E-flite Twin Timber 1.6m BNF Basic: The ultimate multi-function double-motor aircraft

E-flite's remote-controlled double-engine aircraft has established itself as one of the most versatile RC aircraft on the market. With its impressive features and reliable flight behavior, the Twin Timber 1.6m model is an attractive choice for pilots of different levels of experience. In this comprehensive article, we illuminate all aspects of this exceptional RC aircraft that sets new standards with its AS3X and SAFE select technology.

Technical specifications and data

The double-engine model impresses with sophisticated technical features that offer both beginners and experienced pilots an optimal flight experience:

The technical data show that the Twin Timber model is compatible with a wide range of LiPo batteries, allowing flexibility in flight operation. The clearly defined center of gravity of 92mm behind the wing front edge (with a tolerance of ±7mm) ensures optimal flight properties.

Quality and processing

Material quality

The E-flite double engine model convinces with high-quality materials that offer both longevity and low weight. The construction of reinforced foam allows robust handling while at the same time good flying properties. Especially the reinforcements at critical points such as wing attachment and suspension show the well-thought construction.

Pilots report remarkable stability even in adverse weather conditions. The surfaces are carefully processed and the painting is detailed and resistant to everyday use. The materials used offer a good compromise between weight and stability, which is crucial for a model of this size.

Electronic components

The pre-installed electronic components in the BNF Basic model are precisely installed and ensure reliable performance. The cabling is neatly laid and the servos react precisely to control inputs. The engines provide sufficient power for different flight maneuvers and the ESCs (Electronic Speed Controller) operate efficiently with different battery configurations.

Flight characteristics and performance

Flight times

The flight time of the double engine model varies depending on the battery used and flight style. With the recommended battery (3S or 4S, 3200-4000mAh), pilots can typically expect the following flight times:

• Normal flight (mixed maneuvers): 10-15 minutes
• Saving flight (mainly gliding): up to 20 minutes
• Intensive flight (frequent acceleration, climbing): 7-10 minutes

These values offer a good orientation, but can vary depending on individual conditions and flight style. The possibility to use different battery sizes allows an adaptation to personal preferences between flight duration and performance.

Increased power

The Twin Timber double engine configuration ensures impressive climbing performance, especially with 4S batteries. Pilots report on almost vertical climbs in full gas, which predestines the model for dynamic flight maneuvers.

The rise rate is impressive and allows quick reaching of altitudes, which is particularly advantageous with limited space. Even with additional payload, the model maintains a strong rise, which underlines its versatility.

AS3X and SAFE Select Technology

An outstanding feature of the E-flite Twin Timber 1.6m BNF Basic is the integrated AS3X and SAFE Select technology. AS3X (Artificial Stabilization - 3-Axis) reduces the impact of wind and turbulence, resulting in smoother flight behavior. SAFE Select offers additional stabilization for beginners and can be activated or disabled as required.

These technologies make the model particularly beginner-friendly without restricting advanced pilots. The stabilisation systems can be customized so that pilots can design their flight experience as personal preferences.

User-friendly

Construction and preparation

The BNF Basic model comes partially preassembled, which considerably simplifies assembly. Most pilots report about an assembly time of about 1-2 hours, depending on the individual experience. The included guide is well structured and contains detailed illustrations that facilitate the process.

The horizontal guide mechanism halves are fastened with two cutting screws M 2.5×12 mm, which can easily be achieved with a commercially available Phillips screwdriver. The instructions provide clear indications of the focus setting and correct installation of the batteries.

Transport capacity

With a span of 1.6 meters, the Twin Timber model is larger than many other RC aircraft, but still offers good transport options. The construction allows a partial disassembly for transport, whereby the removal of the wings significantly reduces the space requirement.

Many users have purchased special transport bags or cases for their model, which further simplifies safe transport. With appropriate preparation, the disassembled model fits in most middle class cars without any problems.

Target group and application areas

The E-flite double-engine flyer addresses a wide audience:

• Advanced Beginners: Thanks to the SAFE Select technology, pilots with limited experience can safely fly the model
• Hobbyists: The versatile flight characteristics make it an ideal all-round model
• Scale enthusiasts: The realistic appearance speaks to lovers of true scale models
• Photographers/videographers: The stable platform is ideal for mounting light cameras

The versatility of the model is reflected in the various possibilities of use - from relaxed Sunday flight to dynamic art flight maneuvers.

Customer Experiences and Community

User reviews

The Twin Timber model enjoys an excellent reputation in the RC community. Pilots especially praise:

• The extraordinary stability in flight
• The impressive engine performance
• The quality of pre-installed components
• Versatility in different flight conditions

Critical notes occasionally refer to:

• The relatively high purchase price
• The space requirement for transport and storage
• Power consumption in intensive flight maneuvers

Overall, user reviews clearly outweigh the positive aspects, which underlines the high reputation of the model in the community.

Community support

The large and active community around e-flite products and especially the Twin Timber offers extensive support for new owners. There are numerous forums, social media and video platforms:

• Detailed setup instructions
• Tips for fine adjustment and optimization
• Proposals for modifications and extensions
• Aid for technical problems

This living community is a valuable part of the overall package and offers especially newcomers important orientation.

Spare parts and support

Spare parts supply

E-flite offers a comprehensive supply of spare parts for the Twin Timber 1.6m model. Standard parts such as propellers, wheels and small parts are available at most specialist dealers in stock or at short notice. Availability is generally good for more specific components such as motors, servos or electronic components.

The long-term spare parts supply is traditionally well guaranteed by E-flite, which secures the investment in this model. In addition, numerous third-party suppliers offer compatible parts, which further increases the selection.

Manufacturer support

The technical support of Horizon Hobby (the parent company of E-flite) enjoys a good reputation in the RC community. For technical problems or warranty cases, the support usually reacts quickly and competently. Support workers have sound knowledge of the products and can effectively help with most problems.

Comparison with alternative products

E-flite Turbo Timber Evolution 1.5m

The Turbo Timber Evolution is a single-engine model with a similar design concept, but smaller size (1.5m). Compared to Twin Timber, it offers:

The Turbo Timber is a good alternative for pilots with lower budget or limited transportation, but does not offer the same performance and presence in the sky.

UMX Turbo Timber Evolution

For pilots with limited space, the UMX Turbo Timber is an interesting alternative. This micromodel offers:

• Extremely compact design for small airfields
• Easy transport in almost any vehicle
• Lower acquisition and operating costs
• Compatibility with smaller 300 mAh 3S 11.1V batteries

However, the significantly reduced size is accompanied by limitations in wind suitability and visibility, which limits the range of use.

Competitive products

In the larger dual-motorRC aircraft segment, there are some alternatives from other manufacturers, but they usually remain behind the E-flite Twin Timber in specific aspects:

• Less integration of stabilisation systems
• Less robust design
• Restricted spare part supply
• Smaller Community for Support and Experience Sharing

The balanced overall package of the Twin Timber model is an essential reason for its popularity and justifies the somewhat higher price for many pilots.

Value for money

The E-flite Twin Timber 1.6m BNF Basic is located in the upper price segment for RC aircraft of this size. However, this pricing is justified by several factors:

• High quality pre-installed components
• Advanced Stabilisation Technology (AS3X and SAFE Select)
• Robust design for long-term use
• Extensive spare parts availability
• Strong community support

For beginners, the investment may initially appear high, but the longevity and versatility of the model make it an economic choice for dedicated pilots. The possibility to practice different flight styles with a single model also reduces the need for additional specialized aircraft.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Battery optimization

The battery is a decisive factor for the performance of the Twin Timber. The following optimizations have proven successful:

• Battery position: By slightly adjusting the battery position, the center of gravity can be finely tuned. Experiment within the recommended range of 92mm (±7mm) behind the wing leading edge.
• Capacity selection: For longer, quieter flights a 3S 4000-5000mAh battery is recommended. For dynamic flying with maximum performance, a 4S 3200-4000mAh is the better choice.
• Battery management: Invest in a high-quality charger with balancer function to extend the life of your batteries.

Flight optimizations

• Expo settings: Increase the Expo values on your transmitter for softer tax inputs, especially recommended for beginners.
• Dual rate: Use lower rates for precise flying and higher rates for art flight.
• SAFE Select: Activate SAFE Select for first flights and strong wind, disable it for maximum maneuverability.

Technical improvements

Experienced pilots have developed various modifications to further improve the Twin Timber model:

• Propeller upgrade: Lightly modified propellers can increase efficiency and performance.
• Servo reinforcement: High-quality servos for crossovers can improve precision in art flight maneuvers.
• Lighting: Retrofitable LED lighting systems allow dusk and night flights.
• Camera holders: Specially adapted mounts for action cameras open up new perspectives.

Frequent questions and problems

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Is the Twin Timber model suitable for absolute beginners?

Answer: Thanks to the SAFE Select technology, the model is also available for beginners, but ideally after first experience with smaller models or a flight simulator. The investment and size makes it a better choice for advanced beginners than for absolute newcomers.

Question: Which transmitter is needed?

Answer: As a BNF (Bind-N-Fly) Basic model, the Twin Timber needs a compatible spectrum transmitter. Most DSM2/DSMX-enabled transmitters of spectrum work perfectly, especially recommended are models with telemetry support.

Question: How weather-sensitive is the model?

Answer: The Twin Timber is amazingly windy for a model of its kind. Light to medium wind is not a problem. In rain, however, it should not be flown due to electronics.

Frequent problems and solutions

Problem: unstable flight behavior despite SAFE Select

Solution: Check the center of gravity (92mm ±7mm behind the wing front edge). A false focus is the most common cause of instability. In addition, all rows should be correctly centered and the deflections should be adjusted symmetrically.

Problem: Inappropriate flight time

Solution:

1. Use batteries with higher capacity in the recommended area (3200-5000mAh)
2. Reduce gas use, especially when climbing
3. Use thermal and sliding properties of the model
4. Check the engines and propellers for damage or unbalance

Problem: Engine failure during flight

Solution: The Twin Timber model offers the advantage of double-engine configuration. If a motor fails, controlled flying and landing is often still possible. Frequent causes for engine failures are:

1. Overheating through to intensive use
2. Loose cable connections
3. Overloaded or damaged ESCs

Regular maintenance and inspection of the electrical connections before each day of flight can usually prevent these problems.

Conclusion

The E-flite Twin Timber 1.6m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select combines advanced technology with excellent flight performance and offers an exceptional RC flight experience. The double-engine configuration, robust design and versatile flight characteristics make it a first-class choice for ambitious pilots.

Although the purchase price is higher than simpler models, the longevity, versatility and the fun factor justify this investment for dedicated RC enthusiasts. The impressive combination of stability for beginners and advanced agility makes this model a loyal companion that can grow with the skills of the pilot.

With its large community, good spare parts supply and numerous optimization options, the Twin Timber offers a comprehensive package that goes far beyond the actual aircraft. For pilots looking for a reliable, powerful and versatile RC aircraft, this model is a recommendation that leaves hardly any wishes.