The Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m from E-flite: A comprehensive guide for RC pilots

As an enthusiastic RC pilot, you might be looking for a versatile art flight model that offers both impressive performance and reliable flight characteristics. The model Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m BNF Basic with AS3X technology from E-flite could be exactly what you are looking for. In this detailed article, we take this PremiumRC aircraft under the look and analyze all aspects relevant to buyers.

Technical data and specifications

The E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m BNF Basic with AS3X (EFL8850) is an impressive art flight model with advanced features that appeal both beginners to the art flight and experienced pilots. Here you can find the most important technical data at a glance:

AS3X technology (Artificial Stabilization - 3-Axis) is a special feature of this model, which ensures more stable flight properties by balancing turbulence and unwanted movements.

Customer reviews and reviews

What pilots say about the Sukhoi SU-29MM

The Sukhoi SU-29MM from E-flite has experienced a positive response in the RC community. Many customers particularly praise the flight characteristics and the quality of the pre-installed components.

A recurring praise applies to AS3X technology, which ensures stable flight properties even in windy conditions. Pilots report that the model can be controlled very precisely and performs both simple and complex art flight maneuvers cleanly.

"The reaction to tax inputs is immediate and precise. Even with wind, the aircraft remains stable and predictable," reports an experienced pilot of art.

The robustness of the model is also particularly appreciated. Several users report that the Sukhoi also has smaller crashes without significant damage, which is particularly important for pilots who still develop their art skills.

Critical points and limitations

Despite the most positive reviews, there are also some critical comments:

• Some users report a slightly shorter flight time than expected, especially in intensive art flight
• The price is occasionally perceived as high, although most customers rated the overall price-performance ratio as good
• Separate reports on problems with servos after intensive use

An experienced RC pilot summarizes: "The Sukhoi is not an entry-level model, but for those who already have experience and want to enter the challenging art flight, it is an excellent aircraft."

Test reports and performance analysis

Flight properties in detail

In extensive tests, the E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m shows its strengths especially in the field of art flight. The combination of lightweight but solid construction and the powerful brushless motor allows impressive art flight maneuvers:

• Precise roles and loopings
• Stable knife flights
• Impressive Torquing maneuver
• Reliable snap rolls

The climbing performance is remarkable - with a fully charged 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery, the model reaches considerable heights in seconds. The recommended motor provides sufficient force for vertical climbing flights, which is particularly important for art flight enthusiasts.

Material quality and processing

The material quality of the Sukhoi SU-29MM is consistently high quality. The hull consists of sturdy, but light EPO foam with strategically placed reinforcements at particularly loaded locations. The surface treatment is clean and the noticeable painting is not only visually appealing, but also durable.

The pre-installed components such as motor, ESC and servos are of good quality and are specially selected for the requirements of the art flight. The cabling is cleanly laid and well secured - a sign for careful assembly from work.

Flight times and battery management

With the recommended 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery, the Sukhoi SU-29MM reaches flight times from:

• 6-8 minutes with intense art flight
• Up to 10 minutes with moderate flight style

Intelligent battery management is particularly important in this model. Since the engine often runs under full load in art flight maneuvers, experienced pilots recommend that the battery never be completely emptied and set a timer that takes into account about 20% reserve.

Practical aspects for owners

Transport and storage

The transportability of the Sukhoi SU-29MM is well thought out. With a span of 1.1 meters, the model is compact enough to find space in most trunks. The support surfaces can be removed for transport, which further reduces the space requirement.

For storage, users recommend special aircraft bags or cases that provide additional protection. The distinctive painting of the Sukhoi makes it visible not only in the sky, but also more susceptible to visible scratches and wear phenomena, which is why a protected storage is useful.

Spare parts supply

The spare part supply for the E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m BNF Basic with AS3X is well organized. As a product of an established manufacturer, all essential components are available as spare parts:

• Bearings and guides
• Engine and controller
• Servos and linkages
• Small parts like spider and propeller

Users particularly positively evaluate that many standard components are used, which are also used in other models and are therefore readily available. Most larger RC dealers carry spare parts for e-flite models or can order them at short notice.

Target group and application areas

The E-flite Sukhoi is primarily aimed at advanced RC pilots who have already gained experience with motor flight models and now want to get deeper into the art flight. Due to the AS3X stabilization technology, the model is comparatively good-natured, but nevertheless requires solid basic knowledge in the RC flight.

Ideal users are:

• Advanced RC pilots with interest in art flight
• Experienced pilots looking for a reliable training model for 3D maneuvers
• Passengers who need a versatile and robust model for regular flight days

The Sukhoi is less suitable for absolute beginners or pilots who are mainly interested in slow flight or sailing flight.

Assembly and commissioning

Construction and preparation

A great advantage of the E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m BNF Basic is its low installation requirement. As BNF (Bind-and-Fly) model, all essential components are already installed. The assembly is limited to:

1. Mounting of the supporting surfaces on the fuselage
2. Attaching the height control unit
3. Installation of the propeller
4. Installation of the battery (not included)
5. Binding the receiver with the transmitter

Experienced pilots report that the assembly is completed in about 30-45 minutes. The included instructions are generally described as clear and comprehensible, with helpful illustrations and step-by-step instructions.

Users particularly positively evaluate the preset rudder deflections and center of gravity markings, which enable quick commissioning without having to perform long adjustment work.

Community support and resources

The Sukhoi SU-29MM benefits from an active community of e-flite enthusiasts. In numerous forums, YouTube channels and social media, valuable resources can be found:

• Detailed video tutorials on settings and flight maneuvers
• Discussion groups for tips and problem solutions
• Setups for advanced art flight maneuver

Particular emphasis should be given to the detailed instructions for optimal adjustment of AS3X technology, which are shared by experienced pilots. These community resources complement the official documents of the manufacturer and provide practical insights from the first hand.

Compared to competitors

Overview of alternative art flight models

Anyone interested in the E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM should also take a look at similar models to make a sound purchasing decision:

In a direct comparison, the Sukhoi is distinguished by its balanced balance of performance, stability and comparatively good-natured flight behavior. The AS3X technology offers a remarkable advantage over models without electronic stabilization, especially with alternating wind conditions.

Value for money

With a price in the middle to top segment, the E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m is positioned as a quality product. The investment is justified by:

• High quality pre-installed components
• Advanced AS3X Stabilization
• Excellent art flight properties
• Good spare parts supply
• Longevity of construction

While there are cheaper alternatives, many pilots report that the initial investment in the Sukhoi pays off in the long term, as fewer repairs are incurred and the flight experience convinces.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Performance optimization

Experienced pilots have discovered various ways to further improve the performance of the Sukhoi SU-29MM:

Battery optimisation:

• Use of 3S 2200-2600mAh LiPos with high C rate (at least 30C) for best performance
• Experiment with the focus on different battery positions

Drive improvements:

• Upgrade to a more powerful propeller for more push at art flight maneuver
• Optimum cooling of the engine by additional air inlets for longer flight times

Control refinement:

• fine tuning of the Expo settings for more precise control
• Adjustment of AS3X reinforcement for personal preferences

Common modifications

Many owners take some adjustments to their Sukhoi over time:

1. Installation of LED lighting for better visibility and night flights
2. Upgrade to more powerful servos for even more precise rudder deflections
3. Reinforcement of particularly stressed areas with carbon fiber strips
4. Installation of an FPV camera for immersive flight experience

These modifications are not necessary, but can further personalize and improve the flight experience.

Frequent questions and problems

Questions from interested parties and users

Question: Is the Sukhoi SU-29MM suitable for beginners?

Answer: Although AS3X technology ensures stability, Sukhoi is primarily designed for advanced pilots. Beginners should first gain experiences with a more good-natured training model.

Question: Which stations do I need for the BNF model?

Answer: You need a spectrum of DSM2/DSMX compatible transmitters. Particularly recommended are transmitters with at least 6 channels to use all functions.

Question: How long does it take to recharge the battery?

Answer: With a modern balancer charger, charging a 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery takes about 1-1.5 hours. Using multiple batteries is recommended for longer flight sessions.

Typical problems and solutions

Problem: Undesired rocking or oscillating in flight

Solution: This usually indicates excessive AS3X amplification values. Reduce backup in small steps until the flight behavior becomes calmer.

Problem: Shorter flight times than expected

Solution:

• Check The C rate of your battery - higher C rates improve performance
• Pay attention to efficient flight style (less full gas phases)
• Check engine and regulator for overheating that can lead to increased power consumption

Problem: Difficulties in precise art flight maneuvers

Solution:

• Check the focus and adjust it if necessary
• Make sure all rows are free of play and correctly aligned
• Experiment with different dual rate and Expo settings for your flight style

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The E-flite Sukhoi SU-29MM 1.1m BNF Basic with AS3X technology is an impressive art flight model that convinces both by its flight characteristics and its processing quality. Especially the combination of powerful drive, precise control and stabilizing AS3X technology makes this model an excellent choice for ambitious RC pilots.

Although the purchase price is in the raised segment, the quality of the installed components, the excellent flight characteristics and the good spare parts supply justify this investment. Especially for pilots who want to seriously enter the art flight or deepen their skills, this model offers a convincing overall package.

E-flite’s Sukhoi is not a starter machine, but a model for ambitious pilots who value precision, performance and reliability. Those who are willing to invest the time to fully exploit the possibilities of this plane will be rewarded with an exceptional flight experience.