E-flite Radian XL 2.6M PNP (EFL5575)

E-flite Radian XL 2.6M PNP (EFL5575): The ultimate guide for buyers

The E-flite Radian XL 2.6M PNP (EFL5575) is a popular model in the world of large sailors and electric model aircraft. Many pilots are devastating from their flight characteristics, the gentle gliding flight and the possibility to play with winds. For those who are looking for an extraordinary sailing experience, this aircraft offers many advantages. In this article you will learn everything you need to know before buying – from the technical key data to customer reviews to valuable tips for successful use.

Overview of technical data and facts

To get an overview quickly, we have compiled the most important specifications in a clear table:

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Customer reviews are mostly very positive. Many pilots praise the flight behaviour, the pleasant handling in flight as on the ground and the good processing. Here are some summarized and analyzed opinions from the model flight community:

Flight properties:
Most users report that the E-flite Radian XL is especially beginner-friendly, but also offers experienced pilots a relaxed thermal flight experience. The aircraft is described as “wonderful sliding” and “stable against turbulence”. Even with light thermals, long flight times can be achieved. The large wings convey a majestic flight picture and make the model visible even at a greater distance.

Construction and first flight:
According to experience reports, assembly is simple and quick. The guide is praised as clearly understandable and illustrated. On average, a model builder needs between 30 and 60 minutes until the first flight – provided you bring the appropriate remote control and the recommended battery.

Processing and material:
The EPO foam construction ensures robustness while at the same time low weight. Dropping off or unfortunate landings are thus usually pulled away and small damage can be easily repaired. Overall, the material quality is assessed as high quality.

Flight times:
Depending on the battery used, users report flight times between 30 minutes and over an hour, if you use the thermal system and use the engine in an economical manner. With pure motor flight, 20-25 minutes are realistic, with thermal and good conditions but much more possible.

Ascending power:
Brushless motorization brings the model to thermal height in a few seconds. Users indicate that climbing rates of about 4-6 m/s are possible, which is quite remarkable for a sailor of this size.

Transport and storage:
Thanks to removable support surfaces and robust foam, the model is ready for transport quickly. Many pilots stowed the aircraft in the car interior without having to disassemble tools. A suitable transport case is optionally available.

Parts and accessories:
E-flite and many dealers offer a wide range of spare parts – from servos to wings to hulls. The spare parts supply is rated as very good, and this makes it easy to fix damage after prolonged use.

Community support:
In internet forums, social media and on video platforms there are numerous tips, video leads and reviews. The exchange in German-speaking model flight forums is particularly popular.

Test results and independent opinions

Independent testers have undergone a detailed examination of the large sailor. The focus is on flight properties, quality and value for money.

Flight impressions:
In the test, the model already shows its kindness in the hand start. The control commands are implemented precisely. With moderate motor use, the aircraft rises calmly and straight without breaking out. In the glide flight, the Radian XL impresses with its slow flight characteristics. Even beginners can handle the control.

Critical points:
Some testers note that the model is slightly wind-sensitive due to its size – with strong wind, flight experience is recommended. The landing requires some space and timing, as the model slides relatively far.

Conclusion of the tester:
Convincing performance, wide range, high-quality grace and relaxed construction – the Radian XL regularly receives best notes and recommendations as "therical slider of the extra class".

Quality of materials and construction

The aircraft is mainly made from EPO foam, making it particularly durable and lightweight. The surfaces are extra reinforced, for example with a stable CFRP sleeve, in order to guarantee the necessary stiffness. The suspension is solid, important components such as the engine and the servos are already installed on the factory.

Advantages of material selection:

• High repairability
• Low weight, robust against break
• Good cushioning during landings and flight

Flight times and energy efficiency

The possible flight times are among the highlights of this sailor. With a 3S-LiPo battery of 3200 to 4000 mAh, depending on the thermal and flight style, there are easily 40 minutes to over an hour. Many users report that they reach even longer phases of flight when they are using the engine as a sparing and skillful thermal flight.

Tip: Thanks to the energy-saving properties and the low resistance profile, the model offers especially beginners a safe, long first flight.

Increased power and engine power

The 1250 kV brushless engine installed in combination with the 11x8 folding propeller ensures excellent climbing performance. According to user reports, full gas is sufficient a few seconds to generate sufficient height for long sliding phases. Motorization is powerful, yet efficient.

Transportability and everyday suitability

The support surfaces can be quickly removed and reassembled without tools. This considerably facilitates transport to the airfield. The model takes only little space apart and can be transported comfortably in the trunk of a medium-sized vehicle.

Spare parts supply and accessories

A great advantage of the product is the very good availability of spare parts. Support surfaces, servos, motors, regulators, propellers and the fuselage can be bought individually. Many dealers offer corresponding sets. For optimisers there are also tuning parts, such as significantly lighter spiders or stronger servos.

Target group: Who is the model suitable for?

The Radian XL 2.6M is suitable for ambitious beginners as well as advanced players. Beginners benefit from the good-natured flight characteristics and stable flight behavior. For experienced pilots, this model opens up the world of relaxed thermal flight and gentle gliding – the Radian XL also use competitors for training.

Construction time and quality of the guide

The assembly goes quickly. Since the model is delivered in the PNP version (Plug & Play), components such as motor, controllers and servos are already installed. This saves time and ensures that newcomers also get into the air quickly with little experience. The guide is considered comprehensive, clearly illustrated and also understandable for non-mother speakers.

Community support and exchange opportunities

The popularity of the model is also reflected in the lively exchange in forums, Facebook groups and YouTube. There users find everything from flight videos to construction tutorials, to problems and solutions. The community is helpful and there are numerous groups especially for e-flite models.

Alternative models of other manufacturers

The market offers various alternatives that can be compared with the Radian XL:

1. Multiplex Heron

   • Tension: 2.400 mm
   • Similar flying properties, very good thermal performance
   • Known for high material quality (Elapor)

2. Horizon Hobby Conscendo Evolution

   • Tension width: 1,500 mm
   • Clearly compact, sporty designed
   • More affordable, but less typical

3. Robbe Arcus

   • Tension width: 2,000 mm
   • Very robust, cheap spare parts supply
   • Less designed for pure thermal flight

4. FMS ASW-17

   • Tension: 2,500 mm
   • true-scale aircraft, but more complex assembly
   • Especially attractive for advanced pilots

Conclusion: The E-flite Radian XL stands out in particular due to its wide range, ease of use and immediate willingness to use. If you are looking for an entry into the large-scale electric sailing flight, there is a very good choice here.

Value for money

For the bid, the value for money is very good. Although the purchase price is slightly higher than in compact models, the size, flight characteristics, processing quality and spare parts availability justify the investment. Many users think the model is worth every cent.

Tips, tricks, recommendations and optimizations

If you want to get the maximum out of your large sailor, it is worth noting the following recommendations:

Flight preparation and setup

• Focus on measuring: An exact focus is on better sliding flights, less thermal loss and safe straight trip.
• Adjust your stops: For beginners it is recommended to reduce the rudder knocks somewhat and work with Expo to keep the model quieter.
• Check the steering: Before each flight, all attachments and attachments to the surfaces should be controlled.

Battery selection and flight time optimization

• Use high quality 3S-LiPo batteries with 3200 to 4000 mAh.
• The battery can be positioned precisely by means of a foam wedge in order to achieve the optimum center of gravity.
• If you want longer flight times, you should pay attention to minimizing the engine use – short climbs, then slide off and use thermal.

Improvements and upgrades

• Stronger servos: For ambitious pilots, the change to stronger 12g-Servos, especially for high and cross-spins.
• Cooling: Whoever flies a lot with motor can retrofit small air outlets in the fuselage so that the electronics are cooled better.
• Propeller tuning: A slightly larger (e.g. 12x8) propeller can further improve the gradient – note Here, the load limits of the motor and controller.

Flight style

• Take advantage of slope winds and thermals!
• Low use of motors and predictive flight planning extend the flight time enormously.
• The wide range also allows quiet, slow overtimes – ideal for photographs from the air.

What is the interest of buyers?

Compatibility with remote controls

The model requires at least one 5-channel remote control. For best results, sparks with programmable flight phases and Expo settings are recommended.

Maintenance and care instructions

• After each flight model check for cracks or loose components.
• Check electronics and plugs on fixed seat.
• Carefully clean the truncated surfaces and hull with a slightly damp cloth if required.

Enlargement

• Use of telemetry sensors (e.g. for battery or engine temperature)
• Retrofitting of lighting for dusk flights
• Camera mounts for spectacular aerial photographs

Frequent Questions and Problems – Solutions & Answers

1. How do I focus on the right?

Answer:
Manufacturer recommends approx. 73 to 80 mm from front edge of the wing. The center of gravity can be adjusted exactly by moving the battery. Always check by hand before the first flight!

Two. Why is it difficult to mount the supporting surface?

Answer:
cleanly align surfaces, pay attention to possible burrs and work gently if necessary. A drop of silicone spray helps with the first assembly.

3. Which batteries are optimal?

Answer:
3S-LiPo with 3200–4000 mAh, at least 30C loadability recommended. Attention: Batteries with too large height may not fit.

4. How do I get longer flight times?

Answer:
Thermik specifically search, minimise engine running, fly controlled and no hectic control maneuvers.

Five. What to do with damage to the EPO foam?

Answer:
Repairs can be carried out quickly with special foam adhesive (e.g. UHU POR) or second glue (suitable for foam). Insert a carbon fiber rod for reinforcement if necessary.

6. Is the guide also suitable for beginners?

Answer:
The guide is clear and understandable, many pictures help build. Terms are explained. The model is the first major model after successful entry.

7. Which spare parts are especially required?

Answer:
Propellers, spiders, surface closures and servos are often required. These are in stock with most specialist dealers.

8. How does the model react with wind?

Answer:
Light to moderate wind is not a problem. With strong wind, the model can become a little “double” due to the large areas. Flight experience of advantage.

9. What to do with electronics problems?

Answer:
Before the flight check all plugs, connections and the BEC of the controller. In case of conspicuousness, contact the trader – often the community continues to help.

10. How do I get in touch with other pilots?

Answer:
Local model airlines, online forums and social networks are ideal points of contact. There are many tips, meetings and sharing experiences.

Conclusion and recommendation

If you are looking for an electric sailplane with great fun potential, appealing optics and solid technology, the E-flite Radian XL 2.6M PNP (EFL5575) is well advised. Whether for entry into the mainsail flight, as a second model for relaxed weekends or for the ambitious Thermikjäger – this aircraft meets many wishes. The sophisticated design, fast setup, excellent flight characteristics and broad community support make the model one of the most popular representatives of its class.

Our tip: Now look for the next thermal system, charge battery and experience the dream of the big glide!

Short summary for Eilige

• Immediately ready for use, good-natured flight characteristics
• Very good spare parts supply and community
• Oversightable setup time (30–60 minutes)
• Also suitable for beginners
• Long flight times and impressive climbing performance

With this information you are perfectly prepared to make a sound decision for your next sailor!