offers sufficient reserves and works reliably without excessive heating even in longer flights.

Transport and storage

Thanks to its modular design, the transport of the Night Radian is relatively easy. The supporting surfaces can be separated from the hull for transport, which significantly reduces the space requirement.

Transport dimensions in the disassembled state:

• hull length: approx. 1135 mm
• Surface parts: approx. 1000 mm per half

A special transport protection for the electric sailer is not included, which is why many pilots invest in a suitable transport bag. Alternatively, some owners use self-made protective cases made of foam or fabric.

Spare parts supply

The spare part supply for the E-flite Night Radian 2.0m PNP is good. Horizon Hobby as a manufacturer offers an extensive range of spare parts:

• Supporting surfaces
• hull parts
• Headings
• Electronic components (motor, controller, servos)
• LED lighting sets
• Small parts such as linkages and linkages

The availability of the spare parts is generally good, but with special components such as the LED controller, supply bottlenecks may occasionally occur. Here it is recommended to maintain preventively critical spare parts.

Target group and suitability

The illuminated electric sailor is aimed at different user groups:

For beginners:

• Thanks to the optional SAFE technology well suited
• Stable flight situation facilitates learning basic flight maneuvers
• Robust construction forgives smaller errors

For advanced:

• Versatile flight characteristics for different flight styles
• Good thermal performance for extended sailing
• Possibility of night flights offers new experiences

For experienced pilots:

• As a relaxed second model for cozy evening flights
• Especially for lovers of illuminated flight models
• Possibility of creative light shows on night flights

Construction and Quality of Guidance

The assembly of the Night Radian is even possible for less experienced model builders. Since it is a PNP model, most components are already installed.

Necessary steps for completion:

1. Assembly of the control units
2. Installation of the receiver
3. Connecting the supporting surfaces to the fuselage
4. Installation of the flight battery
5. Programming of the transmitter

The included instructions are detailed and well illustrated. It gradually leads through the assembly and also contains information on the correct setting of the center of gravity and recommendations for the rudder deflections.

The assembly time for experienced model builders is about 1-2 hours, while beginners should expect 2-3 hours. Special tools are not required, a standard set of tools for model construction is sufficient.

Community support and resources

An active community has formed around the Night Radian. In various model building forums and social media owners exchange experiences, tips and modifications.

Popular points:

• RC-Groups Forum with your own thread to the Night Radian
• YouTube channels with flight videos and tips
• Facebook groups especially for e-flite models
• Instagram hashtags with impressive night flight recordings

Many pilots share their experience with different types of batteries, receivers and transmitters, as well as tips for optimizing flight performance. The exchange on successful modifications and improvements to the basic model is particularly valuable.

Alternatives and competition products

There are some alternatives to Night Radian on the market for electric sailing models with a 2-meter range:

Multiplex EasyGlider Pro Electric:

• Comparable range but other flight concept
• Higher robustness due to reinforced plastic hull
• Lower equipment, cheaper price
• No integrated lighting

Volantex Phoenix 2000:

• More affordable alternative with similar span
• A little easier processing
• Less electronic features (no AS3X/SAFE)
• Good suitability for beginners

HobbyZone Conscendo Evolution:

• From the same manufacturer (Horizon Hobby)
• Smaller span, more compact transport dimensions
• Also equipped with SAFE technology
• No focus on night flight

Compared to these alternatives, the E-flite Night Radian stands out mainly due to its lighting and high-quality electronic equipment. If you are looking for a model for impressive night flights, you can hardly find a comparable alternative in this size class.

Value for money

The electric sailor is in the middle to upper price range for 2-meter sailors. The higher price is explained by:

• The integrated LED lighting
• The high-quality brushless motor
• The pre-installed electronics (controllers, servos)
• SAFE/AS3X technology

Taking into account the additional costs for transmitters, receivers and batteries, the total investment is not insignificant. Compared to cheaper alternatives, Night Radian offers significant added value through its lighting function and high-quality equipment.

In the long term, the higher purchase price is relativized by the good spare part supply and the robust design, which ensures a longer service life.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Battery optimization

Choosing the right battery has a great influence on flight performance:

• 3S LiPo with 2200-2500 mAh offers the best weight and flight time ratio
• High-quality batteries with 30C or more ensure better engine performance
• The use of smart batteries with telemetry function allows the monitoring of battery status during flight

Focus fine tuning

The manufacturer's recommended center of gravity of 80 mm (±5 mm) behind the front edge of the wing is a good starting point. Many experienced pilots, however, experiment:

• A slightly head load center (75-78 mm) increases the stability for beginners
• A slightly cocky focus (82-85 mm) improves thermal performance

Adjust LED lighting

The installed LED lighting can be modified with some skill:

• Additional LEDs on the control unit improve visibility
• Colored gel filters can be used for individual color effects
• A programmable LED controller allows dynamic light patterns

Improving flight performance

• The rudder rudder fittings should be customized:
  • For thermal flying: moderate failures with 10-15% Expo
  • For dynamic flying: larger outputs with 20-30% Expo
• The engine power can be optimized by adapting the timing settings to the controller
• Aerodynamic improvements such as smoother transitions between hull and supporting surface can increase sliding performance

Frequent questions and problems

"How can I extend the flight time?"

The flight time can be optimized by various measures:

• Use of a higher-grade battery with greater capacity
• Reduction of engine life by skillful use of Thermik
• Adapt flight style: gentle climbing flights instead of full-gas continuous flights
• Optimization of the focus for better sliding performance

"The LEDs no longer work, what can I do?"

In case of problems with LED lighting, the following steps should be carried out:

• Checking on/off switch
• Control of connections to the LED controller
• Checking the cable between receiver and LED controller
• For defective LEDs: targeted repair of the affected areas or replacement of the LED strip

"How do I fly the Night Radian best at night?"

For safe and successful night flights:

• Always fly off a well-known, barrier-free terrain
• Be familiar with the model before dark
• Simplify orientation by different illumination colors on top and bottom
• Use a helper for observation
• Testing the range of remote control

"Can I fly the Night Radian without SAFE technology?"

Yes, the E-flite Night Radian 2.0m can also be flown without SAFE technology:

• With a compatible spectrum receiver, SAFE can be activated or disabled
• If a non-spectrum receiver is used, the SAFE function is omitted
• The flight behaviour can also be controlled easily without SAFE, but requires more pilot experience

"What do I have to consider during the first flight?"

For a successful first flight it is recommended:

• Green review of all rows for correct function and knockouts
• Focus exactly on setting instructions
• Start with light wind, ideally against the wind
• Run gentle litter with slightly ascending flight path
• First fly with low dual rate
• win height before more complex maneuvers are tried out

Conclusion

The E-flite Night Radian 2.0m PNP is an impressive model aircraft that convinces with its LED lighting and good flying characteristics. It is suitable for various pilots – from ambitious beginners to experienced pilots.

Although the purchase price is above some alternatives, the quality of the installed components, the versatility of use and especially the unique opportunity for spectacular night flights justify the investment. With the right care and possible optimizations, this electric sailor will be happy for a long time and will enable impressive flying experiences.

If you are looking for a reliable, well-equipped electric sailor with a special unique feature, the illuminated glider from E-flite definitely does nothing wrong.