The ultimate guide: E-flite Turbo Timber Evolution 1.5m BNF Basic with floats

In the world of remote-controlled aircraft, the E-flite Timber series has made an excellent name. The Turbo Timber Evolution 1.5m BNF Basic model with swimmers stands out as a versatile and powerful RC aircraft. Whether you are a beginner who wants to gather his first experiences in the air, or an experienced pilot looking for a reliable all-rounder – this model offers exceptional features that make it one of the most popular in its class. In this comprehensive article we illuminate all the details of the E-flite Timber model and give you valuable insights that will help you in your purchase decision.

Technical data and specifications

The Turbo Timber Evolution convinces with its sophisticated design and high-quality technical equipment. Here is a clear summary of the main technical data:

The model impresses with its advanced features, in particular the integration of the Avian 70A Smart Lite ESC spectrum, which not only ensures sufficient performance, but also provides telemetry data in real time. The SAFE Select technology also makes it possible to customize the degree of flight protection, which is particularly advantageous for beginners.

Customer experiences and reviews

The E-flite Turbo Timber series enjoys an excellent reputation in the RC aviation community. Pilots of all levels of experience appreciate the versatility and reliability of this model.

What customers particularly appreciate:

• Excellent flying properties: Many users report on a stable and yet agile flight behaviour that provides both beginners and advanced pleasure.

• Versatile by swimmers: The floats included in the scope of delivery extend considerably. Numerous reports from enthusiastic pilots confirm the excellent behaviour both in water starts and in landings.

• SAFE technology: Especially beginners praise the SAFE-Select function, which allows them to gain first experiences with activated flight support and gradually reduce them when their own skills increase.

• Robust design: Despite the relatively low weight, users describe the model as amazingly resistant to minor accidents – an important aspect especially for beginners.

The majority of the feedback shows a high satisfaction with the price-performance ratio of this model, with the combination of quality, flight performance and included extras (such as swimmers) being particularly highlighted.

Test results and flight performance

In numerous tests, the Turbo Timber Evolution proved its strengths. The flight properties are impressive with a good mix of stability and agility.

Increased power

With the built-in Brushless motor (800kV) and the three-wing 11x7,5 air screw, the model shows an impressive climbing performance. When using a recommended 4S-LiPo battery with 3200mAh capacity, steep climbing flights are easily possible. Testers report on almost vertical climbing flights, which highlights the potential for 3D maneuvers and STOL operations (Short Take-Off and Landing).

Flight times

The flight time depends significantly on the battery used and the flight style. In normal flight mode, flight times of 8-12 minutes can be reached with a 4S 3200mAh battery. With predominantly throttled flight, longer flight times are also possible. The flight time can be optimized individually by the compatibility with different battery sizes.

Handling

The model convinces with its good-natured flight behavior, which remains stable even in wind thanks to AS3X technology. At the same time, it offers enough agility for advanced maneuvers. The wide range of 1.55 meters provides a calm flight picture and good visibility in the sky.

Material quality and design

The Turbo Timber Evolution is in a Sport Wood Series (SWS), which is a good balance between weight, stability and costs. The design combines traditional wood elements with modern materials:

• hull and wings: Mainly made from stable but light wood
• Reinforcements: Strengthened with carbon fibre at particularly stressed areas
• Surfaces: High quality film adhesive with realistic details

The quality of the components and connections is high throughout, which is reflected in the longevity of the model. The robust design of the suspension, which also forgives a little rough landings, is particularly important.

Transportability and Storage

With a range of 1.55 meters, the Turbo Timber Evolution is not the most compact model on the market. Nevertheless, it offers some transport-friendly properties:

• The support surfaces can be removed for transport
• The height guide is removable
• With removed components, the model fits into many medium-sized cars

For storage, a dry room with constant temperature is recommended in order to avoid distortion of the wood parts. The supplied swimmers can be stored separately if they are not needed, which saves additional space.

Spare parts supply and support

A decisive advantage of E-flite products is the excellent spare parts supply. As part of the Horizon Hobby Group, the Turbo Timber series benefits from a well-developed dealer network and reliable availability of spare parts.

Among the most requested spare parts are:

• Propeller
• Chassis components
• Servos
• Small parts such as rudder horns and distractions

The Horizon Hobby Website also offers extensive documentation, explosion drawings and detailed spare parts lists that facilitate the identification and ordering of components.

Target group and entry barriers

The Turbo Timber Evolution is aimed at a broad target group of RC pilots:

For beginners:

• Thanks to SAFE technology well suited for beginners
• Stable flight behavior forgives minor errors
• Configurable flight support allows gradual learning

For advanced:

• Sufficient performance for demanding maneuvers
• Good aerobic capabilities with deactivated SAFE
• Versatility through land and water operations

For experienced pilots:

• Popular as a reliable all-round model
• Good second model for relaxed flying
• Potential for modifications and tuning

The entry barriers are relatively low, since the model is offered as a BNF (Bind-and-Fly) Basic version, in which only a compatible transmitter, battery and charger are additionally required.

Assembly and assembly

The assembly of the Turbo Timber Evolution is relatively simple thanks to the BNF configuration and can also be managed by beginners.

Time required:

• Basic assembly: approx. 1-2 hours
• With installation of the float: approx. 2-3 hours

Instruction and documentation:

The included instructions are detailed and well illustrated. It leads through assembly step by step and contains important information:

• Installation of the supporting surfaces and guides
• Installation of the optional floats
• adjustment of servos and rudder stops
• Priority determination
• Binding procedure with the transmitter

The installation of the floats is also well documented and requires only a few additional steps. The guide contains detailed information on the correct positioning of the struts and for secure attachment to the fuselage.

Community support and online resources

The E-flite Timber series has created an active and helpful community that provides valuable support for new and existing users:

• Forums: Numerous RC forums have their own threads and areas for Timber pilots
• Video tutorials: On platforms such as YouTube you will find extensive instructions on how to build, settings and flight practice
• Facebook groups: Specialized groups enable direct exchange with other pilots
• Horizon Hobby Support: The manufacturer itself offers extensive support resources

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

Alternative models and competition comparison

The RC aircraft market offers a range of alternatives to the Turbo Timber Evolution that might be relevant to buyers:

FMS Ranger 1800mm

• Benefits: Larger span (1,8m), similar concept
• Disadvantages: Less sophisticated electronics, no comparable SAFE system

HobbyZone Carbon Cub S+ 1.3m

• Benefits: SAFE technology, entry-level
• Disadvantages: Low span, less powerful motor

XK DHC-2

• Benefits: Cheap price, similar design
• Disadvantages: Low quality, less robust construction

In a direct comparison, the Turbo Timber Evolution is positioned in the upper midfield with regard to price and performance. The combination of quality, advanced electronics and included extras such as floats makes it an attractive choice, even if the purchase price is slightly higher than some alternatives.

Value for money

With a price in the middle to upper segment for RC aircraft of this size class, the question is about the price-performance ratio. The following factors play a role:

Factors increasing value:

• Includes float (a often expensive accessory)
• High-quality spectrum electronics with telemetry
• SAFE and AS3X technology
• LED lighting already integrated
• Durable construction

Cost aspects:

• Higher purchase price compared to starter models
• Additional investment in compatible transmitters, battery and charger necessary

In the overall view, the Turbo Timber Evolution offers a very good price-performance ratio, especially when considering the longevity and versatility of the model. The initial investment may appear high for starters, but the long term of use and the "joining" of the model with the pilot skills justify the price.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Flight optimizations:

• Priority adjustment: Experiment with the focus on different flight styles. A slightly head-loaded setting increases stability, while a cock-loaded position improves agility.
• Dual rate settings: Use your transmitter's dual rate function to program different sizes – smaller for precise flights, larger for art flight.
• Expo settings: 25-30% Expo on transversal and vertical rudder improves the precision around neutral position without reducing the maximum deflections.

Performance optimization:

• Rechargeable light: 4S batteries with 3200-4000mAh and high C rate (30C+) are recommended for maximum performance.
• Propeller alternatives: A 12x8 2-sheet propeller can provide more thrust, while an 11x8,5 3-sheet propeller offers a good compromise between thrust and scale optics.
• Cooling improvement: Enlarge the air inlets easily if needed to improve the cooling of the engine and regulator at high outside temperatures.

Structural improvements:

• Suspension reinforcement: In the case of frequent start-ups of uneven surfaces, an additional amplification of the suspension mount can be useful.
• Secure servo connections: Secure the servo plugs at the receiver with a drop of silicone adhesive or special plug fuses against vibrations.
• Floating mount: Pay attention to the exact alignment of the floats – a light V shape increases the stability on the water.

Frequent questions and solutions

Problem area: electronics and binding

Question: My Turbo Timber does not react to the transmitter after binding. What can I do?
Solution: First check the binding procedure according to instructions. Make sure that the receiver and the transmitter work on the same protocol (DSMX/DSM2). Also check the servo plugs at the receiver for correct seat and correct polarity.

Question: The LED lighting does not work. How do I fix the problem?
Solution: Check the connection between the LED controller and the receiver. Usually a loose plug or a defective connection is the cause. Also check the configuration of your transmitter – the LED control is often assigned to a specific channel.

Problem area: Flight properties

Question: My Turbo Timber tends to tilt when starting water. What's that about?
Solution: The most common causes are incorrectly aligned floats or unequal weight distribution. Make sure that both floats are mounted equally high and the focus is correct. Even too high speed when running water can lead to tilting – start with moderate engine power and increase it only when the model runs stable.

Question: The model is difficult to control and reacts oversensitively. What can I do?
Solution: First check if SAFE Select is activated – for beginners, flying can be difficult without this support. Reduce the outputs via Dual Council and increase the Expo values. Also check the focus that ensures more stability in a head-loaded model.

Problem area: Mechanical problems

Question: The support surfaces are shaking despite firm screwing. How can I fix that?
Solution: Check the bearing surfaces between hull and supporting surface for damage or wear. A thin piece of foam or moss rubber between the contact surfaces can eliminate play. Make sure that the screws are not overturned because this can damage the thread.

Question: After a hard landing, the motor runs unround or vibrates strongly. What's to do?
Solution: Demonstrate the propeller and the spider and check the motor shaft for bending. A damaged propeller can also cause strong vibrations. Also check the engine mount on loose screws or cracks in the engine mount.

Conclusion: Is the Turbo Timber Evolution the right choice?

The E-flite Turbo Timber Evolution 1.5m BNF Basic with floats is an exceptionally versatile RC aircraft that is attractive for beginners and experienced pilots. The combination of state-of-the-art electronics, high-quality processing and the ability to operate both on land and on water makes it an excellent all-rounder.

The SAFE technology, which makes it easier for beginners to enter, as well as the robust design, which also forgives smaller errors. The supplied swimmers significantly expand the possibilities of use and represent considerable added value.

Who is this model particularly suitable for?

• Beginners with ambitionswho do not want to change to a more demanding model after a short time
• Advanced pilotsSeeking a reliable and versatile model for different application scenarios
• Pilots with access to waterto experience the additional dimension of water flying

The price-performance ratio is to be assessed as good to very good, given the quality and equipment offered. The investment in this model is due to longevity and versatility.

The Turbo Timber Evolution is therefore an excellent choice for all those who are looking for a high-quality, versatile and future-proof RC aircraft, which can provide both beginners with pleasure and with the growing skills of the pilot.